Nigerian Agriculture Competitiveness Specialist at Connexus Corporation

About the Job:
Connexus is seeking an Agricultural Competitiveness Specialist for the anticipated five year USAID/Nigeria Agricultural Competitiveness project. The project will focus on identifying agribusinesses and agricultural value chain actors with growth potential, and will assist with investment and technical assistance to seed growth at scale. It is anticipated that the project will focus on a number of sectors, including but not limited to: agriculture, clean energy, nutrition, water and sanitation hygiene (WASH), gender and youth-oriented activities.

Location:
The position will be located in Nigeria.

Tasks and Responsibilities:
Identify and make contact with key informants and key stakeholders in competitive agricultural sectors
Identify opportunities for finance in identified sectors, package them to be attractive for investment
Work to develop, package and market a pipeline of project related investment opportunities in coordination with project partners
Assist in mentoring entrepreneurs and/or build their capacity to develop business plans and strengthen their management and operations

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree and at least 5 years of experience in economic growth/trade, business development services or investment analysis, promotion and packaging
• Experience in evaluating agricultural sectors for their local and international market competitiveness
• Experience in conducting due diligence and evaluating small and medium enterprise (SME) and agribusiness opportunities for potential investment
• Experience in strengthening SME management and operations and preparing them for investment
• Demonstrated creativity, willingness to innovate, think systemically and work in a team environment
• Experience working on USAID-funded programs in Nigeria or West Africa a plus
• This position requires spoken and written fluency in English.