Team Lead- Côte d’Ivoire

Reporting Unit/Supervisor: Country Director
Location: Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
Travel: International up to 5%    Domestic up to 25%

I. TECHNOSERVE BACKGROUND:

TechnoServe works with enterprising people in the developing world to build competitive farms, businesses and industries. We are a nonprofit organization that develops business solutions to poverty by linking people to information, capital and markets. Our work is rooted in the idea that given the opportunity, hardworking men and women in even the poorest places can generate income, jobs and wealth for their families and communities. With more than four decades of proven results, we believe in the power of private enterprise to transform lives.

II. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:

Employment is a priority of the 2012-2015 National Development Plan (NDP) for Côte d'Ivoire. The government aims to create one million jobs by 2015 to raise the current unemployment rate of 17-24% among 15 to 34 year olds.

III. POSITION DESCRIPTION:

TechnoServe is searching for a Team Leader to oversee a team of five component leads responsible for starting, managing and expanding each of five different program components aimed at accelerating growth and job creation in Côte d'Ivoire. They will manage training in business management and technical assistance for successful implementation of projects.
Team Leader will oversee program operations, including design, implementation and relationships with partners. The Team Lead will ensure the quality of execution with a particular focus on achieving impact. In addition, the Team Lead will oversee the monitoring and evaluation of their respective components. The Team Lead will also ensure that the following activities are undertaken either directly or through direct reports:

• Analyze business and technical needs of customers (small producers, cooperatives, SMEs)
• Contribute to the design, implementation and monitoring of training programs for producers, in collaboration with senior management and TechnoServe advisors
• Provide analytical support and technical assistance to improve production processes and customer relationship management
• Develop business plan designs for clients
• Ensure achievement of mobilization targets, and quality and reach of training interventions
• Ensure the full integration of women and youth into the project to maximize their participation and benefit from project activities and outcomes
• Collect and analyze quarterly key indicators of impact and performance data
• Participate and contribute to stakeholder forums
• Ensure that public-private partnerships are effectively implemented

IV. REQUIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:

• University degree in agronomy, business administration, economics, marketing, or a related discipline
• 5-10 years of experience in at least one of the following areas:  a) marketing, finance or operations management of a large trading company (coffee, cocoa, cashew, etc), b) providing technical support to SME’s, and/or c) execution of job creation programs
• Excellent skills in customer management
• Ability to understand, analyze and develop business plans and financial statements
• Strong commercial orientation and good writing skills
• Proven team leadership and good planning skills
• Ability to organize and manage complex tasks and ability to take initiative
• Excellent communication skills (oral and written) and interpersonal skills
• Fluency in French and English required
• Experience managing large donor-funded projects preferred
• Computer skills required (MS Office/Windows) 

V. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• The incumbent must sit for an extended number of hours throughout the day using a computer, talking by telephone or Skype and meeting with others.
• This person must occasionally lift items which weigh up to 20 lbs. and must be capable of lifting and pulling their luggage when traveling.
• Other requirements include climbing stairs, walking and bending

VI. APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

Qualified and interested applicants should submit a single Word-formatted document consisting of cover letter, resume and salary history to jobs@tns.org. Please identify the position for which you are applying in the subject line. Only applicants meeting minimum qualifications will be considered or contacted. No phone calls please.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER OF MINORITIES, FEMALES, PROTECTED VETERANS, AND INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

New Business Manager, West Africa

Reporting Unit/Supervisor: Regional Director for West and Southern Africa (WSA)
Location:  Based in West Africa (Abidjan, Accra or Abuja) with travel up to 50% of the time
Travel:  Willingness to travel regionally and internationally up to 50% of the time

I. TECHNOSERVE BACKGROUND:

TechnoServe works with enterprising people in the developing world to build competitive farms, businesses and industries. We are a nonprofit organization that develops business solutions to poverty by linking people to information, capital and markets. Our work is rooted in the idea that given the opportunity, hardworking men and women in even the poorest places can generate income, jobs and wealth for their families and communities. With more than four decades of proven results, we believe in the power of private enterprise to transform lives.

II. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:

To lead and support the development of new business and design of new programs that will result in increased revenue and increased impact in TechnoServe’s West Africa division.

III. POSITION DESCRIPTION:

In support of Country Directors and Division Directors, the position is responsible for identifying funding opportunities; developing, leading and strengthening fundraising strategies and tactics; and responding to major contract/grant opportunities, from bi-lateral, multi-lateral agencies, national governments, private foundations and the private sector.  This will include implementing processes with public and private sector marketing initiatives, writing, organizing, and producing competitive proposals that would increase the organizations new program development in West Africa. 

Specifically, the New Business Manager will:

1. INCREASE REVENUES TO SUPPORT IMPACTFUL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES

This position will lead and / or support as needed fundraising efforts, including fundraising strategies, program design, and coordination and writing of proposals.

