Senior Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning Manager

Senior Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning Manager

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Program Description

The USAID Yidgiri Activity is a 5-year $19.4 million-dollar project implemented by Cultivating New Frontiers (CNFA in the Centre Nord, Est, and Sahel regions of Burkina Faso. As a key part of the second phase of USAID’s Regional Resilience in the Sahel Enhanced (RISE) Initiative, Yidgiri will strengthen market systems such that household incomes and nutritional status will be substantially improved. To achieve this goal, the Activity will implement interventions across the following mutually reinforcing results areas:  1) enhanced performance of commodity market systems; 2) increased utilization of quality inputs and services; and 3) increased local consumption of nutritious, safe food.  While predominantly focusing on the cowpea, small ruminants and poultry value chains, interventions will address barriers and constraints to progress across the broader market system, while also integrating market-based strategies to promote consumption of nutritious, safe foods. Taken together, these efforts will improve the resilience of market systems by establishing profitable market linkages between producers and buyers, with a particular emphasis on women and youth.

Roles and Responsibilities:

  • Lead the design and implementation the cloud – based Yidgiri MEL system (per the approved MEL Plan) including MEL strategy, theory of change, performance indicator reference sheets performance monitoring of program activities, knowledge management, etc. and reporting in compliance with USAID and CNFA standards;
  • Lead the design and implementation of Yidjiri indicator data collection methodology/tools, and data processing/analysis processes to ensure data capture, verification, analysis and reporting meet the five USAID data quality standards of validity, reliability, timeliness, precision and integrity;
  • Train Yidjiri and sub-awardees’ staff on their responsibilities for monitoring and evaluation and on  internal indicator data quality assessment to ensure USAID Yidjiri’s indicator data meet USAID and CNFA data quality standards;
  • Draft terms of reference (TOR) and scopes of work (SOW) for baseline study, periodic assessment of specific sub-sectors and special/case studies, impact assessments, mid-term and final evaluations,  gender analysis and needed local consultancy services with regard to USAID Yidjiri MEL;
  • Coordinate the conduct of baseline study, periodic assessment of specific sub-sectors and special/case studies, impact assessments, mid-term and final evaluations as well as , gender analysis;
  • Play a leadership role in facilitating workshops to develop/review MEL plans/indicator targets to ensure efficient implementation of program activities towards achieving quarterly, annual and LOP indicator targets;
  • Work closely with other technical units in establishing and managing a cloud-based MEL system and ensure data requirements are integrated into project management processes;
  • Undertake regular field visits to support implementation of MEL and identify where adaptations might be needed;
  • Provide continuous support to relevant project staff on data collection and analysis, and to ensure timely data collection, analyses, reporting, and completion of other M&E activities;
  • Regularly review and analyze monitoring data and help organize periodic learning days and annual learning summits with staff to help managers identify successes, lessons learned, and make decisions about adapting activities and approaches to achieve results;
  • Contribute to program reporting by submitting accurate and timely MEL reports measuring USAID Yidjiri performance and impact;
  • Contribute to any ad hoc report as requested by USAID and the Government of Burkina Faso;
  • Undertake any other tasks as assigned by the COP and DCOP to ensure that USAID Yidjiri objectives are met.
  • Complete other duties as necessary and assigned by the Chief of Party.

Qualifications :

  • Minimum 5 years of experience working on monitoring, evaluation and learning for donor funded projects; USAID experience is highly desirable;
  • Master’s degree required in relevant field, or equivalent combination of education and work experience in a relevant competency area, including statistics, international development, economics or other;
  • Experience using monitoring and evaluation systems with USAID-supported indicators;
  • Willingness to collaborate, innovate and ability to think systematically;
  • Demonstrated ability to interact and communicate with wide range of stakeholders both verbally and in writing;
  • Proven experience in managing multiple and competing tasks while maintaining quality of deliverables within deadlines; and
  • Strong communication skills and ability to present and write high quality technical reports in French and English.

Required Skills:

  • MEL systems development and implementation;
  • Methods and techniques of quantitative and qualitative data collection/analysis;
  • MIS management;
  • Information systems learning management.
  • Mastering of office software (word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, etc.) and data software analysis (SPSS, Sphinx, etc.)
  • French:                         Spoken: Fluent                  Written: Fluent;
  • English:                         Spoken: Fluent                  Written: Fluent.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or protected veteran status. CNFA takes affirmative action in support of its policy to advance in employment individuals who are minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

Country Representative- Ghana

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CNFA is currently seeking applications from qualified candidates for a Country Representative in Ghana  to support a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food for Progress (FFPr) project in West Africa region (Benin, Burkina Faso, Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, and Ghana) called USDA West Africa PRO-Cashew project. The project aims to improve agricultural production and expand trade of agricultural products.  

