Cluster Development Officer at Ethnocentrique Limited

Project Summary

The Fashion Future Program (FFP), implemented by Ethnocentrique, is a skills and local economic development initiative aimed at equipping young fashion enthusiasts and entrepreneurs, particularly women, with the resources and opportunities needed to excel in the competitive garment, footwear, and leatherwork segments of the Nigerian fashion industry. Through apprenticeship training, mentorship, cluster development, and advocacy, FFP aims to enhance local production and drive sustainable development within local communities.

Position Overview

The Cluster Development Officer will support the Cluster Development Lead to advance Ethnocentrique’s mission to enhance economic growth through the development of MSME clusters in the fashion industry. This role will focus on working with fashion entrepreneurs, local clusters, communities, and key stakeholders to design and implement initiatives that drive economic empowerment and community development.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement tailored business development strategies to support MSMEs within the fashion cluster, focusing on growth and sustainability.
• Identify key growth areas, expansion opportunities, and market access initiatives for MSMEs.
• Analyse market trends, competitor activities, and the unique needs of MSMEs to inform cluster-specific business development strategies.
• Conduct thorough research to identify potential fashion clusters in Aba and surrounding areas.
• Analyse the economic potential, competitiveness, and long-term viability of these clusters through data analysis and field assessments.
• Build and foster strong relationships with key stakeholders, including local government bodies, industry associations, fashion businesses, academic institutions, and community leaders.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to develop cluster-specific strategies aimed at improving competitiveness, innovation, and sustainable growth.
• Lead the creation of cluster development strategies in consultation with stakeholders, focusing on key areas such as infrastructure, skills development, financing, market access, and innovation.
• Ensure the alignment of these development strategies with Ethnocentrique broader goals for economic empowerment and sustainable development.
• Oversee the implementation of cluster development projects, managing activities, timelines, and budgets effectively.
• Provide guidance and support to project teams and partners to ensure seamless execution and the achievement of set targets.
• Develop monitoring and evaluation frameworks to track project progress, assess impact, and identify areas for continuous improvement.
• Collect and analyse performance data to evaluate the sustainability and success of cluster interventions.
• Organize training sessions, workshops, and seminars to strengthen the capacities of stakeholders involved in cluster development.
• Share best practices, lessons learned, and success stories to facilitate knowledge exchange and encourage replication of successful strategies.
• Prepare detailed progress reports, impact assessments, and case studies for internal and external stakeholders.
• Maintain accurate records of project activities, achievements, challenges, and insights gained throughout the project’s lifecycle.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with MSMEs, cluster participants, and external stakeholders.
• Understand the needs of MSMEs and provide tailored business development solutions to help them achieve their growth objectives.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to ensure MSME satisfaction and long-term retention.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Economics, Business Administration, International Development, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in cluster development, economic development, or related areas.
• Proven experience in project management, stakeholder engagement, and driving tangible results.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities, with the capacity to work in diverse and multicultural environments.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and data analysis tools.