SME ASSOCIATION OF ZIMBABWE TERMS OF REFERENCE

Transcription

1 SME ASSOCIATION OF ZIMBABWE TERMS OF REFERENCE

2 Table of Contents Executive Summary... 5 Guiding Principles... 6 General Procedures... 8 Meetings... 8 Quorum... 8 Notice... 8 Resolutions... 9 Minutes... 9 Reporting... 9 Powers of the Executive Committee... 9 Powers of sub-committees... 9 Performance Evaluation Audit Committee Purpose Short-term objectives (one year) Composition Authority and responsibilities Capital Markets Committee Purpose Short-term objectives (one year) Composition Authority and responsibilities Decentralisation Committee Purpose Short-term objectives (one year) Composition Authority and responsibilities Environmental Committee Purpose Short-term objectives (one year) Composition Authority and responsibilities Executive Committee... 17

3 Purpose Short-term objectives (one year) Composition Authority and responsibilities Finance Committee Purpose Short-term objectives (one year) Composition Authority and responsibilities Fund-Raising Committee Purpose Short-term objectives (one year) Composition Authority and responsibilities Human Resources Committee Purpose Short-term objectives (one year) Composition Authority and responsibilities Infrastructure Committee Purpose Short-term objectives (one year) Composition Authority and responsibilities Lobbying & Advocacy Committee Purpose Short-term objectives (one year) Composition Authority and responsibilities Markets Development Committee Purpose Short-term objectives (one year) Composition Authority and responsibilities... 26

4 Media & Communications Committee Purpose Short-term objectives (one year) Composition Authority and responsibilities Membership Committee Purpose Short-term objectives (one year) Composition Authority and responsibilities Research & Development Committee Purpose Short-term objectives (one year) Composition Authority and responsibilities Training & Development Committee Purpose Short-term objectives (one year) Composition Authority and responsibilities... 30

5 Executive Summary The Terms of Reference are meant to act both as an enabling instrument for the function of the various sub-committees of the SME Association of Zimbabwe, as well as a strategic guideline on their activities. While there may be references to the duties of the Executive Committee, these are merely guidelines, as the duties and responsibilities of the Executive Committee are spelt out in the Association s Constitution. The SME Association of Zimbabwe aims to be a leading light within the SME realm both in terms of its own conduct, as well as in that of its members. It shall therefore strive to attain world-class standards in all its operations. Best practice shall be the norm, as it is important that the Association lead by example. Terms of reference for each sub-committee will give the strategic purpose for that committee, then short term objectives to be met within the year. The composition of the sub-committee is then given, followed by the authorities and responsibilities. While these terms of reference are not intended to be a strait-jacket, and creative input into all aspects is encouraged, they are nevertheless meant to act as a framework, outside of which members are not expected to act without prior consultation and approval by the Executive Committee.

6 Guiding Principles Specific procedures and mandates are outlined in the terms of reference contained herein, but the operations of the sub-committees and the Executive Committee shall be guided by the following guiding principles: 1. Honesty and integrity Above all else, the operations of the Association must be conducted in a manner that reflects honesty and integrity, and seeks the greater good of the members first and foremost. Dishonesty and a lack of integrity shall not be tolerated at any level. 2. Transparency All dealings that are directly or indirectly associated with the Association must be done transparently. Where there is a potential for conflict of interest, all members are compelled to disclose such potential conflict, and the onus shall be on them to do so. Related party transactions and transactions that result in a direct or indirect benefit to any member must similarly be disclosed. 3. Impartiality and fairness Committee members shall exercise their duties with impartiality and fairness towards all members. This shall be particularly relevant with regards to allocation of resources and benefits. No preferential treatment shall be given to any parties, and in particular, Committee members shall not put themselves ahead of members in such allocations. 4. Servant leadership Members serving the Association in any capacity should demonstrate the characteristics of servant-leaders. The Association seeks primarily to serve its members, and therefore service should take precedence over any other consideration. 5. Professionalism All affairs of the Association shall be conducted professionally, and in a way that maintains and promotes a good standing and image. All members shall strive to ensure that the Association only renders world-class service. 6. Thought leadership Committee members shall strive to ensure that the Association and its members remain at the forefront of promoting and adopting international best practice. The Association shall actively encourage innovation both with respect to how it is run, and how members do

7 business. 7. Best practice Consistent with our aim to inculcate best practices within the SME sector to grow them into world-class corporations, the SME Association of Zimbabwe shall incorporate best practice in all its activities. This shall include the cultivation of a world-class culture, brand and image. 8. Separation of authority and duties There shall be put in place adequate separation of duties between the sub-committees and the Executive Committee in order to ensure that every committee is accountable to another committee, and all committees are ultimately accountable to the members.

