PROGRAMME/DEPARTMENT SUMMARY:
Mercy Corps has been operating in Uganda since 2006 and works to catalyze change makers within the Ugandan private sector, civil society and government to create economically dynamic, healthy and secure communities. Our works focus on building resilience and enable economic growth, improve opportunities to attain better health and nutrition, and improved governance and conflict management. We implement programs in the northern districts of Pader, Kitgum, Agago, Lamwo, Kaabong, Abim and Kotido with funding from USAID, USDA, Walmart Foundation, SDC, DFID as well as other private donations. Mercy Corps’ programs in Kitgum currently focus on economic and market development, agriculture, financial services, and women’s empowerment.
Mercy Corps is looking for a qualified Ugandan to fill the position of Agribusiness Officer for market development programs that focus on enhanced small holder farmer production and productivity, improved performance of targeted commodity markets and improved access to financial services.
GENERAL POSITION SUMMARY:
Reporting to the Agribusiness Specialist, the Agribusiness Officer is a technical position for Mercy Corps Uganda with responsibilities including businesses’ capacity assessment and research; capacity building support to program targeted agribusinesses including technical advice, mentorship and coaching; and facilitating linkages to supporting services for improved coverage and outreach. The Agribusiness Officer will work closely with the program team across components and the Monitoring Evaluation Learning and Communication department to ensure quality program implementation, monitoring, and evaluation.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
§ Work closely with the Agribusiness Specialist and Agribusiness team in designing and implementation of agricultural business capacity building interventions of the project according to the approved work plan and budgets, project document and implementation strategies.
§ Identify the capacity gaps of small and medium businesses, design and implement most feasible capacity building interventions based on identified gaps.
§ Provide continuous technical assistance, capacity building support, mentoring and coaching to agribusinesses that the program is working with.
§ Actively participate in the periodic program planning, review and reflection meetings and sessions.
§ Prepare periodic work plans and progress reports, including producing content on weekly basis to the program knowledge management system.§ Prepare accurate and timely reports and other project documentation and communication that contribute to a learning organization.
§ Assist in all other tasks and duties as assigned by supervisor and program managers.
§ Conduct himself/herself both professionally and personally in such a manner as to bring credit to Mercy Corps and to not jeopardize its mission.
KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE:
§ First degree in Agriculture/Agribusiness, Business Administration, Economics, Development Studies or related fields;
§ A minimum of three years relevant experience with proven technical experience in the field;
§ Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
§ Excellent computer skills, specifically in MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint;
§ Excellent attention to detail and ability to complete tasks in a timely manner;
§ Excellent teamwork abilities and interpersonal skills;
§ Demonstrated flexibility, creativity and enthusiasm as well as a willingness to learn and to be continually adaptive within a dynamic and often self-directed working environment mandatory;
§ Ability to focus on day-to-day tasks at hand while also working towards longer-term objectives with an understanding that these will change continuously;
§ Willingness to spend much time in the field and work closely with program target groups.
SUCCESS FACTORS:
The ideal candidate will;
§ Have the ability and curiosity to work comfortably and effectively in the cultural, relatively poor infrastructure of Acholi sub region.
§ Be an excellent communicator, have a strong sense of humor, multi-tasker, and able to work difficult and often stressful environments.
HOW TO APPLY:
Applications:Submit your application including a cover letter clearly stating your salary requirements, CV (with 3 referees), and copies of academic qualifications/certificates to the HR/Admin Manager, Kampala Head Office on 4thFloor Embassy Plaza, Plot 1188-1190 Ggaba Road. E-mailed applications with cover letter to mcjobs@ug.mercycorps.org will also be accepted. Deadline for Submission:Close of business on Thursday, 18th June, 2015.Only short-listed candidates will be contacted by Mercy Corps. MercyCorps is an equal opportunity employer; female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.