Job Field: Sector in Agriculture / Agro-Allied  , Project Management

  • Seed Systems Senior Advisor, Humanitarian and Fragile Contexts

    Seed Systems Senior Advisor, Humanitarian and Fragile Contexts

    Mercy Corps seeks an experienced seed system technical advisor who has significant program and partnership management experience. They will be responsible for the overall management and technical direction of Mercy Corps’ two ISSD action learning topics (c. 60% time) and the relevant seed system components of PWS (c. 40% time). Both programs are founded in collaboration and consultation and will require working with various stakeholders such as other INGOs, local organizations, research institutions and donors.
    The Senior Technical Advisor will lead the technical seeds-related activities for both PWS and ISSD Africa, including conducting desk reviews on seed-related activities in conflict-affected areas, particularly linked to peace building, and on challenges, benefits and gaps in private sector practices that could contribute to more resilient, inclusive and productive seed systems in fragile contexts; pilot-testing and refining tools and guidance materials, building off of the CAT and SERT developed under the last ISSD phase; forging new connections and partnerships with seed system actors; convening online and in-person events with diverse stakeholders such as policy makers, implementing partners, donors and private sector actors; and documenting and disseminating learning and tools.
    Alongside technical activities, the Senior Advisor will be responsible for management oversight of the two ISSD Africa action learning projects. This will include leading project strategy, partner coordination and management, technical implementation, hiring and managing technical consultants where needed, and reporting and budgeting.

    Essential Job Responsibilities
    PROGRAM STRATEGY

    Lead the implementation strategy development and refinement of Mercy Corps’ ISSD action learning projects, in collaboration with project partners and other relevant stakeholders
    Act as Mercy Corps’ lead point of contact with WCDI, including engaging in the ISSD Africa management meetings and representing Mercy Corps at partner events
    Work with PWS leadership on implementation strategy for emergency BHA partners, specifically focused on partners’ seed system priorities
    Identify opportunities for synergies with Mercy Corps’ seed system activities

    PROGRAM MANAGEMENT

    Ensure that program implementation is responsive to implementing partners and consistent with Mercy Corps’ relevant program guidelines, principles, values, quality standards and strategic plan.
    Manage the workplan, budget and reporting for Mercy Corps’ two ISSD action learning projects
    Lead on procurement processes, recruitment, and contracting of consultants, sub-awardees and other vendors
    Manage project partnerships (SeedSystem and IFDC) and relevant consultants, ensuring clear communication, roles and responsibilities and completion of deliverables on time and within budget
    Ensure delivery of action research, knowledge sharing and learning activities on time, target and budget, using effective M&E systems to reach desired impacts.
    Ensure all interventions adhere to Mercy Corps’ Gender Policy, Do No Harm principles, and beneficiary accountability standards.

    PROGRAM TECHNICAL IMPLEMENTATION

    Contribute to influential analysis and derive new insights from desk reviews, assessments and pilot tests; incorporate those results and best practices into learning documents, practical tools or other outputs. Technical focus areas may include: seed systems in conflict-affected areas; private sector practices that could contribute to more resilient, inclusive and productive seed systems in fragile contexts; linking seed system interventions with resilience design and related outcomes (e.g., nutrition, food security); and anticipatory action and scenario planning for seed activities.
    Lead online and in-person technical consultations to harness learning and share best practices and lessons learned; document learning and develop guidance documents/tools based on lessons learned; and facilitate knowledge sharing events with relevant stakeholders.
    Forge new connections and partnerships with seed system actors;
    Document and disseminate learning and tools widely to ensure best practices are shared, endorsed and utilized amongst relevant stakeholders.

    MONITORING, EVALUATION AND IMPACT MEASUREMENT

    Manage the M&E system for Mercy Corps’ two ISSD Africa action learning projects; externally, this will include tracking key indicators (through collating documentation and annual or end-of-project surveys with project stakeholders) for reporting to WCDI; internally, this will include ensuring data is entered into Mercy Corps’ online tracking system and annually reporting on participant counts.
    Contribute to PWS’s M&E and report systems, as relevant and when needed.

    FINANCE & COMPLIANCE MANAGEMENT

    Ensure compliance with donors and Mercy Corps regulations.
    Work closely with finance officer to ensure ISSD budget is managed effectively, on time and within scope.
    Communicate effectively to ensure overall program targets and donor obligations are met.

    INFLUENCE, REPRESENTATION AND PARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

    Identify, build and manage strategic partnerships with SeedSystem, IFDC, other ISSD Africa partners, USAID, as well as with networks and stakeholders.
    Represent both programs and Mercy Corps with different stakeholders, in relevant practitioner and learning networks and at key events, as well as through developing industry wide papers, conference presentations, and online fora.
    Build external visibility on relevant technical areas.

    Supervisory Responsibility

    The position will supervise consultants and sub-awardees, including the technical partners engaged in ISSD Africa. They may occasionally supervise interns and/or volunteers on special assignments.