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Contribute to the Ghana semi-annual work plans, and overall management of the project in line with USDA guidelines and within set timelines to achieve objectives;
  • Provide in-depth knowledge of the country represented to the project senior management team and aid in the development of country plans and activities;
  • Oversee program administration, operations and implementation to ensure technical and financial activities align with scope, budget allocations and internal policies;
  • Promote the grant program and support grantees in their proposal stage and compliance once awarded;
  • Lead team to provide effective coordination and guidance among academic institutions, local Government, smallholder farmers, service providers, cashew processing firms and other key stakeholders;
  • Support M&E mechanisms, program monitoring tools and efficient systems to ensure high quality implementation;
  • Ensure quality control and provide overall technical and management leadership; adjust activities and operations in response to technical direction;
  • Write semi-annual reports, and develop success stories (at least 2 per year);
  • Represent CNFA with partners and key stakeholders, at conferences, workshops, meetings, and other industry gatherings, maintain positive relationships with USDA and the US Embassy, local authorities, and the country office team;
  • Identify issues and risks related to activity implementation in a timely manner;
  • Review and approve financial and administrative documents to ensure compliance with internal and external contract and policy requirements;
  • Oversee financial and administrative activities, including monthly cash request, approval of project procurement, approval of project expenditures, and monitoring of expenditure levels against the budget; and other duties as assigned.

Key Qualifications:

  • Master’s degree or higher in a field related to agriculture, economics, or business administration from an accredited college or university;
  • Minimum of eight (8) years of international experience and expertise in agricultural development, successfully achieving meaningful and sustainable results;
  • At least seven (2) years of experience in working with counterparts at various levels of government, as well as with non-government organizations (including private sector associations/organizations) in managing international development assistance activities;
  • Experience collaborating with diverse stakeholders, such as the private sector, local NGOs, government officials, donor representatives, and local and international staff;
  • In-depth knowledge of USAID/USDA policies, and regulations;
  • In-depth knowledge of the Cashew sector in West Africa;
  • Excellent interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to lead large teams and work effectively and collaboratively in team environments;
  • Strong technical expertise, management skills, and a strong command of English technical writing and communication skills. 

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or protected veteran status. CNFA takes affirmative action in support of its policy to advance in employment individuals who are minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

 

Only those candidates selected for further consideration will be contacted.

Country Representative- Nigeria

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CNFA is currently seeking applications from qualified candidates for a Country Representative in Nigeria  to support a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food for Progress (FFPr) project in West Africa region (Benin, Burkina Faso, Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, and Nigeria) called USDA West Africa PRO-Cashew project. The project aims to improve agricultural production and expand trade of agricultural products.  

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Contribute to the Nigeria semi-annual work plans, and overall management of the project in line with USDA guidelines and within set timelines to achieve objectives;
  • Provide in-depth knowledge of the country represented to the project senior management team and aid in the development of country plans and activities;
  • Oversee program administration, operations and implementation to ensure technical and financial activities align with scope, budget allocations and internal policies;
  • Promote the grant program and support grantees in their proposal stage and compliance once awarded;
  • Lead team to provide effective coordination and guidance among academic institutions, local Government, smallholder farmers, service providers, cashew processing firms and other key stakeholders;
  • Support M&E mechanisms, program monitoring tools and efficient systems to ensure high quality implementation;
  • Ensure quality control and provide overall technical and management leadership; adjust activities and operations in response to technical direction;
  • Write semi-annual reports, and develop success stories (at least 2 per year);
  • Represent CNFA with partners and key stakeholders, at conferences, workshops, meetings, and other industry gatherings, maintain positive relationships with USDA and the US Embassy, local authorities, and the country office team;
  • Identify issues and risks related to activity implementation in a timely manner;
  • Review and approve financial and administrative documents to ensure compliance with internal and external contract and policy requirements;
  • Oversee financial and administrative activities, including monthly cash request, approval of project procurement, approval of project expenditures, and monitoring of expenditure levels against the budget; and other duties as assigned.

Key Qualifications:

  • Master’s degree or higher in a field related to agriculture, economics, or business administration from an accredited college or university;
  • Minimum of eight (8) years of international experience and expertise in agricultural development, successfully achieving meaningful and sustainable results;
  • At least seven (2) years of experience in working with counterparts at various levels of government, as well as with non-government organizations (including private sector associations/organizations) in managing international development assistance activities;
  • Experience collaborating with diverse stakeholders, such as the private sector, local NGOs, government officials, donor representatives, and local and international staff;
  • In-depth knowledge of USAID/USDA policies, and regulations;
  • In-depth knowledge of the Cashew sector in West Africa;
  • Excellent interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to lead large teams and work effectively and collaboratively in team environments;
  • Strong technical expertise, management skills, and a strong command of English technical writing and communication skills. 

