KCEP Value Chain Development Specialist Job in Nairobi Kenya

Background: The Kenya Cereal Enhancement Programme (KCEP) will be implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries (MoALF) with funding by the European Union (EU) and supervision by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). 

The Programme which shall cover 8 counties has the objectives of contributing to national food security by increasing the production of the targeted cereal staples (Maize, Sorghum and Millet and pulses), increasing incomes of the smallholders in the production areas, and supporting smallholder farmers in graduating from subsistence to commercial agriculture. 

The programme will run for a period of seven (7) years. The Programme Coordination Unit (PCU) for KCEP located in Nairobi shall be responsible for the overall coordination and management of the programme. 

In addition, the programme will have two sub-units of the PCU, one in Nakuru and the other in Siakago Town (Embu County).

Re-Advertisement: Value Chain Development Specialist (VCS)- Nairobi 

Ref. VCS03

Reporting to the PC, the VCS shall coordinate the KCEP activities for value chain support.

Responsibilities

• Guide service providers on the identification, planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of value chain support activities, including the promotion of entrepreneurial skills in farmers’ organisations;
• Facilitate linkages and contracts between business model stakeholders including distributors, local promoters and farmers;
• Ensure adequate synergies between Components 2 and 3 of the programme, in collaboration with the Financial Services Expert;
• Monitor the development of innovative business models and, in collaboration with the Knowledge Management and Communication Officer and the Planning and Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, ensure related knowledge management, including the identification of policy lessons, and participate in developing the Programme Learning System;
• Guide the preparation and implementation of the various value chain related studies;
• Contribute to the preparation of the AWPB and progress reports;
• Undertake any other duty assigned by the PC.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Agriculture, Agribusiness, Rural Development or a related discipline from a recognized university.
• At least 8 years working experience in a similar field, 3 of which in senior management position;
• At least two recent professional experience proving that the candidate has been directly responsible for:

1. Identification and development of guidelines for specific value chains
2. Managing the consultative process during the identification of specific value chains
3. Developing specific analysis on bottlenecks affecting development of value chains
4. Conducting Training need assessment for the promotion of specific value chains.

• Demonstrated experience in facilitating value chain development, value chain analysis and in building capacity of value chain actors;
• Knowledge of technologies and issues for value chain development, business development, and rural livelihoods;
• Strong computer and communications skills (oral, written, presentation);
• Strong proposal and report writing skills.

Application Process
 

1. Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for the above positions. Female candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.
 

2. Each application should be accompanied by a CV and cover letter indicating the Reference Number for the position. 

The prescribed format of the CV should be downloaded from the ministry’s website: www.kilimo.go.ke/downloads. 

Applicants for positions in the Nakuru or Siakago Town sub-units should clearly indicate the preference (Nakuru or Siakago) as in the reference numbers. 

Photocopies of Identity Card and relevant certificates and credentials should be enclosed.
 

3. Those who had previously applied should re-apply if they meet the qualifications
 

4. Each application in a sealed envelope should be addressed to:
 

The Principal Secretary
Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries
State Department of Agriculture
P.O. Box 30028-00100,
Nairobi.
 

The applications should be received by Friday, 10th October 2014 at 10.00am. 

Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.