The Project Lead will assume overall responsibility for the AgriHub implementation and activities to support the MSMEs, and work with multiple partners by providing high-level strategic direction to the project to ensure the overall vision of the project is met. The Project Lead will manage the proper performance of the project, develop detailed implementation plans, establish key performance indicators, and ensure the project’s milestones and targets are met. In addition, the Project Lead will ensure proper management of the project budget and alignment with other national and regional policies, strategies, and programs that are focused on the agribusiness sector.

The Project Lead will be responsible for managing the core team of staff and short-term consultants based in Addis Ababa and across the four main regions of Ethiopia (Amhara, Oromia, Tigray, and SNNP). The Project Lead will engage all relevant stakeholders to creatively solve problems and overcome obstacles to achieve desired project results. The Lead will work in close consultation with the other ATI projects to ensure effective implementation and scale-up of the project’s support. The Project Lead will directly report to the Ag. Business and Market Program Director.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Mainstream use of best practice program management approaches in implementing AgriHub in the areas like team capacity development, stakeholder coordination, planning, reporting, problem-solving, and implementation support.

• Mobilizes needed financial, human and organizational resources for the project execution.

• Plans, organizes and guides AgriHub and MSME project activities to ensure on time completion of tasks and accomplishments.

• Adjust and refine the AgriHub strategy based upon lessons learned during implementation; critically assess capacity gaps hindering effective implementation of the Project and develop approaches for improving capabilities as required.

• Engages a wide variety of stakeholders across the agriculture system (federal and regional governments, smallholder farmers, technical experts, businesses, financiers, investors, etc.) to foster effective linkages.

• Integrates and aligns AgriHub with other ATI programs to achieve synergy and outcomes that impact the boarder agricultural system.

• Draws and documents lessons and experiences gained from the project and contributes to the development of an institutional knowledge base for the ATI.

• Prepare the quarterly report for the results of the project and send to AFD based on the agreed standard reporting format.

Job Requirements

• Minimum of master’s degree in Business Administration, Agricultural Economics, Agricultural Development, Agribusiness, Finance, Commerce, Management, Marketing, International trade, International relations, or any other relevant field.

• At least 10 years of experience in either one or more of the following: business development/management/administration, program/project coordination, trade and investment facilitation, and agribusiness.

• Demonstrated track record of success with program design, performance management, learning systems, and monitoring and evaluation.

• Practical experiences in piloting, implementing, and scaling up ideas/solutions.

• Experience working with Micro, Small and Medium enterprises in Ethiopia.

• Proven experience in directly managing large number of staff with different roles and responsibilities, including in management roles.

• Outstanding track record in a leadership and management capacity on a range of client and/or senior management engagements.

• Strong set of personal values including integrity, honesty, and desire to be of service.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Strong capabilities in problem solving, project and stakeholder management.

• Strong experience of managing work programs, teams, and their individuals, as well as liaising with senior decision-makers.

• Experience in creating partnerships at the national and international levels with public and private sector partners.

• Exceptional ability to communicate consistently, clearly, and effectively with a range of stakeholders in a cross-cultural environment.

• A proven ability to lead, inspire, coach, and develop others, including people from different backgrounds and culture.

• Familiarity with Ethiopia’s agricultural system, with a broad perspective on how the entire system operates and how public, private, and informal actors operate within the system is a plus.

• Excellent proficiency with Excel and Power Point tools.

• Fluency in English and Amharic, written and spoken, is essential; knowledge of other local and/or foreign languages is a plus.

How to Apply

Register using the following LINK

Note: Your CV should not exceed 5 Pages. Don't forget to attach your cover letter. It is mandatory to mention the position title under the subject line of your cover letter. Please DO NOT submit scans of certificates with your application. Women are highly encouraged to apply. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted