Jul 30, 2013

Chemonics International Inc., a leading international development firm based in Washington, D.C (www.chemonics.com, seeks qualified candidates for a five-year agricultural value-chain development project funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The positions will be based in Kano. Any successful candidates will possess the following:

Job Title: Sorghum Value Chain Manager:

Location: Kano

.General Summary of Sorghum Value Chain Manager:
The Sorghum Value Chain Manager shall coordinate all activities, including liaising with agro-processors, conducting feasibility studies for increasing value to Sorghum, facilitating farmer mobilization, creating awareness about Sorghum value chains, monitoring subcontractors' technical assistance activities, handling post-harvest activities and the agricultural enterprise curriculum. S/he will be responsible for managing the farmer-investor relationship and the activities of private service providers hired by the project.

He/She will supervise on-farm demonstrations about improved technologies and new practices required by specific buyer(s) to improve competitiveness at the farm level. Additionally, the Sorghum Value Chain Manager will assist with the development of training and training materials in collaboration with private service providers hired by the project. The Sorghum Value Chain Manager will assist with M&E activities, draft scopes of work and provide inputs for periodic and quarterly reports.

The specific duties include but are not limited to the following tasks:
◦Liaise with client firms, other stakeholders and subcontractors to assist with the planning, implementation and monitoring of sorghum-specific activities including, but not limited to: monitoring of subcontractor technical assistance activities and ensuring timely and effective delivery of quality products consistent with expected milestones and results.
◦_Provide constant supervision of subcontractor technical assistance activities including on-farm demonstrations, training activities, and pilot activities to improve both competitiveness at the farm level, as well as efficiency and effectiveness of raw material supply to processors.
◦In collaboration with client agro-processors, develop conditions for outgrower "contracts" and arrangements that are acceptable for both sides (outgrowers and client agro-processing firms).
◦Assist client agro-processing firms with the development of harvesting, collection and transport plans that minimize costs and risks.
◦In addition to technical tasks, the Sorghum Value Chain Manager will assist with M&E activities, drafting scopes of work and provide inputs for quarterly reports, other periodic reports, and work planning exercises.
◦Produce work products in conformity with the project and clients' standards.
◦Communicate information in a way that demonstrates a basic understanding of development assistance work, the project culture, values, and practices, and the specific scope and nature of the project.
◦Perform other tasks as required by the Northern Regional Office Senior Program Manager.
Qualifications/experience:
First degree in agronomy, agricultural economics or related discipline, and more than ten years of professional experience in extension work, training and institutional linkages. Master's degree in agronomy is preferred.
Demonstrated experience in Sorghum production and processing and market-led agricultural development required. Knowledge of USAID project or commodity value chain development is a strong advantage.
Demonstrated ability to provide technical and marketing assistance to farmers and agro-processors is desirable. Experience developing and promoting environmentally sustainable agricultural production and processing techniques is also advantageous.
Ability to work collaboratively and build alliances with relevant groups, organizations, agencies, businesses, in private or public sectors is important. High level of initiative and creativity. S/he must be a team player, able to work effectively with people of diverse backgrounds and cultures.
Strong organizational and work prioritization skills, attention to detail, ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Demonstrates leadership, versatility, and integrity.

Application Closing Date
 9th August, 2013

 Method of Application
 Please, apply only if you have the required qualifications and work experience by emailing a full CV detailing all relevant professional experience and achievements, a cover letter detailing qualifications in relation to the position, and three professional references not later than August 9, 2013 to recruitment@nigeriamarkets.org. Please specify 'the position' in the subject line. Only qualified candidates will be contacted. Chemonics is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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