GENERAL POSITION SUMMARY:
In an effort to improve food security in GHG operational areas through improved livestock health services, production, productivity and marketing, the Veterinary Business Officer will focus on piloting private livestock health delivery models in cooperation with research institutions, Ministry of Agriculture, national veterinary pharmaceutical companies, agro vet shops, CAHWs, livestock traders, kraal leaders, farmers and a host of local government actors to improve delivery and access to quality and affordable livestock health services. The Veterinary Business Officer will work directly with businesses to pilot private veterinary franchises, CAHWs veterinary services, disease surveillance and control, and other activities that improve livestock productivity and marketability.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
• Work closely with the GHG livestock team, national pharmaceutical companies, Ministry of Agriculture, and district veterinary offices and other key partners.
• Work with National Drug Authority (NDA) and local authorities to ensure certification and licensing of private animal health businesses in the region.
• Ensure quality health service delivery to farmers, to support live animal inspection at markets and trading stations, and meat inspection activities at abattoirs.
• In collaboration with DVOs, MAAIF and national pharmaceutical companies, build the capacity of CAHWs and agrovets in disease surveillance, reporting, and vaccination.
• Support veterinary pharmaceutical companies, agrovets, farmers and extension workers on proper herd health management practices.
• Maintain close coordination with district veterinary department, ministry of agriculture, research institutions, sector working groups and development agencies.
• Monitor intervention activities and collect beneficiary information.• Identify, assess and develop networks and strategies.
• Establish procedures and guidelines to monitor and evaluate the progress and impact of economic development.
• Prepare and submit periodic work plans and activity reports to the team leader
• Apply a gender and youth lens approach to activities in the program cycle;
• Conduct himself/herself both professionally and personally in such a manner as to bring credit to Mercy Corps and to not jeopardize its humanitarian mission.
• Other duties as assigned

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE:
• A degree in Veterinary Medicine or its equivalent;
• At least 3 years of veterinary practice especially in rural communities and pastoral or agro-pastoral setting.
• Knowledge of phytosanitary standards for live animal export and/or abattoirs.
• Private sector experience and entrepreneurially skills, although not necessarily in the veterinary sector.
• Willingness to work in the field with small businesses, veterinarians, CAHWs, kraal leaders and communities;
• Ability to interact effectively with a wide range of partners; private sector, government and civil society;
• Skills in team work, networking, community dialogues and organizational development;
• Excellent reporting, communication and representation skills
• Good spoken and written English. Fluency in Ngakarimojong or Ethurr is an advantage
• Intimate knowledge of Uganda’s economy and business environment, particularly in the context of rural livestock development in Karamoja

HOW TO APPLY:
Submit your E-mailed application including a cover letter clearly stating your salary requirements, CV (with 3 referees), and copies of academic qualifications/certificates through the Human Resource Manager to mcjobs@ug.mercycorps.org. Deadline for Submission:Close of business on October 16, 2015 Only short-listed candidates will be contacted by Mercy Corps. Mercy Corps is an equal opportunity employer; female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.