    Accountability

    Reports Directly To: Director, PRO-WASH & SCALE
    Works Directly With: Snr Director Food Security (dotted line for ISSD Africa work). Agriculture Advisors and other team members; Agriculture Systems and other relevant TSU team members, Mercy Corps country program teams in priority countries; Wageningen University and Research and other ISSD Africa Partners; SeedSystem; IFDC; Save the Children; and IDEAL, PRO-WASH, REAL, PCS and other USAID/BHA learning award staff.

    Accountability to Participants and Stakeholders

    Mercy Corps team members are expected to support all efforts toward accountability, specifically to our program participants, community partners, other stakeholders, and to international standards guiding international relief and development work. We are committed to actively engaging communities as equal partners in the design, monitoring and evaluation of our field projects.

    Minimum Qualification & Transferable Skills

    At least 4 years of experience implementing emergency projects with a focus on seed system development and/or technically leading or advising on seed system interventions.
    Advanced degree at master’s level or above in a field relevant to agriculture or international development, or at least 7 years of relevant work experience.
    Demonstrated program management experience, including budget management and multi-partner, multi-country coordination experience
    Demonstrated strong theoretical and applied technical expertise in formal and informal seed system development; practical experience with seed system assessments, strongly preferred.
    Demonstrated strong theoretical and applied knowledge of market-based programming, including using integrated approaches and applying systems thinking, preferred.
    Experience developing knowledge sharing strategies, learning tools, and leading/facilitating learning events.
    Demonstrated ability to engage stakeholders at different levels from various agencies to collate learning and develop frameworks for implementation.
    Demonstrated strong interpersonal skills and the ability to develop collaborative relationships
    Strong presentation and communication skills in English required.
    Willingness and ability to travel to Mercy Corps project sites and field locations, including traveling to insecure environments, is required.
    Fluency (written and verbal) in English is required; working knowledge (verbal) of French is preferred.

    Apply via :

    jobs.jobvite.com

  • Senior Specialist – Trade 

Senior Specialist – Agricultural Market Systems

    Senior Specialist – Trade Senior Specialist – Agricultural Market Systems

    The Position
    Senior Specialist – Trade Job Reference: SST/IMT/07/2024
    Fixed Term: 24 Months
    We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Market and Trade Specialist to join our team and play a pivotal role in supporting the development of an enabling environment for regional and continental agricultural and food trade. The successful candidate will be responsible for spearheading initiatives aimed at streamlining trade regimes, removing non-tariff trade barriers, fostering an environment conducive to the growth of agricultural and food trade within the region and beyond, and creating job opportunities.
    The successful candidate will lead and manage the design and implementation of projects that support evidence-based trade policy and advocacy, integrated corridor development, Standards Quality Infrastructure (SQI) & Sanitary and Phyto-Sanitary measures, and digital trade.
    Key Duties and Responsibilities:

    Lead in the development of investment proposals in support of the AGRA Inclusive Market and Trade (IMTF) strategy implementation at continental and country levels.
    Supporting the adoption of the mutual recognition arrangements (MRAs) between Eastern and Southern African (ESA) countries – this shall include technical review of documents, engagements with high-level officials to garner momentum, and facilitation of meetings.
    Supporting the implementation of the digital regional food balance sheet (RFBS) in ESA countries by supporting technical review of reports, analyzing and advising scope for expansion, and high-level engagements with partners (Trademark Africa and others) to garner support for the agenda, private sector engagement to understand and adapt user needs with COMESA, etc
    Support the development of a pipeline of investments building upon past lessons of the Regional Food Trade and Resilience (RFTR) program and the new direction of AGRA around youth employment and food systems
    Provide regular technical and program support to grantees under the program identifying bottlenecks and immediately proposing solutions.
    Co-led in the development and rollout of the AFCFTA-led agricultural and food trade strategy by regularly reviewing consultant reports, facilitating consultations updating reports, and identifying early/potential investment areas.
    Drive the activities of the food trade coalition by revamping the TWGs, organizing regular engagements, disseminating lessons or knowledge, building new membership, and maintaining a regular database in line with a refreshed model of delivery.
    Lead and carry out relevant market/trade and political economy analysis to inform current and future regional markets investments.
    Provide technical contributions to other initiatives such as the development of business cases for the African Food Baskets initiative.

    Key Qualifications and Experience Required: 

    Master’s degree in economics, international trade, agricultural economics, or a related field.
    Relevant experience in trade policy analysis, trade facilitation, or related fields, preferably in the agricultural or food sector.
    Experience in regional trade/integration
    Working knowledge of climate resilience approaches should be desirable
    Proven track record of policy development, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement in the context of regional or international trade.
    Familiarity with regional and continental organizations responsible for facilitation of trade
    Strong analytical skills, with the ability to conduct rigorous market analysis and research.
    Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively convey complex concepts to diverse audiences.
    Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams and across cultural boundaries.
    Familiarity with the application of digital tools in the facilitation of market linkages and trade
    Fluency in English is required; proficiency in other languages, particularly French is an advantage.
    Experience in project management, including the design, implementation, and evaluation of trade-related projects.
    Proficiency in grant management, including proposal development, budgeting, reporting, and compliance.
    Experience working with donors, development banks, and other funding agencies on project implementation and resource mobilization.
    Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively.
    Experience working in developing countries or emerging markets is highly desirable.
    Demonstrated experience developing knowledge management products.

    go to method of application »

    If you believe you are the right candidate for this position, kindly submit your application with a detailed CV (including your e-mail and telephone contacts) to recruit@agra.org. Please quote the job reference number in the subject line of the application e-mail.