8 General Procedures The following general procedures shall apply to the Executive Committee and all sub-committees whose terms of reference are detailed below: Meetings Executive Committee and sub-committee meetings shall be held not less than once a month, and not more than four times a month. It shall be up to the Chairperson of each committee or subcommittee, in consultation with the Association s Chairperson, to decide on the frequency of meetings. Such frequency shall be subject to change as determined by the number of issues that need to be dealt with, and the time deemed reasonable to allow meaningful progress to occur prior to the next meeting being convened. Quorum An Executive Committee meeting shall be deemed to be duly constituted if at least 50% of the Executive Committee members are present. A sub-committee meeting shall be deemed to be duly constituted if at least two members are present including the Chairperson of the sub-committee, or three members, in the absence of the Chairperson. Where the Chairperson is not present, a person delegated the responsibility of chairing the meeting by the committee or sub-committee s Chairperson, or by the Association s Chairperson shall act as chairperson. Notice Executive Committee and sub-committee meetings shall be convened either through the operation of a standing notice (e.g. once every week on a Monday ), or by the giving of seven days notice by the committee or sub-committee s Chairperson. In the event of an emergency meeting being required, the notice requirement may be waivered provided all members of the committee or sub-committee in question are notified of the emergency meeting, and a quorum is achieved. Agenda An agenda detailing issues to be discussed shall be circulated to members of the Committee or subcommittee at least 24 hours ahead of the meeting. Issues outside of the circulated agenda may be discussed provided: all members present at the meeting are agreeable

9 issues introduced are not of such an important nature that the absence of other members becomes material no resolutions that bind the Association contractually or financially may come out of such impromptu additions to the agenda. Resolutions Resolutions of the Executive Committee and sub-committees shall be adopted by a majority vote of members present. In the event of a tie, the Chairperson shall have a casting vote. All resolutions of sub-committees that bind the Association contractually or financially shall be subject to approval by the Executive Committee. Minutes Minutes of the Executive Committee and sub-committee meetings shall be recorded and signed by the members attending the meeting and the Secretary-General. A dissenting member may enter his objections in the minutes of the meetings. The sub-committees will keep minutes of their meetings, and these will be submitted to the Executive Committee for consideration at the next Executive Committee meeting. Reporting All sub-committees shall report to the Executive Committee through their Chairperson, who shall be a default member of the Executive Committee. Powers of the Executive Committee The Executive Committee shall exercise all powers as contained in the Association s Constitution. Powers of sub-committees Sub-committees shall derive their powers through delegation from the Executive Committee. Sub-committees shall have the authority appropriate to discharge their duties and responsibilities as contained in the terms of reference given herein. In addition, they are specifically empowered to appoint or retain external independent professionals and consultants for advising or assisting them on legal, accounting or other matters, to the extent they deem it necessary or appropriate. With the exception of the Audit Committee, this shall be done after obtaining the approval of the Executive Committee, which approval shall not unreasonably be withheld.

10 Performance Evaluation The Executive Committee and all sub-committees shall be subject to a quarterly and annual review of their performance against set targets. A performance measurement system is to be put in place by the Human Resources Committee, which shall be used to evaluate the performance of all committees. Monitoring and evaluation shall then fall under the Research and Development Committee, who shall be responsible for ensuring that this occurs consistently. Specific, measurable and achievable performance targets are to be drawn up by the Executive Committee and sub-committees. These shall be agreed to, and presented to the members in general meeting for approval. Thereafter, these performance yardsticks shall become binding, and shall form the basis for evaluation at the end of the evaluation period. The Executive Committee s performance will be evaluated by the Human Resources and Audit Committees, and presented to members in general meeting. Members shall be empowered to take action on the Executive Committee in response to such evaluations. Sub-committees performances shall be evaluated in the first instance by the Research and Development Committee, and subsequently by the Executive Committee (excluding the Chairperson of the sub-committee in question) with the assistance of the Human Resources and Audit Committees. The Executive Committee shall have the power to take remedial and/or disciplinary action on subcommittees and their members based on these performance appraisals.