• Develop winning proposals in collaboration with local teams and TNS regional and/or development divisions; including management of the proposal process, writing of the proposal and (supporting) the development of budgets and recruiting of candidates.
• In coordination with the relevant staff of the Development Division, the Regional Director of the WSA Division and the Country Directors, liaise with public sector funding agencies, institutional foundations, corporations and other private donors to acquire and maintain an in-depth knowledge about their mission, organization, policies, procedures and key decision-makers;
• Coordinate the review and maintenance of project lead summaries, the new business pipeline, the new business resource prioritization matrix, new business opportunity assessments and other requirements of the new business process
• Provide leadership to the regional team and Country Directors in the design and implementation of comprehensive fundraising strategies and annual plans with specific targets;
• Lead and/or support opportunity assessments in selected new priority countries;

2. BUILD INTERNAL CAPACITY IN NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

In addition to leading and / or supporting new business development, the New Business Manager will work with the Regional Director and country teams to strengthen their capacity to fundraise.

• Develop the capacity of local staff and teams to independently design high impact value chain interventions; to develop viable concepts for target donors and to develop and write strong proposals.
• Continuously assess and update processes, structures and systems for fundraising as they relate to individual countries and contribute to the Corporate learning in these areas;
• Monitor external best practice in proposal development; monitor and evaluate the success of internal proposals, and disseminate best practices;

3. ENSURE HIGH-QUALITY START-UP OF CONFIRMED NEW PROGRAMS

In the case of programs which have been confirmed but where there is no local capacity to ensure successful transition from the proposal phase to project implementation, the Business Development Manager will work with the Regional Director and country teams to ensure high-quality program start-up, potentially engaging as a Mobilization Manager in the program start-up phase.

4. PERFORM OTHER TASKS AS DETAILED AS REQUIRED BY THE REGIONAL DIRECTOR OF THE WEST AND SOUTHERN AFRICA DIVISION

COMMUNICATIONS

• External and internal communications with all parties relevant to TechnoServe, this includes staff, volunteers, public/private sector donors; consultants, partner development organizations, the regional management committee and headquarters.

RESPONSIBILITY FOR MANAGING RESOURCES

• Direct reports on assignments may include TechnoServe staff, short-term consultants, and volunteer consultants.
• Responsible for managing funds invested in the development of new proposals as well as short-term ongoing fundraising consultants.
• Additional line management, budgetary authority and operational responsibilities may be assigned.

IMPACT

Contributes to achievement of annual revenue targets for the WSA country programs and the growth of TechnoServe’s footprint in the WSA region; responsible, along with the WSA team, for improving the quality and impact of TechnoServe’s fundraising efforts. Deliverables will include:

• Opportunity assessments (including donor scans, industry scans, proposal due diligence, mini-ISPs)
• Strengthened relationships with public and private donors
• Winning proposals (including documentation that covers the proposal, concept note, lead summary, logframes, teaming agreements and budgets)
• Capacitated local staff to win new business

IV. REQUIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:

• Proven track record in successful business or program development design, experience in the management consulting industry complemented by broad technical skills in one or more of the following areas: SME, agribusiness, and/ or industry development;
• Extensive experience in designing, developing, researching and authoring quality and winning proposals preferred;
• Outstanding interpersonal and communications skills in a multi-cultural environment;
• The ability to work on short-term assignments with tight deadlines while managing multiple tasks and projects;
• The ability to work independently, and function effectively as a member of a global team, and adhere to strict deadlines;
• Interactive skills especially with field staff, technical staff, consultants and home office support staff as necessary to complete proposals;
• Related work experience and knowledge of the West Africa economic, social and development context preferred;
• B.S. or B.A. degree in business administration, economics, marketing or related discipline, MBA preferred At least 5 years of post-graduate experience in analytical and strategic roles within the private sector and/or development spheres (ideally with a top-tier management consulting firm)
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Fluency in French required
• Willingness to travel regionally and internationally up to 50% of the time

V. APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

Qualified and interested applicants should submit a Word-formatted single document consisting of cover letter, resume and salary history to jobs@tns.org. Please identify the position for which you are applying in the subject line.

Only applicants meeting minimum qualifications will be considered or contacted. No phone calls please

TECHNOSERVE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER OF MINORITIES, FEMALES, PROTECTED VETERANS, AND INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

Regional Program Manager - Food Market Development, Zambia

Reporting Unit/Supervisor:  Regional Director, West and Southern Africa
Location: Lusaka, Zambia
Travel:  International up to 30%   Domestic up to 25%

I. TECHNOSERVE BACKGROUND:

TechnoServe works with enterprising people in the developing world to build competitive farms, businesses and industries. We are a nonprofit organization that develops business solutions to poverty by linking people to information, capital and markets. Our work is rooted in the idea that given the opportunity, hardworking men and women in even the poorest places can generate income, jobs and wealth for their families and communities. With more than four decades of proven results, we believe in the power of private enterprise to transform lives.

II. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:

The UK Department for International Development (DFID) has initiated a regional food market development program in East and Southern Africa aiming to impact the livelihoods of 400,000 households through the development of stable markets for staple foods. Using the Marking Markets Works for the Poor (M4P) approach, the program aims to make staple food markets function better, ensuring interventions are inclusive of poor women and men. As part of this program, TechnoServe is seeking to implement a project to strengthen the soy market policy environment by improving access and use of market information by soy system actors; and fostering linkages between national and regional market actors. Ultimately, this project aims to contribute to improved trade policy and cross-border trade; to the financial benefit of soy traders, producers and consumers in East and Southern Africa.