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or protected veteran status. CNFA takes affirmative action in support of its policy to advance in employment individuals who are minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

 

Only those candidates selected for further consideration will be contacted.

Administrative Assistant

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Description de Programme

L’activité Yidgiri de l’USAID est un projet quinquennal de 19,4 millions de dollars mis en œuvre par Cultivating New Frontiers in Agriculture (CNFA) dans les régions du Centre Nord, de l’Est et du Sahel au Burkina Faso. En tant qu’élément clé de la deuxième phase de l’Initiative régionale de résilience au Sahel (RISE), Yidgiri renforcera les systèmes de marché afin d’améliorer sensiblement les revenus des ménages et l’état nutritionnel. Pour atteindre cet objectif, l’Activité mettra en œuvre des interventions dans les domaines suivants : 1) améliorer la performance des systèmes du marché des produits ; 2) augmenter l’utilisation d’intrants et de services de qualité ; 3) augmenter la consommation locale d’aliments nutritifs. Tout en se concentrant principalement sur les chaînes de valeur du niébé, des petits ruminants et de la volaille, les interventions permettront de surmonter les obstacles et les contraintes de progresser dans l’ensemble du système de marché, tout en intégrant des stratégies fondées sur le marché pour promouvoir la consommation d’aliments nutritifs. Ensemble, ces efforts amélioreront la résilience des systèmes de marché en établissant des liens de marché rentables entre les producteurs et les acheteurs, en mettant particulièrement l’accent sur les femmes et les jeunes.

Rôles et Responsabilités:

  • Soutient la coordination des activités du projet dans l’organisation des voyages, la logistique, d’administration et de ressources humaines ;
  • Prépare et contrôle le budget administratif, la documentation et les procédures de rapport et gère la petite caisse
  • Joue le rôle de réceptionnistes et des visiteurs directs ;
  • Soutient la coordination des activités du projet dans l’organisation des voyages, de logistique, d’administration et de ressources humaines.

Qualifications:

  • Être titulaire d’une licence en administration des affaires ou en gestion des ressources humaines ou tout d’autre diplôme équivalent ;
  • Posséder au moins 3 années d’expérience dans le soutien administratif, de préférence dans les programmes financés par l’USAID ;
  • Avoir une parfaite maîtrise des logiciels comptables.
  • La maîtrise de la langue anglaise serait un atout.

Nous sommes un employeur d’égalité des chances. Tous les candidats qualifiés seront pris en considération pour l’emploi et ne seront pas victimes de discrimination sur la base de la race, de la couleur, de la religion, du sexe, de l’orientation sexuelle, de l’origine nationale, de l’âge, du handicap ou du statut de vétéran protégé. La CNFA prend des mesures positives pour soutenir sa politique de promotion de l’emploi des personnes appartenant à des minorités, des femmes, des anciens combattants protégés et des personnes handicapées.

Seuls les candidats sélectionnés pour un examen plus approfondi seront contactés.

Input & Services Development Director / Directeur Approvisionnement d’Intrants et Services Agricoles

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Description de Programme

L’activité Yidgiri de l’USAID est un projet quinquennal de 19,4 millions de dollars mis en œuvre par Cultivating New Frontiers in Agriculture (CNFA) dans les régions du Centre Nord, de l’Est et du Sahel au Burkina Faso. En tant qu’élément clé de la deuxième phase de l’Initiative régionale de résilience au Sahel (RISE), Yidgiri renforcera les systèmes de marché afin d’améliorer sensiblement les revenus des ménages et l’état nutritionnel. Pour atteindre cet objectif, l’Activité mettra en œuvre des interventions dans les domaines suivants : 1) améliorer la performance des systèmes du marché des produits ; 2) augmenter l’utilisation d’intrants et de services de qualité ; 3) augmenter la consommation locale d’aliments nutritifs. Tout en se concentrant principalement sur les chaînes de valeur du niébé, des petits ruminants et de la volaille, les interventions permettront de surmonter les obstacles et les contraintes de progresser dans l’ensemble du système de marché, tout en intégrant des stratégies fondées sur le marché pour promouvoir la consommation d’aliments nutritifs. Ensemble, ces efforts amélioreront la résilience des systèmes de marché en établissant des liens de marché rentables entre les producteurs et les acheteurs, en mettant particulièrement l’accent sur les femmes et les jeunes.