11 Audit Committee Purpose To ensure that there is transparency and accountability in all of the Association s financial activities and transactions, and to safeguard the Association s assets. Short-term objectives (one year) Installation of a robust accounting and internal control environment within the Association. Composition 1. Members of this sub-committee shall be nominated by the outgoing Executive Committee not less than four weeks prior to an AGM at which elections for Executive Committee posts will be held. 2. Members of the Association in general meeting shall have the right to appoint not less than two members of this sub-committee directly in the AGM, after taking into consideration their qualifications. Such appointments shall require endorsement by a majority of members in the AGM. 3. Nominated candidates names shall be circulated to members in the notice convening the AGM, and they shall be endorsed by the members at the AGM. Where objections are raised, alternative members shall be appointed and endorsed in the AGM, or in a subsequent meeting convened for this purpose. 4. Once appointed, members of this sub-committee shall only be removed by the Association in general meeting, after the following of due process. 5. This sub-committee shall consist of not less than four (4) and not more than five members. 6. Due to the requirement for independence, members of this Committee shall not necessarily be members of the Association. 7. Members of this Committee shall be disqualified from serving in any other operational committee or sub-committee, for the avoidance of conflict of interest. 8. Appointed members of the sub-committee shall elect their Chairperson after taking into consideration the requisite qualifications. 9. The Chairperson of this sub-committee must be a person experienced in the conduct and evaluation of audits. The ideal candidate would be a Registered Public Accountant/Auditor. 10. Other members may have varying backgrounds, but should be qualified and competent enough to propose and evaluate appropriate measures relating to the accounting and internal control environment of the Association. Authority and responsibilities The sub-committee is empowered to carry out the following functions: 1. Develop a detailed plan for the achievement of this sub-committee s Purpose and short term objectives as outlined above.

12 2. Prepare a budget for the year, based on planned activity for this sub-committee, and submit to the Executive Committee 3. Create terms of reference for the external and internal auditors of the Association. 4. Constantly monitor the progress of the Association and recommend when it is necessary and appropriate to install an internal audit function within the Association. 5. Review proposed accounting and internal control systems for adequacy. 6. In collaboration with the Finance sub committee, develop accounting and internal control procedures, based on best practice and accepted industry norms, and oversee their implementation. 7. Perform half-yearly checks to ensure that accounting and internal control systems are operating as stipulated, and provide compliance report to Executive Committee with appropriate recommendations. 8. Undertake an annual strategic review of the Association s financial controls and procedures, ensuring the financial system is adhering to approved accounting standards, corporate legislation and the idenfication of areas of weakness/threats (potential or otherwise) to the integrity of the SME Association financial records. 9. Ensure approved auditors (Internal & External) have necessary access to all documents, personnel and information to undertake audits, and ensure their recommendations are implemented in timely fashion. 10. Ensure that the Association s operations remain within the bounds of its Constitution and the Law of Zimbabwe.

13 Capital Markets Committee Purpose To create a vibrant capital market environment for SMEs in Zimbabwe consisting of adequate players in the following fields: Venture capital companies Private equity companies Microfinance banks offering reasonable lending rates Investment banks with emphasis on SMEs An SME Stock Exchange Short-term objectives (one year) Lower the cost of capital for SMEs (relative to large corporations) to levels consistent with their relative risk profile. Introduce viable equity financing options for SMEs Set up an SME Stock Exchange. Composition 1. Members of this sub-committee shall be appointed by the Executive Committee members, after due consideration of their qualifications and experience. 2. The sub-committee shall consist of not less than four, and not more than five permanent members. 3. The sub-committee shall be empowered, in consultation with the Executive Committee, to co-opt specialists to provide specific guidance with regards to areas requiring technical input. 4. Members of the sub-committee shall be experienced capital markets experts. 5. There shall be at least two committee members with debt market experience, and at least two members with experience in the equity markets. Authority and responsibilities The sub-committee is empowered to carry out the following: 1. Develop a detailed plan for the achievement of this sub-committee s Purpose and short term objectives as outlined above. 2. Prepare a budget for the year, based on planned activity for this sub-committee, and submit to the Executive CommitteeCome up with creative ideas for raising funds for SMEs. 3. Research, and contact external providers of capital (debt and equity) in pursuit of the objectives of the Association. 4. In consultation with the Executive Committee, engage with the relevant authorities in pursuit of the registration of an SME Stock Exchange.