III. POSITION DESCRIPTION:

TechnoServe seeks a full time Regional Program Manager (RPM) for the implementation of a regional food market development program, focusing on improved access and use of market information by soy system actors. The role of the RPM will be to ensure the program delivers on its deliverables to the UK Department for International Development (DFID).

The Regional Program Manager will provide overall strategic direction to the program; and will be responsible for delivery of all results to DFID. Specific responsibilities include:

• Provide overall program management, including technical, financial and administrative oversight.
• Assist the Country Director to ensure the project is implemented with sound managerial, technical, financial, personnel and overall programmatic practices; and that the processes and activities adhere to corporate policy, legal and contractual obligations and corporate and donor standards.
• Lead development and execution of the overall strategic vision, goals and objectives of the program.
• Lead strategic planning and contribute to implementation of all activities, related to market research, stakeholder engagement, policy dialogue, market information systems and capacity development.
• Manage long term and short term staff working on the project (and from different locations); and improve the performance of the team through mentoring and coaching.
• Lead program networking; and Build and manage relationships with private sector representatives, government officials and key institutions, as relevant to the program.
• Act as primary point of contact and liaison with TechnoServe corporate office and the client, on program implementation, financial, administrative and operational issues.
• With support from M&E expert, develop and manage implementation of M&E framework and system.
• Attend progress meetings with client and develop and submit all reporting requirements to client.

Time Period:  Anticipated to start May 2014. Phase 1 - 18 Months, with possible extension to 48 months.

IV. REQUIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:

• A Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics, Trade Policy and/or a related discipline
• At least 10 years’ experience facilitating high level public-private dialogue and promoting policy, legal and regulatory reform
• At least 8 years of program management experience
• Technical expertise in agricultural trade policy advocacy with previous experience implementing large donor programs
• Demonstrated experience in developing the institutional capacity of intermediary organisations to advocate on behalf of the private sector
• Excellent understanding of the Making Market Work for the Poor (M4P) approach
• Demonstrated knowledge of agricultural value chains, ideally, the soy value chain
• Ability to influence senior stakeholders in government, private sector and on program team/within donor organization
• Ability to structure and manage complex tasks; including experience in work planning and activity budgeting
• Excellent networking and relationship-building skills
• Excellent analytical skills
• Ability to work independently – and take initiative while also having strong team building skills
• Excellent communication skills in both written and spoken English
• Superior writing skills; and ability to develop well written, cohesive reports that are responsive to the donors’ needs
• Experience in program monitoring and evaluation for donors such as DFID and USAID
• Willingness to travel domestically and within the region

V. APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

Qualified and interested applicants should submit a Word-formatted single document consisting of cover letter, resume and salary history to jobs@tns.org. Please identify the position for which you are applying in the subject line.

Only applicants meeting minimum will be considered or contacted. No phone calls please.

TECHNOSERVE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER OF MINORITIES, FEMALES, PROTECTED VETERANS, AND INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

Senior Business Advisor - Solutions for African Food Enterprises (SAFE) Malawi

Reporting Unit/Supervisor: Senior Food Technologist/ Program Manager
Location: Blantyre, Malawi
Travel: Local travel up to 50% of the time   

      
I. TECHNOSERVE BACKGROUND:

TechnoServe works with enterprising people in the developing world to build competitive farms, businesses and industries. We are a nonprofit organization that develops business solutions to poverty by linking people to information, capital and markets. Our work is rooted in the idea that given the opportunity, hardworking men and women in even the poorest places can generate income, jobs and wealth for their families and communities. With more than four decades of proven results, we believe in the power of private enterprise to transform lives.

II. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:

Solutions for African Food Enterprises (SAFE) is a TechnoServe (TNS) program in partnership with USAID and Partners in Food Solutions, with the aims of increasing the competitiveness of the African food processing sector and expanding availability of affordable and nutritious foods. Partners in Food Solutions (PFS) is a non-profit organization formed by General Mills to link the technical and business expertise of volunteer employees from General Mills, Cargill, Royal Dutch DSM and Bühler. This program provides knowledge and technology transfer to build the capacity of African food processors, improving availability of nutritious foods and creating market opportunities for small holder farmers.

III. POSITION DESCRIPTION:

TechnoServe is seeking a Senior Business Advisor (SBA) for Malawi.  This role will support the business component of the capacity building needs of Malawi food processors. The SBA will be responsible for assisting processors with customized business planning, investment plans, capital raising, overseeing market studies and developing customized processor marketing strategies, business operations and provisions of other business advisory services.
Specifically, the Senior Business Advisor (SBA) will be responsible for all business related deliverables within the SAFE Malawi program activities notably:

1. BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT:

• Maintain project work plan and ensure timely project implementation
• Lead and facilitate the business component of the technology and knowledge transfer to supported food processors, including customized interventions with select processors as well as facilitate broader business related trainings to the sector through workshops
• Support business growth planning with selected food processors, including marketing strategies, business planning, capital raising, equipment procurement, profit and loss forecasting, finance, market and operational planning
• Develop strong understanding of local markets (both retail and food aid), oversee marketing studies for different food products and support market linkages for food processors
• Develop an understanding of the raw material supply chain and support linkages between the raw material suppliers and food processors
• Develop relations with financial lending institutions and support assisted food processing companies to access loans
• Ensure business project activities are implemented with sound managerial, technical, financial, human resource, and overall programmatic practices
• Participate in team meetings with the program team and implementing partners to track implementation progress, share learnings and provide input on the business component of our support to local food processors
• Produce statistical and narrative reports for internal and external consumption, including success stories, challenges, case studies and impact results against selected indicators
• Identify business knowledge gaps in the local food processing industry and, with our chosen partners, facilitate the design of a training module and lead implementation of this training through workshops

2. MONITORING AND EVALUATION:

The SBA will also be required to support project Monitoring and Evaluation by:

• Collecting the required impact data accurately in a timely manner and to contribute towards explanations of metric results and provide input to reports.
• Maintain strong working relationships with country food technologist, ensuring business support to their technical advice.    
• Interface with other country and regional staff to share lessons, best practices and refine our engagement model for optimal efficiency and impact
• Support country-level adaptation and use of standard templates and tools for key project deliverables
• Work with program staff to identify program business needs
• Liaise with Regional management team

3. REPRESENTATION:

• Establish and maintain strong working relationships with program implementing partners and relevant stakeholders in Malawi including government ministries, financial institutions, private sector companies, business associations and civil society organizations                                   
• Secure the support of relevant private sector firms, financial institutions, and professional business councils/ associations, and other stakeholders to support the initiative
• Represent SAFE and TNS at internal and external functions
• Understand, respect and promote TechnoServe’s values, vision and strategy in the implementation of assigned duties.

IV. REQUIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:

• Advanced degree in business related studies.
• Strong financial analysis and project management skills.
• Minimum of five years’ experience with financial, business development and /or economic or financial analysis in the private sector.
• Experience in financial auditing, business diagnostics, business ratios, and business plan development, conducting profit and loss analysis, loan requirements and loan management.
• Ability to quickly grasp the financial health and business needs of a company.
• Ability to translate financial and business needs into projects to be worked on with support from implementing partners.
• Track record of building strong client and stakeholder relationships.
• Ability to identify and understand issues and opportunities, compare data from different sources to draw conclusions, use effective approaches for developing appropriate solutions, take action that is consistent with available facts and probable consequences, communicate with and seek guidance from regional program management team.
• Proven ability and experience working with teams will be an added advantage.
• Excellent communication skills in both written and spoken English
• Willingness to be based in Blantyre, ability to travel to remote rural locations and internationally.
• A valid driving license.

V. APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

Qualified and interested applicants should submit a Word-formatted single document consisting of cover letter, resume and salary history to jobs@tns.org. Please identify the position for which you are applying in the subject line.
Only applicants meeting minimum qualifications will be considered or contacted. No phone calls please.

TECHNOSERVE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Senior Food Technologist - Solutions for African Food Enterprises (SAFE), Malawi

Reporting Unit/Supervisor: Deputy Regional Program Director
Location: Blantyre, Malawi
Travel: Local travel up to 40% of the time     

      
I. TECHNOSERVE BACKGROUND:

TechnoServe works with enterprising people in the developing world to build competitive farms, businesses and industries. We are a nonprofit organization that develops business solutions to poverty by linking people to information, capital and markets. Our work is rooted in the idea that given the opportunity, hardworking men and women in even the poorest places can generate income, jobs and wealth for their families and communities. With more than four decades of proven results, we believe in the power of private enterprise to transform lives.

II. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:

Solutions for African Food Enterprises (SAFE) is a TechnoServe (TNS) program in partnership with USAID and Partners in Food Solutions, with the aims of increasing the competitiveness of the African food processing sector and expanding availability of affordable and nutritious foods. Partners in Food Solutions (PFS) is a non-profit organization formed by General Mills to link the technical and business expertise of volunteer employees from General Mills, Cargill, Royal Dutch DSM and Bühler. This program provides knowledge and technology transfer to build the capacity of African food processors, improving availability of nutritious foods and creating market opportunities for small holder farmers.

III. POSITION DESCRIPTION:

TechnoServe is seeking a Senior Food Technologist for Malawi.  This role is critical to the knowledge and technology transfer model and the individual will be responsible for identifying appropriate processors to work with; determining their capacity building needs; defining those needs as projects for PFS volunteer experts; and facilitating the implementation of the feedback and capacity building advice. The Senior Food Technologist will also be responsible for identifying industry sector knowledge gaps and working with PFS and local institutions to conduct sector wide trainings to close these industry gaps.
In addition, the Senior Food Technologist will act as the in country program manager overseeing the activities of the Malawi team and working in close cooperation with our PFS partners to develop a pipeline of appropriate food processing companies and select companies for engagement. They will identify their capacity building needs; draft project charters and support volunteer technology/knowledge transfer. This role will supervise the Senior Business Advisor and have overall accountability for delivery against targets in Malawi.

Specifically, the Senior Food Technology (SFT) will be responsible for the following activities:
1. STRATEGY DEVELOPMENT AND COUNTRY MANAGEMENT:
The SFT will work with the Deputy Program Director, M&E manager and other management support to develop a work plan and strategy for activities towards delivering against targets, supporting target setting and monitoring and evaluation parameters. The SFT will manage a Senior Business Advisor and have oversight of the entire Malawi program. S/he will represent SAFE at a national level, including participation in program leadership meetings alongside other SAFE country program managers.