Rôles et Responsabilités

  • Conçoit et facilite la mise en œuvre d’interventions relatives aux pratiques agricoles adaptées  aux changements climatiques et à l’amelioration d’accès des acteurs des chaines de valeurs ciblees aux intrants et conseils  agricoles de qualite.
  • Élabore des stratégies et des interventions spécifiques aux chaines de valeur ciblees et susceptibles d’impacter les systemes, en particulier les femmes et les jeunes.
  • Appuie  les acteurs du marché local dans l’identificationet la mise en œuvre des stratégies de marché afin d’améliorer leur  résilience aux chocs et  tensions du marché.
  • Facilite le developpement des liens d’affaires entre les acteurs operant au niveau des segments specifiques des chaines de valeur ciblees en vue d’accroitre l’approvisionnement d’intrants et des services de qualite
  • Joue un rôle de leadership dans le renforcement de la résilience des acteurs des chaines de valeur ciblees  aux chocs de marché par  la mise en œuvre de systèmes de marché innovants et le renforcement des capacités, tant du côté de l’offre que de la demande
  • Facilite l’accès des petits exploitants agricoles ciblés à des intrants  et  conseils agricoles abordables et de qualité par l’améliorationdes services / réseaux d’approvisionnement en vue d’accroître la productivité et les revenus agricoles;
  • Assure que l’approche technique, les méthodologies et les activités d’appui aux  fournisseurs d’intrants et conseils  agricoles soient techniquement appropriees, réalisables et pertinentes pour la réussite du programme;
  • Rédige les termes de référence (TOR) et description du poste (SOW) d’assistance technique locale aux fournisseurs d’intrants et conseils agricoles ;
  •  améliorerFacilite les collaborations stratégiques et le changement de comportement parmi les acteurs des chaines de valeur ciblees;
  • Joue un rôle de leadership lors des ateliers d’élaboration/ revuedes plans de travail trimestriels et annuels afin d’assurer l’efficacite de l’assistance technique aux services de fourniture d’intrants et conseils agricoles en vue d’atteindre les cibles d’indicateurs trimestrielles, annuelles et globales;
  • Contribue aux rapports du programme en soumettant des rapports de qualite  et a temps;
  • Être le point principal de contact avec d’autres agences et individus travaillant sur des questions connexes
  • Favorise de bonnes relations de travail avec d’autres agences et personnes resource intervenant dans les domaines d’intrants et conseils agricoles et le genre en vue renforcer  l’apprentissage et la visibilite;
  • Oriente et supervise les responsables de la chaîne de valeur
  • Contribuer à tout rapport spécial demandé par l’USAID et /ou le gouvernement du Burkina Faso;
  • Entreprendre toute autre tâche assignée par le COP et le DCOP pour assurer l’atteinte des objectifs de l’USAID Yidjiri .

Qualifications

  • Huit ans d’expérience dans la mise en œuvre de grands programmes agroalimentaires et / ou de chaîne de valeur grâce à une approche de systèmes de marché facilitateurs au Burkina Faso.
  • Expertise avérée dans la collaboration et la négociation de partenariats avec les principaux fournisseurs d’intrants.
  • Connaissances techniques en genre et développement, en particulier liées aux chaînes de valeur agricoles et à l’agriculture sensible à la nutrition.
  • Maîtrise en agro-industrie, développement rural ou domaine connexe.
  • Maîtrise professionnelle de l’anglais et du français.

Nous sommes un employeur d’égalité des chances. Tous les candidats qualifiés seront pris en considération pour l’emploi et ne seront pas victimes de discrimination sur la base de la race, de la couleur, de la religion, du sexe, de l’orientation sexuelle, de l’origine nationale, de l’âge, du handicap ou du statut de vétéran protégé. La CNFA prend des mesures positives pour soutenir sa politique de promotion de l’emploi des personnes appartenant à des minorités, des femmes, des anciens combattants protégés et des personnes handicapées. Seuls les candidats sélectionnés pour un examen plus approfondi seront contactés.

MEL Officer

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Program Description

The five-year USAID Feed the Future Nigeria Agribusiness Investment Activity aims to strengthen the enabling environment for agribusiness finance and investment. To achieve this goal, the Activity focuses on four interrelated components: improving the enabling environment for agricultural sector growth; broadening access to finance by mitigating the credit risks of agribusinesses; promoting and facilitating investment opportunities for agribusinesses to expand and scale up operations; and sustainably enhancing the performance of agribusiness micro, small and medium size enterprises (MSMEs). In line with the U.S. and Nigerian governments’ commitment to growing the non-oil-based economy, these efforts will increase the depth, breadth, dynamism, and competitiveness of Nigeria’s agribusiness sector. 

Beginning in December 2018 and closing in December 2023, the $15.7million Agribusiness Investment Activity, with Cultivating New Frontiers in Agriculture (CNFA) as the prime implementing partner, aims to viably and sustainably link thousands of MSMEs and producer organizations with high-performing commercial actors in the rice, maize, soybean, aquaculture, and cowpea value chains. As a result of streamlined regulations, more effective policies, improved production and processing practices, and significantly increased finance and investment flows, the Activity will increase the competitiveness and returns of both large, medium and small-scale agricultural enterprises. The overall objective of the Activity is to measurably improve the agribusiness investment climate in Nigeria, which plays a pivotal role in attracting foreign direct and domestic investment, leading to food security and improved nutrition.