14 5. Engage debt market players (BAZ, ZAMFI) with a view to rationalizing interest rates charged to SMEs, as well as set up good working relations between them and our members. 6. Engage local and external venture capital companies with a view to increasing their level of participation in the Zimbabwean economy. 7. Encourage the formation of private equity funds in Zimbabwe. 8. Engage pension funds, insurance companies and other institutional investors with a view to encouraging them to finance SMEs. 9. Liaise with the Training & Development Committee with a view to upgrading SME capital and corporate governance structures to make them suitable candidates for investors.

15 Decentralisation Committee Purpose To encourage the formation and expansion of SMEs in areas outside of the major towns and cities, in line with the growth point strategy previously adopted by Government. This process shall also include encouraging SMEs to expand their branch network to such rural areas, or to relocate, in some cases. Short-term objectives (one year) Ensure the Association has representation in the five major cities of Zimbabwe by the end of 2012, and all major towns by the end of Composition Members of this sub-committee shall be appointed by the Executive Committee members, after due consideration of their qualifications and experience. 1. Members of this sub-committee shall be appointed by the Executive Committee members, after due consideration of their qualifications and experience. 2. The sub-committee shall consist of not less than four, and not more than five members. 3. At least one member of the sub-committee should be qualified or experienced in town planning. 4. The sub-committee shall be empowered, in consultation with the Executive Committee, to co-opt specialists to provide specific guidance with regards to areas requiring technical input. Authority and responsibilities 1. Develop a detailed plan for the achievement of this sub-committee s Purpose and short term objectives as outlined above. 2. Prepare a budget for the year, based on planned activity for this sub-committee, and submit to the Executive Committee. 3. Establish offices and chapters of the Association in centres outside of Harare. 4. Identify key competencies, natural resources or other features within the growth points which can be used as nuclei for the development of core industries, which in turn will attract other industries. The mining towns are a good example. 5. Engage with government and NGO players with similar objectives in order to create and take advantage of synergies. 6. Encourage people to develop their homelands (Operation Gadzirisa Kumusha ) and create employment there. 7. Emphasise advantages of processing and adding value to natural resources at source, particularly in the areas of mining and agriculture.

16 Environmental Committee Purpose To develop a culture of incorporating environmentally friendly business practices in SMEs. Short-term objectives (one year) Raise awareness of the impact of business activities on the environment Raise awareness of how issues such as littering, pollution and contamination affect our future. Composition 1. Members of this sub-committee shall be appointed by the Executive Committee members, after due consideration of their qualifications and experience. 2. The sub-committee shall consist of not less than four, and not more than five members. 3. The sub-committee shall, in consultation with the Executive Committee, be empowered to co-opt, or act in collaboration with other organizations that seek to encourage environmentally-friendly practices amongst businesses and in the community. Authority and responsibilities 1. Develop a detailed plan for the achievement of this sub-committee s Purpose and short term objectives as outlined above. 2. Prepare a budget for the year, based on planned activity for this sub-committee, and submit to the Executive Committee. 3. Develop and implement an environmental awareness campaign for SMEs. 4. In collaboration with the Training & Development sub-committee, conduct training programmes for environmental awareness. 5. Collaboration with key stakeholders (e.g. Ministry, EMA) in promoting environment-friendly practices amongst SMEs. 6. Participation in reclamation activities in areas where the environment has been damaged.

