Markets Systems Development Associate

Key Responsibilities

Program Management, Diagnostics and Implementation (25%)

• Support rigorous market systems diagnostics and value chain assessments in priority sectors (livestock, solar energy, finance, logistics, agriculture, textiles, FMCG, and manufacturing) to uncover systemic constraints and leverage points.
• Map and engage diverse market actors (producers, buyers, service providers, policy influencers) to strengthen market functions and linkage systems.
• Maintain a database of high-potential enterprises.
• Oversee day-to-day coordination, implementation, and quality assurance of MSD activities.

Intervention Design and Portfolio Management (20%)

• Participate in co-designing and facilitating catalytic, market-driven interventions addressing systemic constraints.
• Align MSD initiatives with organizational objectives and coordinate with Business Growth Services & Investment departments.
• Use adaptive management principles based on ongoing market analysis and feedback.
• Promote inclusive business models for refugees and host communities.

Partnerships & External Relations (15%)

• Cultivate and maintain strategic relationships with private sector actors.
• Support market-facing activities such as exhibitions, buyer-seller forums, and trade events.
• Engage with start-ups and SMEs to identify growth barriers and co-develop pathways.
• Participate in market linkage forums, sector platforms, and ecosystem convenings.

Market Linkage Activities (30%)

• Design and execute market linkage services like buyer engagement, tender distributions, and buyer-supplier connections.
• Collaborate with consulting business advisors and Investment officers to identify suitable clients.
• Provide recruitment and training support as needed.

M&E and Adaptive Management (5%)

• Use technology-enabled tools to collect, record, and manage entrepreneur and market actor data.
• Monitor behavioral changes in market actors.
• Design and maintain results chains and systemic change frameworks.
• Implement robust M&E frameworks.

Management & Administration (5%)

• Contribute to location work plans and manage project resources.
• Coordinate with support staff (finance, admin, logistics) for seamless field execution.

Requirements and Qualifications

• Experience: 3 years of demonstrated success in Business Development Services (BDS) and market systems programs.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Project Management, Business Administration, or Entrepreneurship.
• Specialized Training: Training and hands-on experience in value chain and market systems is essential.
• Key Competencies: Excellent leadership, interpersonal, and analytical skills; creative and innovative thinking.
• Language: Fluency in English and Swahili is required. Fluency in Somali is required for the Garissa-based position.
• Contextual Knowledge: Understanding of challenges faced by refugees and local communities in business growth.