Business Development Specialist Zimbabwe
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises and is at work in over 40 countries. The IRC has been working in Zimbabwe since 2008 implementing programs in Economic Recovery and Development, Health, WASH, GBV and Capacity Building. The IRC’s Economic Recovery and Development work in Zimbabwe has assisted thousands of smallholder farmers with training, market linkages and access to inputs and finance.
In anticipation of a multi-year livelihoods and food security program, the IRC is seeking an experienced professional to lead the program’s marketing portfolio. The program is expected to address rural livelihoods, agriculture and natural resource management. This will include support to rural farming and smallholder farmers in Zimbabwe to better land use regimes, improve yields, sustainably increase incomes, reduce malnutrition, develop inclusive business models and strengthen private sector partnerships.
The ideal candidate will have demonstrated experience in business development, with a capacity to identify business opportunities and develop inclusive business models for linking smallholder farmers/SMEs to markets. The Business Development Specialist will need to work closely with the Marketing Specialist and the Team lead to identify non-farming economic opportunities for rural populations (e.g value addition, post-harvest processing, small business initiatives). The candidate will be the focal point for development of inclusive and sustainable trading relationships that include groups typically marginalized in farming such as women and youth. Candidates with private sector experience are strongly encouraged to apply. The candidate will be required to manage teams and budgets under the leadership of the Team Leader and senior leadership in the country program, and will receive technical support from the IRC’s technical advisors.
Major Responsibilities:
Design and manage the business development strategy for the program to support economic development and development of livelihoods for rural populations in several districts in Zimbabwe;
- Lead the design and implementation of market assessments and value chain analysis to identify non-farming business opportunities for rural populations in Zimbabwe;
- Identify risks associated with identified opportunities and ensure appropriate mitigation strategies are included in program activities;
- Lead the development of business models and plans to enable program beneficiaries to access finance through various private and donor-supported sources;
- Facilitate training for program beneficiaries in business management and entrepreneurship;
- Establish and nurture strong trading relationships among all value chain actors;
- Promote inclusive innovation and adoption of best practices to ensure meaningful participation of women and youth in the economy;
Location and Expected Duration:
Zimbabwe (field and HQ), 5 years
Required Qualifications:
- At least 7 years of relevant experience in similar contexts. Experience working in the private sector an added advantage;
- Demonstrated experience in successful development of business models and plans for smallholder farmers and SMEs and support to launch of entrepreneurial ventures;
- Preferably Masters degree or equivalent in business/marketing or related discipline;
- Strong experience in and understanding of Southern African markets, and Zimbabwe in particular;
- Prior experience with market and value chain analysis;
- Excellent analytical and writing skills;
- Excellent knowledge of English. Working knowledge of Shona/Ndebele is an advantage.
Zimbabweans and qualified female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. This position is contingent on the IRC being awarded funding.
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