Job Description: Value Chains Specialist

The Value Chains Specialist will support administrative and implementation aspects of value chain activities. This role involves tracking the progress of activities and grants managed by Objective Leads and Regional Directors, collaborating with the Value Chain Director and Grants, Subcontracts, and Procurement Director to ensure timely development, approval, and execution of delivery mechanisms. Additionally, the Specialist will oversee the achievement of implementation milestones across value chains.

Scope of Work

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Provide technical guidance for project activities in partnership with the Value Chains Director.
• Conduct comprehensive analyses of livestock and agriculture value chains to identify challenges, opportunities, and leverage points.
• Map value chain participants (producers, processors, traders, suppliers, and consumers) and assess market demands, power dynamics, and systemic gaps.
• Develop and implement strategies to strengthen production (upstream) and market access (downstream) for value chain stakeholders.
• Foster partnerships among farmers, cooperatives, suppliers, and processors to establish sustainable market linkages.

Specific Tasks:

• Introduce innovative business models and technologies to boost productivity and efficiency.
• Manage grants aimed at capacity building, infrastructure development, and technological innovation within value chains.
• Monitor grant-funded activities to ensure alignment with Market System Development (MSD) principles and program objectives.
• Promote alternative livelihoods by introducing high-value crops like saffron, almonds, and sustainable livestock practices.
• Train farmers in crop diversification, climate-resilient agriculture, and livestock management.
• Facilitate market access by connecting producers with buyers and organizing trade events.
• Work with stakeholders to ensure the economic viability of alternative livelihoods through improved post-harvest processes and market access.

Capacity Building & Advocacy:

• Promote women’s economic empowerment and ensure inclusive participation in agricultural and livestock enterprises.
• Conduct training sessions on market-driven skills, focusing on youth, women, and marginalized groups.
• Integrate climate-smart practices into interventions to enhance resilience to environmental challenges.
• Advocate for environmentally sustainable practices such as efficient water use and waste management.
• Engage private-sector actors to co-develop solutions such as contract farming and input supply systems.

Monitoring, Reporting, and Collaboration:

• Track the impact of activities on production, household incomes, and market participation.
• Document lessons learned and success stories to guide future programming.
• Collaborate with Afghan industry groups to advocate for policy reforms and develop platforms for quality assurance and certification.
• Travel to project sites, facilitate discussions with stakeholders, and contribute to technical evaluations and activity planning.
• Draft Statements of Work (SOW) for technical assistance and support firms in developing training materials.

Technical Training & Data Collection:

• Receive specialized training on value chain analysis and apply the methodology in data collection.
• Identify bottlenecks and recommend interventions to address challenges in input supply and marketing.
• Promote awareness of food safety standards and assist in obtaining certifications.

Other Duties:

• Provide coaching, build partnerships, and foster market improvements.
• Perform other responsibilities as assigned by the Value Chains Director.

Job Requirements:

• Education: Advanced degree in rural/agriculture development, agribusiness, agricultural economics, business, or related fields. A bachelor’s degree with 5 years of relevant experience or a master’s degree with 3 years of experience may also qualify.
• Experience:
  • At least 5 years on donor-funded projects in roles related to business development, market systems, or value chain strengthening.
  • Expertise in alternative livelihoods, crop diversification, and high-value agriculture in Afghanistan.
  • Experience designing market-based solutions and engaging with investors/donors.
• Skills:
  • Fluency in Dari or Pashto and English (with strong report-writing skills).
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
  • Strong team-building, problem-solving, and ethical management skills.

Submission Guidelines:

• Submit your CV through the provided link by December 7, 2024.
• Early applications are encouraged. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Limit to one application; no phone inquiries will be accepted.

Application Link: 

Submission Email: 

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