17 Executive Committee Purpose To guide the Association in achieving its vision as contained in the Constitution, through ensuring the various sub-committees are fully-functional, and carrying out their roles and responsibilities according to their mandates as contained herein. Short-term objectives (one year) To create an enabling environment that supports and guides various sub committees to develop and achieve their objectives.. To create a powerful impact on the Zimbabwe economic scene, resulting in a turnaround of the current situation where real economic fundamentals are in recession. To ensure the Association establishes and attains a prominent standing, higher than that of any of the currently-existing business associations, in terms of: o Active membership o Brand awareness o Recognition by Government and other key stakeholders. Composition 1. The composition of the Executive Committee shall be as defined in the Constitution of the SME Association of Zimbabwe. 2. On a day-to-day basis, the Executive Committee shall be the ultimate authority for the Association. 3. The Executive Committee shall be subject to the jurisdiction of the Finance, Audit and Human Resources sub-committees in the areas of benefits to committee members, management of resources (especially where Executive Committee members are beneficiaries) and any areas where there may be conflict of interest. 4. No member of the Executive Committee shall be a member of the Audit Committee, or Human Resources Committee. Authority and responsibilities 1. Consolidate and coordinate the plans from sub-committees (purposes and short-term objectives) to ensure the Association s overall vision is attained. 2. Prepare and approve the consolidated budget for the year, based on planned activity for this sub-committees. 3. Exercise all powers as contained in the Constitution. 4. Elect sub-committees to help in the carrying out of its various mandates, but shall ultimately be responsible for all activities legally carried out by such sub-committees.

18 Finance Committee Purpose Establish and maintain a robust, world-class financial management environment within the SME Association of Zimbabwe. Short-term objectives (one year) Establish and implement a robust financial management system for the Association. Establish policies and procedures that ensure all the Association s resources are fully accounted for, and protected. Establish financial reporting procedures for the various stakeholders inside and outside the Association. Composition 1. Members of this sub-committee shall be nominated by the outgoing Executive Committee not less than four weeks prior to an AGM at which elections for Executive Committee posts will be held. 2. Members of the Association in general meeting shall have the right to appoint not less than two members of this sub-committee directly in the AGM, after taking into consideration their qualifications. Such appointments shall require endorsement by a majority of members in the AGM. 3. Nominated candidates names shall be circulated to members in the notice convening the AGM, and they shall be endorsed by the members at the AGM. Where objections are raised, alternative members shall be appointed and endorsed in the AGM, or in a subsequent meeting convened for this purpose. 4. Once appointed, members of this sub-committee shall only be removed by the Association in general meeting, after the following of due process. 5. The sub-committee shall consist of not less than four, and not more than five members. 6. The Treasurer of the Association shall be the Chairperson of this sub-committee, and shall be an experienced financial manager or accountant. 7. There shall be at least one member with non-profit organization accounting experience. 8. There shall be a Vice-Chairperson for the Finance Committee, who shall act as Chairperson in all matters where there may be a conflict of interest for the Chairperson in terms of his role as a member of both the Finance and Executive Committees. 9. Members of this sub-committee shall not be members of any other sub-committees of the Association. Authority and responsibilities 1. Develop a detailed plan for the achievement of this sub-committee s Purpose and short term objectives as outlined above. 2. Prepare a budget for the year, based on planned activity for this sub-committee, and submit to the Executive Committee.

19 3. Ensure that an adequate, robust financial management system is put in place to allow the Association to transact, record and account for all its financial activities and resources. 4. In collaboration with the Executive Committee, approve the budget set by the subcommittees and the Secretariat. 5. Maintain a rolling cashflow summary for the Association, indicating the number of months the Association can operate based on current cash resources. 6. Report on Budget versus actual spending to the Executive committee each month, highlighting potential budget under/overspends, with recommendations for corrective action Implement recommendations from the Audit Committee (resulting from internal and/or external audits) that have been agreed to by the Executive Committee and the Secretariat. 7. Establishing policies and procedures that govern deployment of the Association s resources, including accounting and safeguard of all of the Association s financial assets. 8. Acting as the oversight arm for financial activities of the Secretariat and the Executive Committee.