    Apply via :

    recruit@agra.org

  • Partnership Lead – Coalition of Implementers for Fertilizer and Soil Health 

Technical Lead – Coalition of Implementers for Fertilizer and Soil Health

    Partnership Lead – Coalition of Implementers for Fertilizer and Soil Health Technical Lead – Coalition of Implementers for Fertilizer and Soil Health

    Position Summary

    The Partnership Lead will play a pivotal role in developing and managing strategic partnerships to support the coalition’s mission. This role requires a dynamic and results-oriented individual with a strong background in agriculture, soil health, and fertilizer use, as well as experience in coalition building and stakeholder engagement. 

    Responsibilities
    Partnership Development:

    Identify and engage potential partners across government, private sector, academia, and non-profit organizations.
    Develop and implement partnership strategies to advance the coalition’s goals.
    Foster and maintain strong relationships with existing partners.

    Stakeholder Engagement:

    Facilitate effective communication and collaboration among coalition members.
    Organize and lead stakeholder meetings, workshops, and events.
    Ensure all partners are aligned with the coalition’s objectives and activities.

    Resource Mobilization:

    Identify funding opportunities and secure financial and in-kind resources to support coalition initiatives.
    Prepare grant proposals, reports, and other documentation required by funders.
    Manage budgets and track financial contributions from partners.

    Program Management:

    Oversee the implementation of partnership projects and initiatives (in collaboration with the Technical Lead).
    Monitor and evaluate the impact of partnership activities.
    Provide regular updates and reports to the coalition leadership and partners.

    Advocacy:

    Represent the coalition at conferences, forums, and other public events.
    Advocate for policies and practices that support sustainable fertilizer use and soil health improvement.

    Required Skills

    Master’s degree in agriculture, environmental science, business, or a related field. 
    At least 7 years of experience in partnership development, stakeholder engagement, or a related field. 
    Strong understanding of issues related to fertilizer use, soil health, and sustainable agriculture. 
    Proven track record of successfully managing partnerships and securing funding. 
    Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills. 
    Ability to work independently and as part of a multi-national/multi-cultural team. 
    Proficiency in project management and using relevant software tools. 
    Fluency in English and French would be preferred.  
    Willingness to travel as required. 

    go to method of application »

    Use the link(s) below to apply on company website.  

    Apply via :

  • VACS Capacity Project Lead

    VACS Capacity Project Lead

    General Project Management.

    Coordinate a large team including sub-contractors, sub grantees, staff, consultants, Hubs, scholars and professionals.
    Work with different stakeholders in project implementation
    Ensure timely delivery of all relevant deliverables according to the project workplans and oversee financial management as per USAID and CIMMYT policies
    Liaise with donor, project partners, and stakeholders, and respond to their requests as necessary, attend quarterly donor meetings
    Develop progress reports, backstop weekly highlights, and coordinate their timely submissions.
    Lead the development of annual work plans and oversee project procurement and Monitoring evaluation and Learning.
    Build, develop, negotiate and nurture partnerships with suppliers, public and private sector organizations, CGIAR Centers, academia, and others
    Develop suitable contracting documents in collaboration with CIMMYT’s legal team and ensure timely and effective implementation of partnering agreements such as subgrants and consultancies.
    Prepare, attend, and coordinate field visits for partners and donors and organize workshops, trainings, and field meetings.
    Be the main point of contact for donors in the VACS Capacity Activity.
    Represent the VACS Capacity activity in all relevant meetings with government stakeholders.
    Perform any other duties required in furtherance of project activities and assigned.

    VACS Capacity Project Activity Startup Phase management.

    Develop Strategic VACS project documents: Contribute to developing strategic direction of the project including Annual workplans, MEL Plans (Working with MEL team), and project communication plan in line CIMMYT and USAID procedures.

    VACS Steering Committees.

    Plan Steering committee calendar of meetings.
    Develop the Expression of Interest and share it with the steering committee for their approval.
    Ensure that the Steering committee’s meeting minutes are filled and shared with the members.
    Work with Steering committee to identify and choose the Selection Committee Members

    Project Communication and Reporting.

    Support the development of the VACS Capacity Communication materials.
    Support the VACS Capacity Website page frequent content creation.
    Lead the development of the VACS Periodic reports to USAID and for internal CIMMYT management reports.

