Technical Director, USAID Kenya Private Sector Development Initiative at Micro Enterprises Support Programme Trust (MESPT)

Project Overview:

MESPT is recruiting a Technical Director for the anticipated USAID Kenya and East Africa Private Sector Development Initiative Activity. The activity is focused on accelerating ag-led growth in Kenya through partnerships with larger agricultural sector firms (such as processors and off-takers) and expansion of smallholder farmer out-grower schemes. The anticipated activity will focus on creating jobs and generating large scale increases in sales/exports in the agriculture sector cost-effectively and, ideally, through a sustainable and locally led vehicle.

Role:

The Technical Director, will, in coordination with the Chief of Party, be responsible for managing the project’s technical intervention strategy, work planning, and activity design. S/he will have direct oversight and management of the technical advisory team. S/he will provide technical direction and support to interventions across all objectives.

Qualifications

• Minimum of eight (8) years of experience in designing and implementing agriculture projects.
• Minimum of five (5) years of successful experience as the technical manager or equivalent position for donor-funded projects of similar magnitude and complexity.
• Strong technical understanding of market systems, private sector development, Agri-finance, and agricultural enabling environment approaches
• Extensive experience working in the financial sector, including a wide range of financial instruments (debt, equity, blended finance)
• Track record working with investors, financial institutions, SMEs, government, and other key project stakeholders
• Master’s degree in Agricultural Development, Agricultural Economics, Business, International Development, Public Policy, or another related field.
• Previous experience in Kenya or another East African country required.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Fluency in English required.
• Local candidates are strongly encouraged to apply