20 Fund-Raising Committee Purpose Oversight of the Association s income based and developmental strategies aimed at generating income to support the activities and expansion of the Association. These activities shall include collecting member subscriptions, grants, donations, sponsorships, events, advertising and any other activities that will result in the Association being able to raise funding. Short-term objectives (one year) To create multiple revenue streams for the Association that will enable it to start off, and expand its activities rapidly in line with the overall plan. Composition 1. Members of this sub-committee shall be appointed by the Executive Committee, after due consideration of their qualifications and experience. 2. This sub-committee shall consist of not less than four members. 3. The sub-committee shall be empowered, in consultation with the Executive Committee, to co-opt other members needed in order to ensure that it is capable of fully carrying out its mandate. Authority and responsibilities 1. Develop a detailed plan for the achievement of this sub-committee s Purpose and short term objectives as outlined above, in consultation with other sub-committees. 2. Prepare a cost budget for the year, based on planned activity for this sub-committee, and submit to the Executive Committee. 3. In consultation with the Finance Committee, to assess the funding requirements of the Association, and come up with a proposal for how the spend is to be financed. 4. To liaise with relevant sub-committees such as Membership, Training & Development and Media & Communications Committees to come up with strategies for raising funds. 5. Produce and implement the annual fund-raising budget, after taking into account the costs expected to be incurred over any financial period. 6. Produce and implement long-term funding plan for the Association, which takes into account the expected level of activity of the Association over time. 7. Plan and coordinate fund-raising activities and events, and ensure, in consultation with the Finance Committee, that adequate arrangements and safeguards are in place to capture all revenues.

21 Human Resources Committee Purpose To create and maintain a world-class Human Resources function within the SME Association of Zimbabwe, which adheres to best practice, and attracts and retains the best talent within the Association. Short-term objectives (one year) Produce an organogram for the Association that is both forward-looking, but also takes into account the current financial constraints that the Association is facing. In collaboration with the Chairman and the Executive Committee, recruit people to fill key positions within the Association s Secretariat. Produce performance measurement systems for the Association for all levels, i.e. Executive Committee, sub-committees and the Secretariat. Composition 1. Members of this sub-committee shall be nominated by the outgoing Executive Committee not less than four weeks prior to an AGM at which elections for Executive Committee posts will be held. 2. Members of the Association in general meeting shall have the right to appoint not less than two members of this sub-committee directly in the AGM, after taking into consideration their qualifications. Such appointments shall require endorsement by a majority of members in the AGM. 3. Nominated candidates names shall be circulated to members in the notice convening the AGM, and they shall be endorsed by the members at the AGM. Where objections are raised, alternative members shall be appointed and endorsed in the AGM, or in a subsequent meeting convened for this purpose. 4. Once appointed, members of this sub-committee shall only be removed by the Association in general meeting, after the following of due process. 5. The sub-committee shall consist of not less than four, and not more than five members. Authority and responsibilities 1. Develop a detailed plan for the achievement of this sub-committee s Purpose and short term objectives as outlined above. 2. Prepare a budget for the year, based on planned activity for this sub-committee, and submit to the Executive Committee. 3. To recommend and implement a world-class HR system within the Association. 4. To give guidance to the Executive Committee on all matters pertaining to the management of Human Resources, and in particular, the implementation of best practice in this area.

22 5. To implement and enforce a robust performance management system within the Association which ensures that members get the best possible service. 6. To design and implement a remuneration system for the Executive Committee, subcommittees and the Secretariat. In particular, to set the levels of salaries, wages, allowances and fees relating to all these functions.

23 Infrastructure Committee Purpose Create world-class infrastructure for members of the Association and for the Zimbabwean economy in general. Short-term objectives (one year) Facilitate the construct of at least one factory shell in Zimbabwe. Complete at least one infrastructure project of a significant scale within Zimbabwe. Facilitate opening and commencement of trade of the Commodities Exchange. Composition 1. Members of this sub-committee shall be appointed by the Executive Committee, after due consideration of their qualifications and experience. 2. This sub-committee shall consist of not less than four, and not more than five members. 3. The sub-committee shall be empowered, in consultation with the Executive Committee, to co-opt other members needed in order to ensure that it is capable of fully carrying out its mandate. 4. Members should have demonstrable experience and/or influence in the area of infrastructure development. Authority and responsibilities 1. Develop a detailed plan for the achievement of this sub-committee s Purpose and short term objectives as outlined above. 2. Prepare a budget for the year, based on planned activity for this sub-committee, and submit to the Executive Committee. 3. Formulate a working plan for the development of infrastructure. 4. Liaise with government departments, NGOs, municipalities and other Zimbabwean and foreign entities who are involved in the development of infrastructure with a view to developing infrastructure for SMEs. 5. Engage with key stakeholders in the restoration of national infrastructure such as railways, road, air transport, electricity, water, reticulation e.t.c. 6. In collaboration with other sub-committees such as Capital Markets, develop infrastructure such as factory shells, marketing stalls and exchanges where SME goods can be bought and sold.