    Requirements

    MSc or MBA in agronomy/agricultural engineering/mechanization/agricultural economics (a PhD would be a plus).
    At least seven years of practical experience in managing multi-million-dollar projects (preferably smallholder mechanization projects).
    Strong knowledge on the mechanization value and supply chains and business models.
    Experience with USAID-funded Feed the Future projects, ME&L, and reporting.
    High proficiency in written and spoken English.
    Demonstrated experience with strong report writing skills.
    Record of high-quality publications and experience in translating research results into promotional (e.g., bulletins, booklets, leaflets, blogs, etc.) and training materials.
    Support and advance CIMMYT’s research agenda and position it with key stakeholders and in meetings and fora.
    Computer literacy, with proficiency in the common software packages.
    Ability to work in multi-cultural environments and in multi-disciplinary teams.
    Willingness to spend considerable time away from home.
    Demonstrated project leadership and management, team building and cohesion.
    The selected candidate should exhibit the following competencies: Negotiation and Conflict Resolution, Decision Making, Teamwork, and Communication.

    Apply via :

    apply.workable.com

  • Executive Director – Sustain Africa

    Executive Director – Sustain Africa

    Responsibilities

    The Executive Director is the leader of a small team staffed by IFDC and other Sustain Africa global partners
    The ED is the primary external representative of Sustain Africa and works consistently on expanding its platform amongst private sector, research institutions, donors and government relationships
    The ED has a consistent focus on fundraising to fund the different activities of Sustain Africa
    The ED is responsible for execution of the activities in the Fertilizer and Soil Health work stream
    The ED monitors and interprets the findings of the Sustain Africa Fertilizer Monitor; compiling its conclusions in quarterly reports and advising the Board on actions to be taken
    The ED monitors developments in farm inputs and soil health (e.g., liming, soil maps, green ammonia etc.)
    The ED advises internal (Board, global partners, other Sustain members) and external parties about Sustain
    Africa’s Lessons Learned and positioning on market and food systems development
    The ED will form a Leadership Team with the other Director(s) leading the Sustain FST and potentially other future work streams
    The ED drafts and updates the Sustain Africa Strategy
    The ED operates within the mandate for the role as laid down in the Sustain Africa Collaboration Agreement
    The ED secures operations of Sustain Africa within the constraints of prevailing legislation, compliance requirements, policies, and procedures within the host organization IFDC and budgets.

    Requirements

    7+ years of leadership experience in food systems development
    A master’s degree in a relevant academic field or comparable competences
    Experience in farm inputs markets, fertilizer, finance, and leadership/management.
    Entrepreneurial drive with a can-do attitude backed by solid analytical skills, judgment, and risk awareness
    Cultural overview and demonstrated mastery of multiple communicative leadership styles
    Pioneering and inquisitive personality
    Strong communication skills and media experience
    Proven track record as fundraiser
    Very strong team and platform builder
    Complex problem solving, creativity, negotiation
    Understanding of stakeholders’ position and strategic and financial interests in multi-stakeholder environments
    In depth knowledge of food systems and Food System Transition, key sustainability topics in F&A and in particular in the farm inputs sector
    Presentation skills on Board level and in international networks
    Fluent in English and preferably a second language, both verbal and written.

    Apply via :

    jobs.silkroad.com

  • African Pastoralism Technical Specialist 

Africa Grasslands and Pastoralists Senior Manager

    African Pastoralism Technical Specialist Africa Grasslands and Pastoralists Senior Manager

    The African Pastoralism Technical Specialist provides technical leadership, oversight, and support through advisory and active testing of ideas on site-based grasslands and savannah projects within Conservation International’s Africa Field Division, with a specific focus on Herding for Health (H4H) implementation. The technical specialist will ensure grasslands and savannah are adhering to the best sustainable livestock regenerative agriculture and land management practices and will directly coordinate with site-based technical staff to provide guidance and support as needed, for example in grazing area management and farmer engagements. They will operationalize fit-for-purpose sustainable livestock management approaches across all H4H sites, considering the different ecosystem types, cultural diversity, environmental variabilities, and animal health challenges that are prevalent in the different landscapes. They will update technical learning materials based on research and experience from demonstration sites and provide input to training partners for the development and implementation of relevant training materials.
    In addition to providing site-specific technical input, the African Pastoralism Technical Specialist will form part of the CI Grasslands and Savannah Team, and will provide input to strategic planning, and fundraising proposals. They will work closely with other technical divisions in Conservation International and Peace Parks Foundation, responsible for restoration, technology development, Conservation Stewardship Agreements, and mapping.
    The Technical Specialist will work closely with the Conservation Stewardship Program and site-based teams to engage and implement Stewardship Agreements.