2. IDENTIFICATION OF LOCAL PROCESSORS:
The SFT will be responsible for implementing an equitable and transparent process for processor selection. S/he will consider the program selection criteria and make special effort to reach out to women processors for the broadest representation. Once local processors have submitted concept papers outlining their interest in participating in the “receiver network”, the Food Technology Specialist will be responsible for evaluating the concept notes against the selection criteria, conducting interviews and site visits, and verifying information presented in the application (including assessments with third parties, an analysis of financial health and business performance, interviews with senior management, suppliers etc.) S/he will consult with the Deputy Program Director and PFS counterpart/s to make a final selection.

3. TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER SUPPORt:
Knowledge and technology will be transferred by (a) customized interventions with selected food companies and (b) delivering workshop trainings to a broader audience on select knowledge gaps.

(A) CUSTOMIZED INTERVENTIONS:
Once the local processors have been brought into the program, the SFT will be responsible for:

• Assessing the needs of the Small and Growing Businesses (SGBs), which will include conducting a diagnostic assessment, translating the needs into specific project charters and prioritizing them, and identifying relevant SGB technologies.
• Managing progress of the local processors, including identifying their resource needs, working with the SGBs to develop a suitable program strategy and assisting the processors in developing new products/markets.
• Facilitating Technology Transfer, including helping the local processor bridge any cultural differences between itself and PFS, identifying resources required for implementation of the program, and ensuring practical knowledge transfer.
• Developing the SGB through coaching.

(B) SECTOR WIDE TRAININGS:

• Identify relevant food sector knowledge gaps
• Identify local institutions and service providers to support the training in identified knowledge gaps
• Develop with PFS and the local institution the required training manuals and modules
• Facilitate with the local institution the training to the food sector

4. MONITORING AND EVALUATION:
The SFT will also be required to support project Monitoring and Evaluation (with the support of the project M&E Manager). Specifically, s/he will be required to:

• Support the business analysts to ensure they are able to collect the required impact data accurately and in a timely manner
• Contribute towards explanations of metric results and provide input to reports
• Provide anecdotal evidence of impact, including success stories, case studies and lessons learnt

IV. REQUIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:

• Malawian national currently based in Malawi.
• B.Sc. in Food Technology or related degree, Master’s degree preferred.
• At least 5 years’ experience in food processing, preferably at least 2 in the private sector.
• Personnel management experience required.
• Strong private sector experience and entrepreneurial skills.
• Proven track record in providing technical solutions to food processors.
• Excellent problem solving and analytical skills.
• Strong interpersonal and management skills.
• Ability to generate innovative solutions in work situations.
• Good computer skills in business software (Excel, MS Project and PowerPoint).
• Excellent communication skills in both written and spoken English.
• Willingness to be based in Blantyre, ability to travel to remote rural locations and internationally.
• A valid driving license and passport.

V. APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

Qualified and interested applicants should submit a Word-formatted single document consisting of cover letter, resume and salary history to jobs@tns.org. Please identify the position for which you are applying in the subject line.
Only applicants meeting minimum qualifications will be considered or contacted. No phone calls please.

TECHNOSERVE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Program Director of SME Capacitation Program and Business Plan Competition, Benin

Title: Program Director of SME Capacitation Program and Business Plan Competition, Benin
Reporting Unit/Supervisor: Regional Director for West and Southern Africa (WSA)
Location: Cotonou, Benin

I. TECHNOSERVE BACKGROUND:

TechnoServe works with enterprising people in the developing world to build competitive farms, businesses and industries. We are a nonprofit organization that develops business solutions to poverty by linking people to information, capital and markets. Our work is rooted in the idea that given the opportunity, hardworking men and women in even the poorest places can generate income, jobs and wealth for their families and communities. With more than four decades of proven results, we believe in the power of private enterprise to transform lives.

II. POSITION DESCRIPTION:

The Program Director will lead a team of 2-6 staff to implement a business plan competition and SME capacitation support program that will reach 500 SMEs in Benin.  The program, funded by an international donor, seeks to improve the economy of Benin through a comprehensive economic development program.  The SME support program is one pillar of this broader initiative.  The donor seeks, through the program, to create a cohort of strong, growing SMEs that will support the contributions to the overall economy.  The donor expects participating businesses to increase their no. of employees, attract investment from commercial sources and to increase their revues through the program.  During the three year program, the staff will run two cycles of competitions to identify promising entrepreneurs.  The best entrepreneurs will then receive one year of intensive post-competition support to implement their business plans. 

The position availability is contingent on TechnoServe winning the tender for this project; however, the proposed project director will be named in the proposal.  Anticipated start date for the project is estimated March 2014.

III. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Program Director will ensure that the following activities are undertaken either directly or through direct reports:

BUSINESS PLAN COMPETITION

• Implement a marketing campaign in the target geography
• Develop a strategy for identification of and outreach to entrepreneurs in the target geography
• Schedule and lead workshops to socialize the program with potential entrepreneurs
• Field questions on the program for interested entrepreneurs
• Organize and execute networking events
• Manage all logistics related to program workshops and events

POST-COMPETITION SME CAPACITATION

• Evaluate competency of entrepreneurs
• Group entrepreneurs into affinity groups based on competency
• Develop curricula responsive to entrepreneurship needs
• Lead workshops for enterprises on wide range of issues (may include opening a bank account to registration to supply chain or marketing)
• Engage consultants to lead workshops on technical trainings for entrepreneurs
• Overall, ensure that entrepreneurs receive quality support throughout the program

GRANT MANAGEMENT

• Review applications by enterprises for use of grant funds (e.g.  audit services, market research, loan collateral, etc.)
• Conduct due diligence on applicants
• Establish process for pre-selecting business service providers to work with the program
• Develop rules and procedures for working with business service providers
• Review quality of work product of business service providers
• Develop rules and regulations for business advisory services provider participation in the program
• Set up and administer system for linking business advisory services providers and participating businesses 

ACCESS TO FINANCE

• Develop partnerships with financial institutions to facilitate banking relationships with participating enterprises
• Liaise with financial institutions to develop clear and consistent standards for access to finance for participating enterprises
• Develop clear training modules to train participating enterprises on path to access to finance

IV. REQUIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:

• Experience in implementing private sector or SME development assistance schemes, specifically operational capacity reinforcement, access to finance and access to market  instruments and related matching grants
• Knowledge of socio-economic, private sector environment and employment issues in WAEMU and Benin
• Knowledge of business plan competitions preferred
• Strong interpersonal and communications skills in a multi-cultural environment;
• The ability to work with tight deadlines while managing multiple tasks and projects;
• The ability to work independently, and function effectively as a member of a global team
• Interactive skills especially with field staff, technical staff, consultants and home office support staff as necessary
• Related work experience and knowledge of the West Africa economic, social and development context preferred;
• M.A.or higher degree in business administration, economics, marketing or related discipline, MBA preferred
• At least 10 years of post-graduate experience in analytical and strategic roles within the private sector and/or development spheres (ideally with a top-tier management consulting firm)
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Experience in leading/ managing donor funded projects required
• Fluency in French and English required

V. APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

Qualified and interested applicants should submit a Word-formatted single document consisting of cover letter, resume and salary history to jobs@tns.org. Please identify the position for which you are applying in the subject line.
Only applicants meeting minimum qualifications will be considered or contacted. No phone calls please. Closing date for applications is January 30, 2014.

TECHNOSERVE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Project Manager, Grant Facility Fund (GFF), Mozambique

Reporting Unit/Supervisor: Project Leader, GFF
Location: Tete, Nacala  or Maputo, Mozambique

I. TECHNOSERVE BACKGROUND:

TechnoServe works with enterprising people in the developing world to build competitive farms, businesses and industries. We are a nonprofit organization that develops business solutions to poverty by linking people to information, capital and markets. Our work is rooted in the idea that given the opportunity, hardworking men and women in even the poorest places can generate income, jobs and wealth for their families and communities. With more than four decades of proven results, we believe in the power of private enterprise to transform lives.

II. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:

TechnoServe is recruiting for several positions for an anticipated Grant Facility Fund in Mozambique. The objective of the GFF in Mozambique is to improve the ability of smallholder farms and micro-,small- and medium-enterprises (MSMEs)  in the Zambezi Valley and Nacala Corridor to access markets through market-oriented private and complementary public investments. The GFF investments are intended to have a transformative effect through access to new technology and markets increasing business returns. The GFF will focus on supporting linkages between medium/large firms and smallholder farms/MSMEs through targeted investments in public goods and services that will be executed by the private sector.
We anticipate the GFF will be a demand-driven competitive grant fund, with the competitive selection process based on demonstrated evidence of benefits to smallholder farms and MSMEs through business linkages.

THE GFF WILL FOCUS ON TWO AREAS:

1. Linking smallholder farms to agribusiness value chains
2. Linking MSMEs to the natural resources-related value chains

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE GFF WILL LIKELY INCLUDE:

1. Effective promotion, marketing and outreach to both the private sector and public institutions and establishment of a pipeline of potential applicants;
2. Technical, economic and financial appraisal of proposals;
3. Identification and resolution of potential conflict of interest issues and fiduciary risks in the contractual agreements with the private investors;
4. Control and verification of the use of funds;
5. Data collection with M&E and drawing lessons for future investments;
6. Oversight and fiduciary management responsibilities based on an agreed Procedures Manual.

III. POSITION DESCRIPTION:

TechnoServe is looking to recruit key staff positions with a range of experience covering the agriculture and extractives sectors, fund design and management and relevant experience in Mozambique.
We are seeking 2-4 Project Managers who will be responsible for originating projects, assisting in the application process, appraising projects, and contract management in implementation. Several of these PMs will be expected to have a permanent presence in the Zambezi Valley and Nacala Corridor (e.g. in Tete and Nacala).

• Assisting the Fund Manager with organizing the grant program outreach;
• Assisting the Fund Manager with the application cycle, including the timely processing of applications;
• Participating in the selection and vetting process, including reviewing application requirements and ensuring that the appropriate due diligence has been conducted and recorded;
• Coordinating the pre-award evaluation process, including organizing and attending site visits;
• Coordinating the award and disbursement process, including ensuring compliance with the technical requirements of the Grants Manual;
• Ensuring that each grant is properly documented in the fund’s database in a timely fashion;
• Performing monitoring and follow up functions; and
• Providing effective and ongoing reporting to the Fund Manager.

IV. REQUIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:

• Preferably a Bachelor’s degree in business administration, accounting, law or a related field, plus at least two  years of experience in a commercial or international project setting.
• Knowledge of donor contracts and grant regulations would be beneficial.
• S/he should have strong attention to detail and, with minimal supervision, be able to prioritize and manage a high volume work flow.
• Be a self-starter.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills and relevant computer software skills with proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel and Word).
• Strong organizational skills.
• Experience with database management systems desirable. 
• Fluency in Portuguese and proficiency in English are required.
• The successful candidate will have a strong commitment to personal integrity.
• Prefer candidates of Mozambican nationality.

V. APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

Qualified and interested applicants should submit a Word-formatted single document consisting of cover letter, resume and salary history to jobs@tns.org. Please identify the position for which you are applying in the subject line.
Only applicants meeting minimum qualifications will be considered or contacted. No phone calls please.

TECHNOSERVE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Operational Fund Manager, Grant Facility Fund (GFF), Mozambique

Reporting Unit/Supervisor: Project Leader, GFF
Location: Maputo, Mozambique

I. TECHNOSERVE BACKGROUND:

TechnoServe works with enterprising people in the developing world to build competitive farms, businesses and industries. We are a nonprofit organization that develops business solutions to poverty by linking people to information, capital and markets. Our work is rooted in the idea that given the opportunity, hardworking men and women in even the poorest places can generate income, jobs and wealth for their families and communities. With more than four decades of proven results, we believe in the power of private enterprise to transform lives.

II. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:

TechnoServe is recruiting for several positions for an anticipated Grant Facility Fund in Mozambique. The objective of the GFF in Mozambique is to improve the ability of smallholder farms and micro-,small- and medium-enterprises (MSMEs)  in the Zambezi Valley and Nacala Corridor to access markets through market-oriented private and complementary public investments. The GFF investments are intended to have a transformative effect through access to new technology and markets increasing business returns. The GFF will focus on supporting linkages between medium/large firms and smallholder farms/MSMEs through targeted investments in public goods and services that will be executed by the private sector.
We anticipate the GFF will be a demand-driven competitive grant fund, with the competitive selection process based on demonstrated evidence of benefits to smallholder farms and MSMEs through business linkages.

THE GFF WILL FOCUS ON TWO AREAS:

1. Linking smallholder farms to agribusiness value chains
2. Linking MSMEs to the natural resources-related value chains

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE GFF WILL LIKELY INCLUDE:

1. Effective promotion, marketing and outreach to both the private sector and public institutions and establishment of a pipeline of potential applicants;
2. Technical, economic and financial appraisal of proposals;
3. Identification and resolution of potential conflict of interest issues and fiduciary risks in the contractual agreements with the private investors;
4. Control and verification of the use of funds;
5. Data collection with M&E and drawing lessons for future investments;
6. Oversight and fiduciary management responsibilities based on an agreed Procedures Manual.

III. POSITION DESCRIPTION:

TechnoServe is looking to recruit key staff positions with a range of experience covering the agriculture and extractives sectors, fund design and management and relevant experience in Mozambique.
The Operational Fund Manager will assume responsibility for the operations of the GFF, including oversight of all financial, legal and reporting functions. The Operational Fund Manager will report to the Project Leader. Duties include:

• Management of the GFF’s grants team, which will be located in Maputo, Tete and Nacala
• Management of the application preparation, submission and selection process.
• Organize technical review committee members for grant application approvals
• Managing the grants database, tracking and compliance systems
• Identify gaps in operational procedures and bottlenecks that hinder program implementation in the field and achievement of program outcomes, and recommend solutions.
• Acting as a central liaison for coordination and oversight of the work carried out under the Government agency
• Manage all financial management and  administrative requirements
• Ensure all reporting, both technical and financial, to the program donors, is done timely and correctly
• Provide effective and ongoing reporting to the Program Leader on all matters relevant to the effective and efficient management of grant related issues and donor relations.

IV. REQUIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:

• Either a) a Master’s degree in business administration, accounting, law or a related field, plus ideally three to five years of experience in an international project setting, or b) a Bachelor’s degree in business administration, accounting, law or a related field, plus ideally five to seven years of relevant experience in an international project setting.
• Banking/finance, accounting or insurance background, with demonstrated management experience in a demanding compliance environment, of preference.
• Strong project management skills.
• Prefer a candidate with in-depth knowledge of grant management.
• Knowledge of donor contracts, cooperative agreements, and grant regulations would be beneficial.
• S/he should be resourceful through technology, research skills, and relationship building and, with minimal supervision, be able to manage a high volume work flow.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and relevant computer software skills with proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel and Word).
• Strong organizational skills.
• Experience with database management systems desirable. 
• Fluency in Portuguese and proficiency in English are required.
• The successful candidate will have a strong commitment to personal integrity.
• Prefer candidates of Mozambican nationality.

V. APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

Qualified and interested applicants should submit a Word-formatted single document consisting of cover letter, resume and salary history to jobs@tns.org. Please identify the position for which you are applying in the subject line.
Only applicants meeting minimum qualifications will be considered or contacted. No phone calls please.