Position Description

Reporting to the MEL Manager, the MEL Officer will support all Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) activities, and be solely responsible for managing data collection activities and maintaining all databases.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Support the design of the Activity’s MEL System, including development of Activity MEL Plans, MEL Field Manuals, Data collection toolkits, and databases.
  • Support the implementation of the Activity MEL system, including tracking and reporting of KPI status/results, periodic surveys, CLA activities, knowledge management, learning activities and reporting.
  • Ensure the collection of quality and robust monitoring data including GIS data and relevant attribution information by providing continuous supervisory support to the State Agribusiness Coordinators and other technical staff on the use of data collection tools and methods.
  • Perform monthly analysis of Activity monitoring data and submit reports/statistics showing the status of the Activity’s Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
  • Ensure that Activity databases (both digital databases and filing system for hardcopy documents) contain updated information on beneficiary stakeholders and outputs from activity supported interventions.
  • Undertake regular performance field visits to obtain beneficiary feedback, perform data quality verifications, and identify challenges, key success factors, and lesson learned.
  • Provide continuous support to technical staff on data collection and to ensure timely data collection, analyses, reporting, and completion of other MEL activities.
  • Perform the analysis and reporting of post-event evaluation assessments for trainings and events organised or co-organised by the Activity.
  • Upload Activity KPI targets and results on USAID MONITOR, Feed The Future Monitoring System, CNFA’s M&E database, and other relevant databases adhering to specified timelines and regulations.
  • Draft MEL Unit progress reports including quarterly reports, semi-annual reports, annual reports and annual work plans.
  • Ensure compliance with all requirements provided in the Activity contract, USAID regulations, CNFA standards and, if/where applicable, host country government requirements.
  • Complete other duties as necessary and assigned by the MEL Manager and/or Chief of Party.

Qualifications:

  • Minimum of 3 years’ experience working on monitoring, evaluation and learning for donor funded agribusiness and livelihood projects; USAID experience is highly desirable.
  • Degree (Master’s preferred) in relevant field, or equivalent combination of education and work experience in a relevant competency area, including statistics, international development, economics or other.
  • Experience using monitoring and evaluation systems; experience with USAID-supported indicators, including Feed the Future indicators, a definitive plus.
  • Willingness to collaborate, innovate, work hard, and contribute to a high performing and dedication group of development professionals.
  • Demonstrated ability to interact and communicate with wide range of stakeholders both verbally and in writing as well as think strategically and systematically.
  • Proven experience in managing multiple and competing tasks while maintaining high quality deliverables within strict deadlines (e.g., an ability to work under pressure).
  • Strong communication skills and ability to present and write high quality technical reports in English.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or protected veteran status. CNFA takes affirmative action in support of its policy to advance in employment individuals who are minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

Strategic Communications Manager

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Position Description

The Strategic Communications Manager will oversee project communications, including all of the Activity’s client reporting and presentation requirements as well as all external communications in country.  S/he will report directly to the Chief of Party and liaise as needed with USAID Nigeria mission representatives, other USG organizations, and bilateral national partners and stakeholders. Working closely with CNFA’s Corporate Communications team based in Washington, DC, the Strategic Communications Manager is responsible for planning, initiating and managing the full breadth of the marketing and outreach interventions, with a strong focus on capturing and promoting the reach and impact of the Activity. S/he will provide day‐to‐day management of the Activity’s communications, reporting, and outreach to various stakeholders. S/he will additionally support Activity sponsored events, such as national and international conferences and events, by organizing, branding, and producing informational materials and facilitating business participation. This position works with all project components, including the Monitoring and Evaluation and Knowledge Management team, and external stakeholders in helping optimize marketing strategies, including but not limited to collateral development, client outreach, web and mobile applications, and social media. The Strategic Communications Manager will manage one (1) staff member, the Marketing and Communications Officer.

Program Description

The five-year USAID Feed the Future Nigeria Agribusiness Investment Activity, implemented by CNFA as part of the United States Government’s Feed the Future Initiative, strengthens the business enabling environment to promote private sector investment in agriculture. To achieve this goal, the activity focuses on four interrelated components: improving the ease of doing business in the agricultural sector; broadening access to finance by mitigating the credit risks of agribusinesses; promoting investment opportunities for agribusinesses to expand and scale up operations, and building the capacity and improving the performance of agribusiness micro, small, and medium size enterprises (MSMEs). In line with the U.S. and Nigerian Government’s commitment to growing the non-oil based economy, these efforts will increase the quality, quantity, market access, and diversification of Nigeria’s agribusiness sector.