24 Lobbying & Advocacy Committee Purpose To create a vibrant, non-confrontational and effective lobbying and advocacy function for the Association which continuously seeks a level and fair playing field for SMEs in Zimbabwe and on the global market. Short-term objectives (one year) To create a voice for SMEs on pressing, pertinent issues such as: o Harassment by authorities o High interest rates compared to large counterparts o Meager allocation of resources in relation to size and economic importance o High costs at start-up, and need for concessions e.g. NSSA, ZIMRA To engage and work with other stakeholders on issues related to national development in general, whether social, political or economic. To neutralise the polarization currently characterizing the Zimbabwean landscape which has led to economic decline and deterioration in the standard of living of Zimbabweans generally. Composition 1. Members of this sub-committee shall be appointed by the Executive Committee, after due consideration of their qualifications and experience. 2. This sub-committee shall consist of not less than four, and not more than five members. 3. The sub-committee shall be empowered, in consultation with the Executive Committee, to co-opt other members needed in order to ensure that it is capable of fully carrying out its mandate. 4. At least one member of the sub-committee shall be a seasoned lawyer, well-versed in the area of advocacy. 5. Persons with a wide sphere of influence, particularly in the areas of governance, will be preferred. Authority and responsibilities 1. Develop a detailed plan for the achievement of this sub-committee s Purpose and short term objectives as outlined above. 2. Prepare a budget for the year, based on planned activity for this sub-committee, and submit to the Executive Committee. 3. Due to the sensitive nature of its mandate, all activities are to be cleared with the Executive Committee prior to implementation. 4. Develop and implement an advocacy program, starting off with current biting issues, and progressing to softer issues as time progresses.

25 5. In liaison with the Media & Communications Committee, develop passive campaigns aimed at re-asserting progressive national values, and restoring the national ethos of yesteryear, be it from a work or social perspective.

26 Markets Development Committee Purpose Transform Zimbabwe from being a closed, protectionist market to being a dominant world-player, supplying quality goods and services to the global village. Short-term objectives (one year) Visibly expand the marketing reach of SMEs locally, regionally and internationally. Increase the level of networking amongst SMEs. Composition 1. Members of this sub-committee shall be appointed by the Executive Committee, after due consideration of their qualifications and experience. 2. This sub-committee shall consist of not less than four, and not more than five members. 3. The sub-committee shall be empowered, in consultation with the Executive Committee, to co-opt other members needed in order to ensure that it is capable of fully carrying out its mandate. Authority and responsibilities 1. Develop a detailed plan for the achievement of this sub-committee s Purpose and short term objectives as outlined above. 2. Prepare a budget for the year, based on planned activity for this sub-committee, and submit to the Executive Committee. 3. Create a strong marketing drive for Zimbabwean products in local and overseas markets. 4. Assist SMEs with knowledge and strategies for expanding their marketing reach. 5. In collaboration with the Infrastructure Committee, provide and encourage the development of additional marketing platforms for SMEs. 6. In liaison with the Fund-raising Committee, as well as other existing organizations, host events such as shows and expos throughout the country. 7. Enable local SMEs to participate in foreign shows, expos and other marketing events. 8. Create extensive networking platforms for SMEs within the Association, in Zimbabwe and with the rest of the world. 9. In collaboration with the Media & Communications and Training & Development Committees, provide SMEs with the know-how required to create strong brands that can sell internationally.

27 Media & Communications Committee Purpose Create a unified, powerful and progressive voice, brand and presence for the Association in Zimbabwe and abroad. Short-term objectives (one year) Establish the Association as a credible, powerful and reasonable brand within the Zimbabwean economy and landscape. Coordinate the Association s communications and market presence to ensure consistency with its overall aims, Purpose and activities. Composition 1. Members of this sub-committee shall be appointed by the Executive Committee, after due consideration of their qualifications and experience. 2. This sub-committee shall consist of not less than four, and not more than five members. 3. The Chairperson of this sub-committee shall be the Association s spokesperson. 4. The sub-committee shall be empowered, in consultation with the Executive Committee, to co-opt other members needed in order to ensure that it is capable of fully carrying out its mandate. Authority and responsibilities 1. In liaison with other sub-committees and the Executive Committee, develop a detailed plan for the achievement of this sub-committee s Purpose and short term objectives as outlined above. 2. Prepare a budget for the year, based on planned activity for this sub-committee, and submit to the Executive Committee. 3. In consultation with the Executive Committee, development and coordination of media campaigns for the Association and its various sub-committees, depending on the activities being carried out. 4. Acting as spokesperson for the Association, particularly with regards to key issues affecting the Association and/or its members. 5. Create a strong, vibrant, visible brand for the Association that can withstand local and international scrutiny. 6. Assisting all committees with presentation issues, and ensuring that the Association s image and brand status is maintained in all interactions with internal and external parties.

28 Membership Committee Purpose Enlist at least 80% of all SMEs into the SME Association of Zimbabwe within three years. Short-term objectives (one year) Recruitment of not less than SMEs into the Association in Composition 1. Members of this sub-committee shall be appointed by the Executive Committee members, after due consideration of their qualifications and experience. 2. The sub-committee shall consist of not less than four, and not more than five members. 3. This sub-committee shall be chaired by the Secretary-General of the Association. Authority and responsibilities 1. Develop a detailed plan for the achievement of this sub-committee s Purpose and short term objectives as outlined above. 2. Prepare a budget for the year, based on planned activity for this sub-committee, and submit to the Executive Committee. 3. Carry out vetting, approval and disciplinary activities for the Association. 4. Expand the membership base of the Association across the length and breadth of the country. 5. Maintain close interaction with members, and ensure that the Association continuously adapts to the changing needs of its members. 6. Maintain the register of members of the Association. 7. In consultation with the Media & Communications Committee, develop advertising campaigns, brochures, pamphlets and any other promotional material required to market the Association.

29 Research & Development Committee Purpose Ensure that the Association and its members attain and maintain a position of leadership in the area of SME development through the application of research and development techniques. Short-term objectives (one year) Quantify the extent and contribution of the SME sector in Zimbabwe. Create robust Monitoring and Evaluation function for the Association. Composition 1. Members of this sub-committee shall be appointed by the Executive Committee members, after due consideration of their qualifications and experience. 2. The sub-committee shall consist of not less than four, and not more than five members. 3. There shall be at least one qualified and experienced economist within this sub-committee, and other members are expected to hold relevant qualifications and/or experience. Authority and responsibilities 1. Develop a detailed plan for the achievement of this sub-committee s Purpose and short term objectives as outlined above. 2. Prepare a budget for the year, based on planned activity for this sub-committee, and submit to the Executive Committee. 3. Perform research into areas of concern for the Association and its members, and provide quantitative and qualitative feedback on such research. 4. Monitoring and evaluation of the Association s various programmes and their impact on SMEs. 5. Promoting the development of new ideas and strategies aimed at enhancing the operations of SMEs. 6. To act as a think-tank for the Association where issues requiring extensive intellectual and scientific input are present. 7. Encourage the development of scientific processes within SME operations. 8. Institute quality control procedures within the Association and within its members. 9. Promote the development of local intellectual properties, inventions, ideas and innovations, and assist SMEs and Zimbabweans in general in the area of protection of intellectual properties.

30 Training & Development Committee Purpose To create a world-class training program for SMEs that will give them adequate training to expand from being small enterprises to being large corporations with global impact. Short-term objectives (one year) Set up and implement a comprehensive training & development program, and calendar for Composition 1. Members of this sub-committee shall be appointed by the Executive Committee members, after due consideration of their qualifications and experience. 2. The sub-committee shall consist of not less than four, and not more than five members. 3. The Chairperson shall be a person with relevant qualifications and experience in the training of SMEs. 4. Other committee members should have relevant qualifications and/or experience in training and development. 5. The sub-committee shall be empowered, in consultation with the Executive Committee, to co-opt other members needed in order to ensure that it is capable of fully carrying out its mandate. Authority and responsibilities 1. Develop a detailed plan for the achievement of this sub-committee s Purpose and short term objectives as outlined above. 2. Prepare a budget for the year, based on planned activity for this sub-committee, and submit to the Executive Committee. 3. Create training programs for SMEs and their employees 4. Monitor international trends in SME development, and implement them within the Association. 5. Come up with innovations in the area of SME training which will ensure that knowledge is imparted and implemented in the SMEs operations. 6. Maintaining a register of approved trainers and training institutions that the Association will partner with in carrying out its mandate, and coordinate their activities.