Technical Director - USAID Kenya PSDI at Micro Enterprises Support Programme Trust (MESPT)

Start Date: Contingent upon award

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 offtakers) 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

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