Beginning in December 2018 and closing in 2023, this $15.6 million project aims to integrate thousands of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and producer organizations as high-performing commercial actors in the value chains for rice, maize, soy, aquaculture, and cowpeas. As a result of streamlined regulations, more effective policies, improved production and processing practices, and significantly increased finance and investment flows, the project will increase the competitiveness and returns of both large and small sale agricultural enterprises. Employing a value chain approach, the Agribusiness Investment Activity aims to facilitate $200 million in new lending and $100 million in new investment across the 5 crops in the following 7 designated States: Kaduna, Niger, Kebbi, Benue, Delta, Ebonyi, and Cross River.  The USAID/Nigeria Agribusiness Investment Activity is a 5-year year, $15 million effort implemented by CNFA as part of the United States Government’s Feed the Future Initiative.  The project’s goal is to strengthen the business enabling environment to promote private sector investment in agriculture. Activities will encompass three broad but interrelated components: (i) improving the enabling environment (aka legal and regulatory framework) for agribusiness; (ii) expanding access to finance by mitigating the credit risks of agribusinesses; and (iii), promoting and facilitating investment opportunities for agribusinesses to strengthen their readiness to expand and scale up their operations. Taken together, these efforts will increase the capacity, added value, performance, and diversification of Nigeria’s agribusiness sector. 

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • In coordination with USAID, develop targeted messaging for the Activity to convey its impact and success in keeping with USAID guidelines and priorities to internal and external stakeholders.
  • Develop and maintain a communications strategy for the Activity to highlight achievements and effectively communicate progress ensuring that the strategy is aligned with CNFA’s global approach.
  • Execute the overall communications strategy (internally and externally).
  • Manage the process of developing and delivering contractual deliverables including quarterly and annual reports.
  • Maximize, to as great a degree as practically possible, the use of mobile and internet technologies in Activity communications as well as marketing and outreach strategies.
  • Support the technical teams where applicable in developing SOWs for STTA to support the
  • the identified needs of Activity partner/beneficiaries.
  • Work alongside all Activity components and cross cutting team members in helping Activity beneficiaries better understand and market their services to their target audiences.
  • Provide advice, and implement international best practice models, on how entrepreneurs and
  • MSME service providers market and communicate with each other, their stakeholders and clients.
  • Provide quality assurance related to informational content and product development including PPTs, fact sheets, case studies, success stories, brochures, profiles, and the preparation of talking points.
  • Coordinate high-profile events, delegations, and field visits by U.S. government agencies, international organizations and donors, regional economic communities (RECs), embassies, and local partners and stakeholders.
  • Take the lead in developing and maintaining the Activity website, as applicable.
  • Develop social media content for platforms such as Twitter and Facebook that are managed by the USAID/Nigeria Communications Office and the CNFA Home Office Communications Department.
  • Develop outreach materials including banners, brochures, reports and other forms of internal and external communications, and manage clearance processes.
  • Follow communications protocols as agreed upon with USAID, the Chief of Party, and CNFA’s Corporate Communications team, including receiving approvals for outreach and deliverables.
  • Represent the Activity (as needed) at events and meetings as required and liaise with relevant stakeholders, including institutional and private sector partners, to increase visibility and maximize coordination.
  • Conduct interviews and capture quotes or stories as needed for reporting.
  • Support programmatic events, trade shows, exhibitions and initiatives (e.g., conferences and other vents).
  • Support communications with the USAID Mission and other USG agencies regarding Activity implementation, knowledge management, and information dissemination.
  • Ensure program materials are branded correctly and consistently in keeping with USAID standards and branding guidelines.
  • Maintain an up to date and comprehensive Activity ‘Master Contact Database’ that can be searched by component, institution, geography, or name.
  • Manage the Marketing and Knowledge Management Officer.
  • Collaborate with technical staff on integrated Activity plans and reporting requirements.
  • Assist with the building of the capacity of Activity staff to develop reporting and promotional content from project activities; support staff with templates and reporting guidelines as needed.
  • Perform other duties as requested by the COP or DCOP as needed.

Qualifications:

  • Must be legally allowed to work in Nigeria;
  • University graduate with a degree in Marketing, Business, or a related field (Masters preferred);
  • 5 years of experience in similar work;
  • Previous experience in marketing in the field of development;
  • Prior USAID experience strongly preferred;
  • Demonstrated ability to unpack and communicate complex concepts simply with a range of
  • stakeholders and sectors;
  • Demonstrated experience in program and event management;
  • Demonstrated experience in designing communications plans, developing and implementing knowledge management tools or systems, and developing content for social media platforms;
  • Sound knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint;
  • Proficiency with Prezi, Visio or other graphic arts and desktop publishing software a plus;
  • Excellent interpersonal skills and a strong team player;
  • Ability to travel to support project work;
  • Ability to facilitate e-marketing and web-based technologies for professional purposes;
  • Experience working collaboratively with institutional and private‐sector partners and stakeholders in Nigeria;
  • Ability to work well in diverse teams but also productive working individually with minimum
  • supervision;
  • Well organized, strong analytical skills, creative thinker, innovative, demonstrated personal
  • initiative, stress tolerance, integrity and ethics;
  • Excellent written and oral communications skills in English; and
  • The ability to produce various informational products under tight deadlines. 

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or protected veteran status. CNFA takes affirmative action in support of its policy to advance in employment individuals who are minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

Deputy Chief of Party (DCOP)

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Position Description

The Deputy Chief of Party (DCOP) will work closely with and report to the Chief of Party (COP) to provide technical oversight for the Activity. The DCOP will directly oversee the four technical components of the Activity. Direct reports include the directors for each component as follows: Component 1 (Improving the Enabling Environment), Component 2 (Access to Finance), Component 3 (Facilitating Agribusiness Investment), and Component 4 (Agribusiness Performance Improvement).  The DCOP will also lead the development of the Activity’s annual work plans, annual and quarterly reports, and other requests that may come from either USAID or CNFA.  The DCOP is responsible for managing short- and long-term technical assistance (STTA), including the development of their scopes of work (SOWs) and ensuring the final reports are accurate, well-written, and meet expectations.  The DCOP, as requested by the COP, will also represent the Activity before a range of audiences and in a variety of platforms, at the national and state levels.  The DCOP will ensure all actions and interventions adhere to USAID and CNFA technical guidance and align with global best practices, including the training of staff as required.  Finally, the DCOP will also keep the COP regularly informed on all Activity matters, and assist the COP in meeting various technical, governmental, company, and USAID deliverables as requested.

Program Description

The FTF Nigeria Agribusiness Investment Activity aims to strengthen the enabling environment for agribusiness finance and investment focusing on the following five key value chains: rice, cowpea, soy, maize and aquaculture. The Activity seeks to viably and sustainably link thousands of MSMEs and producer organizations with high-performing commercial actors in the targeted value chain in 7 Nigerian states; namely, Benue, Kaduna, Niger, Kebbi, Delta, Ebonyi, and Cross River. The overall objective of the Activity is to measurably improve the agribusiness investment climate, which plays a pivotal role in attracting foreign direct and domestic investment, leading to food security and improved nutrition for all Nigerians.

To achieve this goal, the Activity focuses on four interrelated components: (i) improving the enabling environment for agricultural sector growth through legal and regulatory reform; (ii) broadening access to finance by mitigating the credit risks of agribusinesses; (iii) promoting and facilitating investment opportunities for agribusinesses to expand and scale up operations; and (iv) sustainably enhancing the performance of agribusiness micro, small and medium size enterprises (MSMEs). In line with the U.S. and Nigerian governments’ commitment to growing the non-oil-based economy, these efforts will increase the depth, breadth, dynamism, and competitiveness of Nigeria’s agribusiness sector.

Beginning in December 2018 and closing in 2023, this $15.6 million project aims to upgrade and facilitate thousands of linkages between small and medium enterprises (SMEs), including producer organizations, and high-performing commercial actors in the target value chains.  As a result of streamlined regulations, more effective policies, improved production and processing practices, and significantly increased finance and investment flows, the Activity will increase the competitiveness and returns of both large and small sale agricultural enterprises. Employing a value chain approach, the Agribusiness Investment Activity aims to facilitate $100 million in new lending and $100 million in new investment.  

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Working closely with the Chief of Party to provide technical and managerial oversight for the Activity, including the development and implementation of the Activity’s annual work plans, quarterly and annual reports, and other requests that may come in from USAID and CNFA.
  • Working closely with other senior managers to ensure that the Activity consistently employs the values of CNFA, ensures the highest ethical standards, emphasizes the importance of communication and team work, promotes collaboration with other donor-funded projects and activities, adheres to USAID and CNFA technical guidance, and directly contributes to the attainment of the Activity’s contractual deliverables;
  • Managing the development, design, and implementation of all Component-led interventions, taking place in and outside of Abuja, including the seven focal states. This includes taking responsibility for STTA SoWs, supporting the recruitment and selection of STTA consultants, scheduling and mobilization, field implementation, and final acceptance of the work completed;
  • Drafting, editing, and making material contributions to Activity documents, including but not limited to weekly snapshot reports, quarterly and PowerPoint presentations, annual reports, studies, papers, survey instruments, and other operational and MEL-related documentation;
  • Maintaining rigorous focus on the achievement of the Activity’s Key Performance Indicators (KPIs);   
  • Managing the implementation and coordination of all events, technical forums, conferences, and roundtables;
  • Effectively backstopping and supporting long- and short-term consultants;
  • Representing the Activity and CNFA in meetings with the private and public sector stakeholders as requested by the COP;
  • Other duties as assigned on an ad hoc basis by the COP.

