Senior Officer- Blue Economy at Equity Bank Kenya

Purpose of the Role

Reporting to the Senior Program Manager Equity Group Foundation Food and Agriculture Pillar (F&A), The Blue Economy Senior Officer will provide technical support in Blue Economy and Marine Litter under a program titled ‘Financing Innovation N Entrepreneurship (FINE) program implemented through a Partnership of Equity Group Foundation, Equity Bank and NORAD. The program aims to tap the potential offered by the Blue Economy, Marine Litter, and renewable energy (Thematic areas) sector for entrepreneurship, employment, and sustainable aquatic foods.

Tasks and Responsibilities

• Identify, mobilize, and conduct sensitization forums of the project target beneficiaries, partners, and value chain actors.
• Enroll the targeted beneficiaries into the project in accordance with the project-set target and timelines.
•  Introduce the project beneficiaries to Equity Bank for them to learn and access relevant financial services based on their financial needs.
• Reporting on the various activities relevant to the program focusing on client engagement and impact reported or identified. Track progress on a weekly basis and provide routine updates as agreed with the supervisor. 
• Deliver training programs on Financial Education, aquatic food systems, biodiversity conservation and environmental protection. 
• Support Fish farmers and players in the aquatic food value chain in implementing appropriate practices to increase productivity and improve their technical, financial and entrepreneurship skill.
• Conduct regular entrepreneurs/ beneficiaries’ visits and inspections to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct analysis of production data and performance indicators to identify areas for improvement and develop strategies for increased productivity and profitability.
• Evaluate and support implementation of technologies and practices that enhance production efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and improve product quality.
• Collaborating with external stakeholders, such as government agencies, research institutions, and industry associations, to promote best practices and ensure compliance with regulations. 
• To keep abreast of relevant changes in government policy in Aquaculture that could affect the Program me and advise management accordingly. 
•  To undertake any other duty as may be directed by the line manager or Program Manager from time to time.

Qualifications

• This position requires a strong understanding of the Blue Economy and Marine Litter as it relates to aquatic food systems.  The candidate must have professional and technical skills in aquatic Food systems.  
• Bachelor’s degree in Aquaculture, Fisheries, General agriculture, Marine biology, Environmental studies, or related field. 
• Knowledge/ certification on technical skills related to aquatic food systems sustainability.
• 5 years’ experience in the aquaculture sector and a strong value chains and market engagement focus
• Good understanding of marine ecosystems, fisheries management, and sustainable development principles.
• Familiarity with relevant national and international regulations and agreements related to the blue economy is a plus.
• Passion for environmental conservation and a commitment to promoting sustainable practices in the blue economy.