Agriculture Advisor at SNV Netherlands Development Organisation

Background

SNV has been working in Kenya since 1967. In Kakuma and Kalobeyei, SNV has put a mark as a formidable facilitator of commercially viable markets for renewable energy products and services for households and SMEs. SNV continues to work in underserved areas facilitating energy access for lighting and cooking needs for households, SMEs and institutions through Biogas, Clean cook stoves & Fuels and Solar.

In keeping with the Sustainable Development Goals, Kenya is increasing access to modern energy services for her people. Access to affordable energy is an essential prerequisite to achieving economic growth and poverty reduction. SNV is very keen to support this ambition by employing diverse innovative ways/models and to grow beyond the above two locations.

The Position

SNV Kenya is seeking a qualified and result oriented professional to fill the post of “Agriculture Advisor”. Reporting to the Project Manager, the Advisor will be the technical advisor (TA) to the project team, private sector partners and community on land use management, farming and agroforestry.

Responsibilities

Specific activities and responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Implementing, scaling up and replicating interventions focused on expansion of farming activities;
• Undertaking business model(s) analysis based on local cost assessments;
• Technical advice (TA) to private sector partners looking;
• Contributing to analysis, knowledge and solution development around agriculture themes of the project and especially up-scaling, sustainability and inclusion of women and youth;
• Liaising, coordinating, and garnering support from stakeholders (central or local government, other financial service providers, projects, etc);
• Contributing to project’s Management for Results Framework and system (including evaluation and reporting), in close collaboration with the PM as the M&E responsible officer;
• Working in close coordination with the rest of the team and undertaking additional assignments as requested by the team leader;

Candidate profile

• Degree in a related field of study preferred, e.g. agricultural engineering, water resources management, Irrigation engineering, etc.;A Master degree will be an added advantage;
• 7 years’ experience in agriculture (special focus agricultural extension work; and preferably small scale irrigation infrastructure and experience and knowledge of working in the Kenyan agricultural sector);
• Proven record of accomplishment in capacity building of micro and medium size enterprises development and insight into problems and constraints in stimulating entrepreneurship more so in the rural areas;
• Field-based experience at the farmer level and working with farmer groups, private sector partners and NGO’s/ Associations;
• Knowledge of Kenyan environmental and agriculture legislation and issues preferred;
• Familiarity with Government of Kenya structures and reporting systems desirable;
• English language written and verbal fluency essential.

Other Requirements:

• Strong intercultural skills, excellent networking skills and high level learning skills;
• Ability to work independently in various environments and geographic settings;
• Strong commitment, passion and positive attitude to work;
• Strong communication and writing skills;
• Proficiency in MS-Office and other computer applications;
• Good interpersonal skills;
• Ability to work in a team and be self-motivated;

Desired start date: as soon as possible.

Duration of contract: 
2 years initial contract term with possibility of extension.