TECHNOSERVE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Intervention Advisor, Nigeria

Reports to:  Market Sector Manager
Location:  Abuja with domestic travel, as required

I.   TECHNOSERVE BACKGROUND:

TechnoServe works with enterprising people in the developing world to build competitive farms, businesses and industries. We are a nonprofit organization that develops business solutions to poverty by linking people to information, capital and markets. Our work is rooted in the idea that given the opportunity, hardworking men and women in even the poorest places can generate income, jobs and wealth for their families and communities. With more than four decades of proven results, we believe in the power of private enterprise to transform lives.

II. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:

The UK Department for International Development (DFID) has initiated a Rural Agricultural Markets Program focused on Northern Nigeria entitled PrOpCom Mai Karfi. This five-year program aims to increase the incomes of 500,000 impoverished Northern Nigerians by 50%, with half of program recipients being women.  PrOpCom uses a Making Markets Work for the Poor (M4P) approach, which aims to accelerate pro-poor growth by strengthening markets and achieving greater fairness for poor men and women within those markets. Key industries of intervention include soy and poultry, as well as cross-cutting markets such as fertilizers and tractor services.

III. POSITION DESCRIPTION:

The Intervention Advisor will support implementation of interventions in several target markets Responsibilities may include:

• Completing high quality analysis of key markets
• Engaging with stakeholders
• Developing intervention guides for interventions being conducted in target markets
• Developing sustainable partnerships
• Developing an information base for new markets
• Developing the business case behind a market intervention
• Conducting surveys

IV. REQUIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:

• A Bachelor’s degree in economics, business, agriculture or related field
• 3-5 years’ relevant experience
• Excellent problem solving and analytical skills
• Advanced proficiency in business software (Excel, MS Project and PowerPoint)
• Excellent communication skills in both written and spoken English
• Willingness to travel domestically
• Experience working in agricultural markets in Northern Nigeria preferred
• Previous experience on M4P projects preferred
• Nigerian nationals strongly preferred

V. APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

Qualified and interested applicants should submit a Word-formatted single document consisting of cover letter, resume and salary history to tnsngrecruit@gmail.com.  Please identify the position for which you are applying in the subject line.  Only applicants meeting minimum qualifications will be considered or contacted.  No phone calls please. Closing date for applications is January 1, 2014.

TECHNOSERVE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Senior Program Manager Coffee Initiative, Ethiopia

Reporting Unit/Supervisor: Country Director, Ethiopia
Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

I. TECHNOSERVE BACKGROUND:

TechnoServe works with enterprising people in the developing world to build competitive farms, businesses and industries. We are a nonprofit organization that develops business solutions to poverty by linking people to information, capital and markets. Our work is rooted in the idea that given the opportunity, hardworking men and women in even the poorest places can generate income, jobs and wealth for their families and communities. With more than four decades of proven results, we believe in the power of private enterprise to transform lives.

II. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:

TechnoServe’s Ethiopia Coffee Initiative (CI) is funded primarily by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and aims to help over 90,000 small-holder coffee farmers improve their incomes by increasing coffee quality and production. The project was launched in 2008 and has secured funding through the end of 2015. Through its staff of 300 people the program currently trains over 50,000 farmers and supports over 100 cooperative wet mills.

III. POSITION DESCRIPTION:

The Senior Program Manager will serve on the management team of the Ethiopia Program Office and the Coffee Initiative to manage the operational activities of the coffee program including, field administration, training, credit access and program monitoring. S/he will drive key new business processes, carry out strategic analysis and develop industry strategic plan for the CI program.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

FIELD ADMINISTRATION

• Support program managers to develop detailed work plan and program budget and ensure they receive regular supervision, reviews and feedback
• Monitor program expenses against budget and participate in monthly budget reviews meetings
• Ensure field admin functions are efficiently supporting program staff
• Review and advise on administrative polices and directives
• Guide and assist on the preparation of annual operation plan of resources to improve and maximize resource utilization.

CREDIT ACCESS

• Support cooperative clients to access credit facilities, namely short-term working capital and longer term investment capital
• Work with banks, international guarantors and other partners to ensure clients have access to sustainable credit facilities (post-TechnoServe support)
• Provide mentoring and training to CI’s Credit Manager as well as local bank officers

TRAINING

• Manage CI’s training department; provide supervision and coaching to the training coordinator
• Support training coordinator to develop detailed annual work plans

STRATEGY AND LEADERSHIP

• Work closely with the Country Director to develop, present and implement the overall goals and objectives of the program
• Mentor, coach and work with program managers and other coffee initiative staff to develop technical and managerial skills so as to assume greater responsibility.
• Regularly review and update the strategic plan for the Ethiopian coffee sector
• Identify and pursue opportunities for TechnoServe to build new partnerships and expand its work in Ethiopia
• Identify key risks to the project and propose solutions to mitigating such risks

IV. REQUIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:

• Master’s degree in relevant subject preferred (e.g., business, economics, international development, etc.)
• Experience managing large projects and teams of people
• Inspirational leader of professional staff
• Solid management experience, including key skill areas such as business development, consulting, training, financial analysis and coaching
• Developing country experience with strong interpersonal and cross-cultural skills
• Strong analytic and financial modeling skills
• Excellent oral and written presentation skills in English

V. APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

Qualified and interested applicants should submit a Word-formatted single document consisting of cover letter, resume and salary history to jobs@tns.org. Please identify the position for which you are applying in the subject line. Only applicants meeting minimum qualifications will be considered or contacted. No phone calls please

TECHNOSERVE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER