Sierra Leone: Value Chain Specialist
May 21, 2017
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Catholic Relief Services
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CRS and its consortium partners are implementing a 5 year Feed the Future activity through USAID. This activity is in alignment with the Government of Sierra Leone priorities and will be implemented in Tonkolili District. The goal of the project is for Sierra Leone to improve the agricultural and food security situation of its population by sustainably reducing rural poverty and improving nutrition through the integration of agriculture and nutrition interventions.
The intermediate results of the activity are:
- Increased Income led by Strategic Value Chain Investments
- Improved Nutritional Status, especially among women and children
The Sub-Intermediate Results are:
- Improved Agricultural Productivity
- Expanding Markets Access
- Increased Access to Diverse and Quality Foods
- Improved Nutrition-Related Behaviors
The focus operation area for this activity will be in the Tonkolili District. The proposed activity is expected to include substantial use of voluntary technical assistance, mostly from America through the Farmer to Farmer modality, in pursuit of the activity’s objectives.
JOB SUMMARY
The Value Chain Specialist will:
- Oversee day-to-day planning, design and operations of project teams (50 people in field office and 5 direct reports) to ensure effective project implementation.
- Work with upstream and downstream producer organizations in selected value chains, namely groundnuts, maize, vegetables and rice.
- Develop and deliver training materials/modules on various aspects or functions of a value chain in:
o Evaluating investment needs to upgrade production (and processing),
o Developing a bankable business plan,
o Accessing finance,
o Improving production practices,
o Upgrading post harvest, handling and storage,
o Adding value through processing, shipping and packing, and
o Establishing strong working relationship with buyers.
- Work closely with producer and trader umbrella organizations in the district to provide technical and organizational assistance.
- Support staff in establishing and expanding rural savings and increasing access to financial services.
- Support staff in implementation and monitoring of the grant facility.
- Work with partners and other stakeholders to strengthen input supply network.
Position Competencies:
- Collaborates effectively with staff and stakeholders
- Manages financial resources with integrity
- Applies program quality standards to program design and organizational learning
Agency-wide Competencies: These are rooted in the mission, values, and guiding principles of CRS and used by each staff member to fulfill his or her responsibilities and achieve the desired results.
- Serves with Integrity
- Models Stewardship
- Develops Constructive Relationships
- Promotes Agriculture
Key Working Relationships:
Internal: Country Representative, Head of Programming, Head of Operations, Logistics Manager, Finance Manager, Administration/Human Resources Manager, project managers, project staff, and regional technical staff.
External: District Council Chairman and District administrator, District Agriculture Office and District nutrition team, local partners, MAFFS, other government officials, Farmer to Farmer volunteers, USAID, project consultants, UN, and other international and local NGOs.
Personal/Professional Skills:
- Strong organizational and planning skills
- Ability to think critically, effectively manage change and problem solve
- Excellent report-writing skills in English, for USG donors
- Excellent communication and inter-personal skills, with demonstrated strength in relationship management
- Ability to be flexible, persistent, and diplomatic and to gain respect among staff, local community leaders, church and secular partners, as well as local government ministries and donor organizations.
- Ability to function effectively as part of a multi-cultural team
Qualifications
The Value Chain Specialist will have:
- Master’s degree and a minimum of 5 years’ progressive experience in economic growth, value chain enhancement and/or agricultural development programs, input supply system strengthening, primarily on USAID-funded value chain programs.
- Demonstrated success in implementing programs aimed at increasing the competitiveness and inclusiveness of agricultural value chains.
- Experience managing development programs preferably in West Africa.
- Excellent English writing and speaking ability.
About CRS:
Catholic Relief Services carries out the commitment of the Bishops of the United States to assist the poor and vulnerable overseas. Our Catholic identity is at the heart of our mission and operations. We welcome as a part of our staff and as partners, people of all faiths and secular traditions who share our values and our commitment to serving those in need
Disclaimer: This job description is not an exhaustive list of the skill, effort, duties, and responsibilities associated with the position.
CRS’ talent acquisition procedures reflect our commitment to protecting children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation.