Agribusiness and Value Chain Development Specialist

The consultant will be responsible for coordinating delivery of the outputs of the projects in the region that aim to Improve food systems, enhance coordination and foster agricultural investments. These targeted investments should be aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that contribute to economic growth, generate employment in rural economies – in particular for women and the youth, improve livelihoods, promote gender equality and reduce poverty. The Consultant will be responsible for building the necessary stakeholder platforms and working closely with the County Governments and other development partners in the delivery of this assignment.

Tasks and responsibilities

• Support the harmonization of the different projects into an overall program for the region.
• Provide technical, organizational and entrepreneurial skills to producers, Micro, Small and Medium Agro-Enterprises (MSMAEs) and agricultural service providers to establish and engage in inclusive, equitable and innovative business models.
• Undertake value chain and food systems analysis to identify diverse income-generating opportunities.
• Liaise and work closely with the relevant departments of the Government at regional and county level to ensure that results are met.
• Support innovative public-private partnerships for increased and effective agricultural value chain financing and business development.
• Support gender mainstreaming in agribusiness and value chain development.
• Build the capacity of agro-food value chain actors to implement food quality management systems and food loss reduction strategies.
• Prepare the necessary reports as required.

Minimum Requirements 

• Advanced university degree in Agriculture, Agricultural Economics, Business Management, or any other related field
• 10 years of experience in agribusiness investment, agricultural finance, SME development, and has a vast and consolidated network of contacts with the public sectors (ministries and agencies) as well as with the private sector (Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA), financial institutions, local agribusiness companies, fintechs, etc.).
• Working knowledge of English and Kiswahili
• National of Kenya

FAO Core Competencies

• Results Focus
• Teamwork
• Communication
• Building Effective Relationships
• Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement

Technical/Functional Skills

• Work experience in more than one location or area of work
• Extent and relevance of experience in Private sector Development
• Extent and relevance of experience in Multi Stakeholder processes
• Familiarity with the Kenyan Agriculture Sector networks

Additional Information