ACDI/VOCA
Since 1963 and in 148 countries, ACDI/VOCA has empowered people in developing and transitional nations to succeed in the global economy. Based in Washington, D.C., ACDI/VOCA is a nonprofit international development organization that designs and delivers technical and management solutions in agriculture, economic growth, and resilience to promote economic prosperity and social inclusion.
Senior Horticulture Specialist, Lesotho
ACDI/VOCA is seeking a Senior Horticulture Specialist for an upcoming Market Driven Irrigation Horticulture (MDIH) Activity in Lesotho funded by Millenium Challenge Corporation (MCC). The program aims to ensure that strong legal and policy frameworks are in place in Lesotho to support the growth of irrigation throughout the country in an equitable and sustainable way. It intends to achieve this goal by improving the capacity of government and other institutions to deliver and sustain the services necessary for inclusive growth in irrigated horticulture.
The Senior Horticulture Specialist will manage value chain assessments that inform interventions following a facilitative approach that promotes lasting sustainability. The program is anticipated to start in 2024 and this position will be based in Lesotho.
Responsibilities
- Lead design of program interventions that identify and develop new market opportunities that seek to upgrade the potential of selected horticulture value chains
- Develop value chain strategies for working with producers and enterprises to build capacity for identifying and responding to business opportunities in selected horticulture value chains
- Ensure that program strategies facilitate strategic, commercially viable partnerships between value chain actors, especially within women and youth
- Facilitate private sector engagement and investment among various levels of agriculture value chains including but not limited to producer, trader, processor, and wholesaler levels
- Promote strong relationships with MCC, the local government, multi-lateral and non-governmental organizations, and the private sector
Qualifications
- Advanced degree in horticulture and post-harvest handling required.
- Minimum 10 years of experience in commercial agricultural project management, in low or lower-middle income countries, with at least 5 years of experience in commercial irrigated horticulture. At least 2 years should be in sub-Saharan Africa.
- Minimum 5 years of experience in technology transfer in the horticulture field, including training and capacity building for emerging commercial farmers.
- Experience in at least one project involving nursery management and protected agriculture desirable.
- At least one year of experience conducting modern agricultural research in an agricultural development context.
- English required (written and spoken).
Basotho nationals are strongly encouraged to apply.
How to apply
Please apply online at www.acdivoca.org/international-jobs. The applications will be reviewed promptly upon receipt, only finalists will be contacted. ACDI/VOCA is an equal opportunity employer. Women, minorities and people from diverse groups are encouraged to apply. ACDI/VOCA will never request payment or charge a fee to apply for any position.