    Responsibilities
    Strategy Implementation

    Livestock Production
    Provide technical leadership in sustainable livestock management techniques including animal health, productivity, and nutrition for communal livestock farming.
    Provide technical support to herding for health implementation with a focus on animal productivity, animal handling, branding, herd dynamics, herd health, and record keeping.
    Develop fit-for-purpose community livestock management approaches that support healthier animals and healthier grasslands.
    Assess herd genetics and engage farmers on suitable approaches to improve herd genetics in each of the Herding for Health cohorts.
    Work together with veterinarians to affiliated with the projects and landscape leads to support the development of herd health plans and ensure site-specific diseases are managed as part of the herding for health approach.
    Support landscape leaders to enhance farmers/ farmer group engagements and guide the establishment of appropriate community governance structures.
    Work with landscape leads/H4Hsites leads to develop measures and partnerships that will unlock relevant livestock value chains and provide access to markets for pastoralists and implement a market-based incentive approach for sustained implementation of the H4H model in the landscape.
    Where necessary, support the implementation of commodity-based trade in line with the World Organization for Animal Health.
    Provide technical input in implementing a One Health Approach in H4H sites.
    Together with policy development teams, contribute to policy briefs on enhancing livestock trade and commodity-based trade in Africa.
    Grasslands, Savannah, and Scrublands Management
    Implement climate-smart grazing plans to ensure sustainable healthy grasslands and in-line with the needs of the landscape.
    Conduct farmer engagements together with site teams to co-create grazing plans (rotational grazing and planned rest, considering frequency, timing, duration, and intensity to support restoration of degraded grasslands
    Together with the site teams, relevant government departments, support the operationalization of grazing plans at the landscape level to maximize the ecological impact from the intervention.
    Ensure livestock production measures implemented align with ecological imperatives to restore biodiversity and sustain ecosystem functions.
    Contribute to policy briefs on sustainable livestock management as a mechanism for climate adaptation and mitigation.
    Support the Grasslands and Savannah Senior Program Manager in leading a technical community of practice focused on grasslands and savannah at the landscape level.
    Community Engagements and Governance
    Engage livestock farmers/pastoralists to better manage their livestock herds for better productivity along the livestock value chain.
    Develop strategies for improved community governance that empower farmers to build sustainable grazing management, enhance livestock health, and obtain better markets,
    Provide technical leadership in ensuring quality implementation of the herding for health amplification strategy at landscape implementation/site level and help consolidate existing projects, establish new project sites, and support the development of strong sustainability mechanisms in each site.
    Work together with the Stewardship Agreement and Site Teams, to support farmer engagements on Rangeland Stewardship Agreements.

    Capacity Building

    Support landscape leads and where needed provide leadership in the establishment of the technical advisory committee in each landscape to tap into local experience and expertise that will help improve the delivery of outcomes of the project in each implementation site.
    Provide technical input on training manuals, toolkits, online courses, and other learning-related materials.
    Work closely with training partners (e.g. Southern Africa Wildlife College, Herding Academy, Afrivet and ILRI, and other relevant training institutes in East and Southern Africa) to develop relevant H4H training material.
    Support and when needed conduct H4H training to identified groups and stakeholders in support of implementation of CI and partner projects.
    Capacitate and strengthen farmers to be better stewards of their land with robust governance systems.

    Financial Sustainability

    Together with partners, establish market access opportunities and support farmer engagements in implementing prioritized opportunities.
    Develop and support the effective implementation of technical proposals and action plans related to livestock work, to deliver planned outcomes.
    Provide technical contributions to innovative finance initiatives such as Soil Organic Carbon, and Payment for Ecosystem Services, among others.

    Compliance, Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning

    Support with data collection for the H4H Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning framework covering indicators such as land cover changes, livestock, and livelihood/socio-economic impacts.
    Ensure each site is compliant with relevant organizational policies, protocols, and frameworks.
    Record and track risks for H4H sites together with the Grasslands and Savannah Senior Manager.
    Ensure each site is compliant with Environmental and Social Safeguards in place.
    Catalogue relevant project/program information in planning, monitoring, or related systems.
    Support adaptive management for H4H sites in line with the lessons learned.
    Develop and deliver high-quality landscape-based technical products, analysis, and information that lead to conservation outcomes.
    Provide periodic reports and assessments on progress against goals for internal and external audiences. Assess progress and refine action plans and outcomes as needed.
    Work closely with Africa Grasslands and Savannah team in CI and H4H team in Peace Parks Foundation to ensure harmony and synergy between teams for optimal results achievement.

    Additional Responsibilities
    Logistics and communication

    Support communication team with information and media presence of the Africa grassland and savannah portfolio.
    Assist with logistical support as and when needed.
    Coordinate virtual and in-person workshops and meetings that bring out and amplify voices from the field to internal and external audiences.

    Team Culture

    Build camaraderie and team spirit among implementation teams.
    Create a sense of team unity across all implementation sites.
    Create opportunities for learning across sites.

    People and resource management responsibilities

    This position does not have direct supervisory authority but assists and mentors less-experienced team members.
    Serves as a subject matter expert on effective grassland and livestock management, climate-smart livestock management, and agriculture enterprise development.

    WORKING CONDITIONS

    Extended work hours may be required.
    Ability and willingness to travel on a regular basis to field sites within southern, and east Africa and when needed other countries in the rest of Africa where CI is supporting H4H implementation.
    May need to work out of doors in adverse weather conditions.
    This position follows a hybrid work structure, working some days from the office and some remotely. Guidance will be shared during the interview process.
    Expected to be a 3-year assignment.

    Qualifications
    Required

    Bachelor’s degree in animal production or grasslands and savannah management, grassland ecology, rangelands grasslands and savannah, animal health or other relevant fields.
    4 to 6 years of experience as a livestock production expert and working with livestock farmers. Demonstrable experience working with farmers/pastoralism or as a livestock farmer and land management experience.
    Up to 2 years of supervisory experience.
    Demonstrable experience in linking farmers to markets.
    Experience with implementing projects in communal farming systems will be an advantage.
    Livestock farming credentials will be highly recognized.
    Good academic record with a strong publications profile will be considered.

    Preferred

    Master’s degree in any of these relevant fields.
    Strong communication and presentation skills including the ability to effectively convey complex details or technical information.
    Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
    Basic administration and coordination skills are essential.
    Highly familiar with etiquette, protocol, and employing cultural awareness and sensitivity.
    Proven team player.
    Self-driven with strong leadership and performance management.
    Highly organized and able to manage multiple priorities simultaneously in a dynamic environment.

    go to method of application »

    Use the link(s) below to apply on company website.  

    Apply via :

  • Chief of Party – USAID Transforming Financial Markets for Agricultural SMEs

    Chief of Party – USAID Transforming Financial Markets for Agricultural SMEs

    The Chief of Party will provide overall strategic leadership, technical leadership, and oversight to the program, ensuring an integrated vision among different components and actors, and a focus on achieving program results. The COP will coordinate and ultimately be responsible for all contract management and implementation. The COP will also be responsible for ensuring quality control and providing overall technical and management leadership under the award. This individual must identify issues and risks related to program implementation in a timely manner and suggest appropriate adjustments. This individual must act as the key liaison with USAID and all other counterparts on procedural and substantive matters, implementing partners and stakeholders. The COP must be responsive to USAID including technical direction. The position requires significant coordination skills, broad general and technical knowledge, an ability to cope with multiple interests and challenges, experience in developing countries, and skills to ensure coherence and consistency in the face of urgent deadlines.

    Duration: 5 years (anticipated start in 2025)
    Location: Kenya
    Primary Role And Responsibilities

    Provide overall leadership for project management and implementation of project activities.
    Manage project partners and project staff, ensuring that they are fully engaged and participating in program implementation.
    Serve as the main interface between the project, country governments, United States Government (USG) entities, Palladium senior management, and other relevant stakeholders.
    Oversee the project budget and finances, including budget projections, project spending, and financial performance reporting.
    Represent the project at relevant professional meetings, working groups, and seminars.
    Prepare, contribute to, and provide oversight of analyses, recommendations, briefing notes, white papers, assessments, workplans, and reporting materials for internal and client use. Ensure timely and high-quality submission of deliverables.
    Lead strategic development and support of programming in collaboration with USAID and key stakeholders;
    Ensure project risk is effectively monitored and managed;
    Serve as Palladium’s primary liaison with donor(s), and other partners including civil society, government, and other related programs and projects;
    Develop and maintain effective partnerships with development partners such as government institutions, private sector, other programs across East Africa, civil society, and media;
    Communicate and implement an integrated vision among different components and actors;
    Comply with USAID and Palladium reporting requirements on program impact and implementation;

    Key Competencies Required

    Master’s degree or higher in agriculture, economics, business administration, or closely related field
    Have at least ten (10) years of significant international experience and expertise in private-sector, trade and agricultural development to successfully achieve meaningful and sustainable results, preferably in East Africa
    Have at least five (5) years’ experience in management, preferably of international development assistance or finance activities. At least three (3) years’ experience in working with the private sector in East Africa will be an added advantage.
    Extensive experience facilitating investments and mobilizing inclusive agricultural finance through blended and supply chain financing mechanisms.
    Extensive experience working in the financial sector, comfort with a wide range of financial instruments (debt, equity, blended finance), private sector investments in agriculture, out-grower schemes, and agricultural corporates.
    Have strong technical expertise, management skills, and English technical writing and communication skills.
    Demonstrated experience in successfully supporting business expansion and capital mobilization.
    Professional level of oral and written fluency in English.
    Proven track record liaising with investors, financial institutions, SMEs, government, USAID, and other key project stakeholders
    Proactive problem-solving, decision-making and good judgment skills; attention to detail and ability to effectively and efficiently perform multiple tasks and balance competing priorities
    Ability to communicate effectively with managers, colleagues, and clients
    Microsoft office suite proficiency and the ability to operate spreadsheet and word-processing programs at a highly proficient level
    Experience with USAID and other USG funding agencies. Additional experience with other international donors
    EAC nationals are encouraged to apply. Prior work experience in the region required.