Qualifications:

  • Master’s degree, or higher, in economics, business administration, public administration, agriculture, or a related field
  • Minimum of seven (7) years of relevant, progressively responsible management experience;
  • Demonstrated experience and a proven track record of implementing and/or managing activities focused on agricultural development
  • A combination of technical familiarity and management skills that span the subject areas covered by the Activity; and in-depth experience in at least one of the major areas of project involvement (agricultural finance regulations, agricultural finance services, capacity building for agribusinesses)
  • An in depth understanding of the public sector organizational and functional structure at the Federal and State levels
  • A current professional network in the most relevant ministries and offices of Government at the Federal and State levels is an advantage 
  • Demonstrated experience in the following areas:
  • effectively backstopping and supporting long- and short-term consultants;
  • ensuring efficiency across a wide variety of project activities involving economic growth, private sector development, women and youth empowerment, upskilling, business linkages, and job creation; and
  • maintaining rigorous focus on project indicators, results, and more generally supporting the M&E and communications functions.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills in English is required, knowledge of local languages is an advantage.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or protected veteran status. CNFA takes affirmative action in support of its policy to advance in employment individuals who are minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

Nutrition Director

Posted On: Filed Under:

Position Summary:

 

The Nutrition Director will provide technical direction for all nutrition-related design work, implementation and reporting across CNFA’s program portfolio and will contribute to new business development initiatives as necessary. This position will be responsible for developing in-house tools and nutrition-sensitive program concepts across the organization. Additionally, the Nutrition Director will provide technical support and contribute to staff training and mentoring in areas including local market food systems, nutrition-sensitive food system analysis, food and nutrition transformation, etc. The person in this position will represent CNFA to external audiences to showcase nutrition systems and programming. The Director will work in close collaboration with CNFA’s program and new business divisions and will require regular travel to the field in support of CNFA’s global project portfolio. This is a position based out of our DC head office. 

Key Activities for this Role Include:

  • Designing country, regional and global nutrition programming that integrates innovative approaches and applied best practice;
  • Maximizing impact in-country projects by supporting innovative programming and developing core tools and guidance for best practice, and providing demand-driven support to field-based program implementation to help country teams deliver maximum impact;
  • Drawing out the experience, knowledge, and evidence generated by field programming and identifying ways to disseminate across programs and externally as a contribution to the global evidence base.

Responsibilities: Technical Implementation

  • Provide technical oversight on nutrition-sensitive agriculture program implementation;
  • Lead global strategic thinking on nutrition for the organization
  • Support field teams to design and develop country level nutrition activities;
  • Provide technical input into nutrition specific target and strategies for CNFA projects;
  • Collaborate with Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning Team to include nutrition in project evaluation;
  • Provide technical direction to nutrition-focused implementing partners on projects;
  • Provide training and consultations to home office and field office employees as needed;
  • Participate in conferences and workshops on international and local scales;
  • Facilitate the dissemination of global best practices to field staff and in field programs;
  • Provide leadership in nutrition-sensitive topics to donors and partner organization.

Responsibilities: New Business Development:

  • Design nutrition sensitive interventions for agriculture development programs for competitive donor bids;
  • Undertake leadership role in proposal development in concert with New Business Team, analyzing and recommending bid decisions, and conceptualizing teaming, technical approaches, and cost strategies to maximize competitive advantage.
  • Serve as proposal technical writer, providing vision and leadership to proposal team, and mentoring and supervising the application of best practices for nutrition;
  • Support resource mobilization for nutrition by identifying opportunities and cultivating partnerships in support of technical vision.

Required Education and Experience:

  • MA/MS or PhD in a Nutrition, Public Health or related field;
  • A minimum of 10 years of experience in nutrition related program implementation or design;
  • Experience assisting food security/agriculture related programming and Title II programming preferred;
  • Experience designing and managing nutrition surveys;
  • Experience in quantitative and qualitative nutrition research required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Demonstrated experience leading successful international health proposal design and development
  • Strong working knowledge of donor (USAID, FFP, USDA, DFID, GIZ, WB, et al.) priorities and regulations;
  • Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple tasks simultaneously and meet deadlines;
  • Demonstrated ability to solve complex technical problems in a timely and successful manner;
  • Accuracy, attention to detail and client focused with the ability to work collaboratively as part of a team using a solution-oriented approach;
  • Ability to relate to and communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders;
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English.
  • Ability to work in French or other second language preferred;
  • At least 3 years of field experience, preferably in Africa or Asia;
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively as a member of a fast-moving team
  • Willingness to contribute at different levels required to achieve success
  • Self-motivated and ability to work independently;
  • Advanced computer skills with Microsoft Office;
  • Ability to travel domestically and internationally (up to 25% of time) as needed.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or protected veteran status. CNFA takes affirmative action in support of its policy to advance in employment individuals who are minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.