    Apply via :

    palladium.csod.com

  • Lake Tanganyika Fisheries and Biodiversity Lead

    Lake Tanganyika Fisheries and Biodiversity Lead

    What We Can Achieve Together

    The Lake Tanganyika Fisheries and Biodiversity Lead is responsible for the development and collaborative implementation of strategies related to fisheries co-management and freshwater biodiversity protection in Lake Tanganyika.
    Under the supervision of the Lake Tanganyika Program Manager, they coordinate with a wide variety of TNC staff and partners under the Lake Tanganyika Program, including government and intergovernmental institutions, non-governmental organizations, and community leaders in support of achieving Lake Tanganyika freshwater conservation goals.
    They will provide capacity-building to community groups and NGOs on the lake to advance fisheries management and freshwater biodiversity conservation initiatives.
    They coordinate fisheries resource management and biodiversity conservation actions with the Lake Tanganyika riparian countries and build a coalition of partners to sustainably manage and monitor Lake Tanganyika’s unique freshwater for the decades to come.

    WE’RE LOOKING FOR YOU

    Have you ever asked yourself, “How can I make a difference?”, but you don’t know where to go or have the time to do it? Welcome to The Nature Conservancy. You have found the solution and now you can pointedly make a difference every day! By joining our Lake Tanganyika team, you will become part of a group that is a force to be reckoned with; a force for nature, a force for people, and a force for our planet.
    Our team consists of a dedicated group who are leading the conservation effort on multiple fronts and who expertly bring strategy and action together. We’re looking for an individual with fisheries management and/or conservation experience who wants to make a difference for nature and people.
    The Lake Tanganyika Fisheries and Biodiversity Lead has a strong background in fisheries science, aquatic ecology, and/or conservation biology, with a proven track record in leading multidisciplinary teams and engaging with local communities and other stakeholders.
    Based in either Kigoma or Mpanda, Tanzania, the Lake Tanganyika Fisheries and Biodiversity Lead will work closely with TNC staff in Tanzania, including the Fisheries Manager working on Lake Tanganyika around the Greater Mahale Ecosystem, as well as the Fisheries Manager working around the Kipili Archipelago and Kala. The Lake Tanganyika Fisheries and Biodiversity Lead will report to the Lake Tanganyika Program Manager, and will frequently engage with core partners in Zambia, Burundi and Democratic Republic of the Congo.
    The Fisheries and Biodiversity Lead will be guided by The Nature Conservancy’s Africa Region and Global strategies, as well as interconnections with key conservation and sustainable development stakeholders in the basin and on the continent.
    The position may work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.

    The main roles and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

    Support development and implementation of strategies for sustainable fisheries co-management and biodiversity conservation in Lake Tanganyika Basin.
    Lead the design and support the execution of scientific research and monitoring programs to assess the health of fish stocks and freshwater ecosystems.
    Collaborate with local communities, government agencies, and other stakeholders to promote and establish effective fisheries co-management practices and policies.
    Provide technical expertise and guidance on freshwater biodiversity and critical habitat protection, and climate resilience/adaptation of fishing communities.
    Analyze data and prepare technical reports, scientific papers, and policy briefs to inform decision-making and best practices.
    Mentor and build capacity among local staff and partners in fisheries co-management and critical biodiversity habitats protection mechanisms and techniques.
    Represent the Lake Tanganyika Program in regional, national, and international forums, meetings, and events related to fisheries and biodiversity conservation.
    Work closely with the Lake Tanganyika Program Manager to align program activities with broader conservation goals and objectives

    What You’ll Bring

    BA/BS degree in fisheries science, aquatic ecology, natural resources management, and conservation biology or another related field of study and at least 5 years’ experience in freshwater/marine conservation, fisheries co-management or related field.
    Experience working with and advising on current trends and practices in freshwater fisheries and biodiversity protection especially in an African context.
    Fundraising experience, including identifying donor prospects and donor cultivation
    Experience managing complex or multiple projects, including managing finances and coordinating the work of other professionals and partners.
    Supervisory experience, including motivating, leading, setting, and achieving objectives and managing performance.
    Experience in partnership development with government and intergovernmental institutions, non-profit partners, private sector, community groups and/or government agencies.
    Experience working with communities and actors at local/community level on fisheries co-management and biodiversity protection.
    Strong knowledge of the ecological, social, and economic issues surrounding freshwater ecosystems and fisheries in the Lake Tanganyika Basin.
    Fluency in English and Swahili is required.

    Desired Qualifications

    Fluency in French is an added benefit.
    Multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
    Knowledge of current trends and strategies and practices in fisheries co-management and freshwater biodiversity conservation.
    Master’s degree in fisheries science, aquatic ecology, conservation biology, or a related field.
    Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in fisheries co-management, freshwater biodiversity protection, and monitoring.
    Demonstrated experience in leading and managing complex projects involving multiple stakeholders and partners.
    Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with community members, government officials, and scientists.
    Proficiency in data analysis, GIS, and statistical software relevant to fisheries and ecological research.
    Willingness to travel frequently within the Lake Tanganyika region and occasionally beyond.
    Experience negotiating.

    Apply via :

    careers.nature.org

  • Team Leader – Financial Inclusion 

Supply Chain Officer 

Team Leader – Humanitarian Disarmament and Peacebuilding

    Team Leader – Financial Inclusion Supply Chain Officer Team Leader – Humanitarian Disarmament and Peacebuilding

    Overall purpose of the role: 
    The holder of this position will manage a team of Economic Recovery Officers and Assistants to effectively implement a Livelihoods and Self-Reliance project in Dadaab Refugee Camp and the surrounding host communities with a specific focus on financial inclusion activities. He/she will be responsible for the overall design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of DRC’s Economic Recovery Programme in the specific areas and the wider Garissa County. The Team Leader will provide oversight, technical support, and leadership within the DRC Economic Recovery unit around activities related to financial inclusion and should have expertise in financial inclusion approaches.
    Duties & Responsibilities:
    Technical Expertise in Financial Inclusion

    Provide technical guidance on financial inclusion activities, including technical design of connecting entrepreneurs to formal financial institutions
    Lead the development of revolving funds to support financial inclusion
    Provide technical guidance on the training and establishment of VSLAs, their running and managing growth in their capacity
    Liaise with formal financial institutions to support access for hard-to-reach customers, building trust and setting up dialogues with target communities
    Support small businesses to access finance and repay safely, providing mentorship where necessary to support growth and repayment of loans
    Develop a pipeline of businesses in target areas that can access formal finance and support the connection of these businesses to financial institutions.
    Provide technical guidance around KYC requirements and ID requirements for access to formal finance. 

    Program Management, Development, Monitoring and Evaluation

    In collaboration with Project Manager, provide technical leadership related to project design and development, planning, implementation, and overall project management. 
    Develop technically sound work plans consistent with program goals and objectives in coordination with Economic recovery staff & M&E team.
    Develop high-quality concept notes, proposals, strategies, and monitoring and evaluation plans and ensure appropriate and timely implementation of these plans.
    Closely monitor the implementation of Financial Inclusion activities to timely, identify any problems that may affect the achievement of intended outputs and results.
    Submit timely weekly, monthly, quarterly & annual reports to the Program Manager. 
    Organize and manage workshops, trainings and meetings that are hosted by the sector with relevant stakeholders.
    With support from field staff and M&E team, ensure robust monitoring & evaluation of all Economic recovery activities.
    Ensure timely and quality procurement of sector items and services in liaison with the Logistics department
    Ensure harmonious working of team with other consortium partners. 
    Lead in private sector partner engagement in Financial Inclusion. 

    Training & Capacity development:

    Provide ongoing technical support and mentorship for Economic Recovery Officers and Assistants to develop professional and technical competency.
    Support field teams to participate in and provide leadership within coordination working groups and other sectorial meetings.
    Provide technical feedback on narrative reports and ensuring that established program targets and objectives are being met.

    Coordination & Partnership

    Ensure that DRC is effectively represented and fully participates in all the relevant Thematic and Inter-Agency Working Groups, particularly in the areas of Agriculture, Livestock, Natural Resource Management, Business/Entrepreneurship and Private Sector. 
    Promote a positive profile of DRC and the Economic Recovery Program and ensuring DRC’s role is well understood within the sector, and among other sectors, partners and the communities.
    Develop and maintain strong working relationships with consortium partners and all other stakeholders. 
    Higher level guidance to the Market Systems with private sector engagement when scaping for partnerships for the program. Guidance in mapping and engagement strategy.

    Budget Management:

    Manage the Economic Recovery budgets in order to maintain program expenditure within budget parameters, ensuring adherence to DRC financial procedures and donor requirements
    Support the Economic Recovery team members to utilize financial planning tools, such as spending plans, procurement plans, and work plans based on activities and budgets.
    Prepare spending plans, procurement plans, and work plans based on activities and budgets.

    Staff Management:

    Timely recruitment of competent Economic Recovery staff in case of vacancies and holding regular staff meetings for planning and feedback sharing;
    Monitoring and providing objective feedback related to staff performance, including objective setting, probation and performance evaluations to promote growth and professional development.
    Providing leadership and support to ensure staff well-being.

    Experience and technical competencies: 

    At least five years of experience working in access to finance programs, sustainable and alternative livelihoods, resilience, economic recovery and self-reliance programming in displacement contexts;
    Must have a substantial previous experience in implementing financial inclusion and MSD programs with good understanding on access to finance.
    Excellent analytical and writing skills; cultural sensitivity and respect for diversity. 
    Excellent interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to establish effective and working relations with local partners and other stakeholders
    Experience and willingness to work in the field and proficient program management skills.

    Education

    At least a Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized University in Agri-business, Business Development, Natural Resource Management, Agricultural Economics, Economic Development, Community/International development). Master’s Degree in relevant field preferred

    Language: 

    Excellent Communication skills in English and Swahili required

    Key stakeholders: Internal & External
    Internal Stakeholder

    Dadaab SMT, Economic Recovery teams, Support Services team, Country office program and support teams; 

    External

    Consortium Partners
    Local government authorities
    Other NGOs
    Donors

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    Use the link(s) below to apply on company website.  

    Apply via :