Enterprise Development Coordinator at Centre for Community Development and Research Network (CCDRN)

Job Summary

• The Centre for Community Development and Research Network (CCDRN) seeks a proactive and skilled Enterprise Development Coordinator to join our Livelihood Development team in Katsina. The successful candidate will play a key role in implementing strategies to support the development, growth, and sustainability of micro and small enterprises (MSEs) within our target communities.
• This position involves delivering business development advisory services and capacity-building initiatives and supporting innovations for business growth and market access.

Key Responsibilities
Business Development Advisory Services:

• Provide one-on-one business advisory services to MSEs alongside CCDRN field team members to enhance business growth and sustainability.
• Assist in the development and execution of training materials and capacity-building programs focused on business planning, financial literacy, marketing, and business growth.
• Conduct assessments of business needs and develop tailored support plans to promote business growth and sustainability among CCDRN beneficiaries.

Resource Mobilization and Networking:

• Support MSEs in identifying and securing funding opportunities including grants, loans, and investment options, and aid in application processes.
• Build and maintain a network of industry contacts, mentors, and service providers to facilitate enterprise growth within and outside the beneficiaries' communities.
• Organize and coordinate networking events, meetup forums, and exhibitions to foster business collaboration, market linkages, and knowledge sharing.

Program Development and Management:

• Assist in developing strategies for delivering Business Development Advisory Services across CCDRN's livelihood projects and locations.
• Contribute to the design and implementation of capacity-building initiatives aimed at enabling CCDRN’s livelihood staff to provide continuous business development support.
• Support the development of tools and templates for enterprise development support to livelihood beneficiaries.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of enterprise development initiatives and suggest necessary adjustments to achieve desired outcomes.
• Collaborate with CCDRN departments and external partners to incorporate enterprise development into broader community development strategies.

Access to Market:

• Assist MSEs in identifying and accessing markets for their products and services both locally and externally.
• Guide MSEs on product development, branding, and marketing strategies to enhance competitiveness.
• Facilitate MSEs in leveraging digital technologies and e-commerce platforms to extend their reach.

Reporting and Documentation:

• Maintain accurate records of all interactions, interventions, and outcomes related to enterprise development activities.
• Prepare and submit regular reports on the progress and impact of enterprise development programs to the Enterprise Development Manager.
• Document success stories and case studies to highlight the achievements of the enterprise development initiatives.

Qualifications and Competencies

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Economics, Entrepreneurship, or a related field. A master’s degree is an advantage.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in enterprise development or business development service provision, preferably in a community development context.
• Strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing MSEs in developing economies.
• Demonstrated ability to implement effective business development programs and initiatives.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and interpersonal skills to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Highly organized with strong project management skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with business development software and tools.
• Willingness to travel within Katsina and to other northern Nigerian states.

Working Conditions

• This position is based in Katsina and involves frequent field visits to engage with entrepreneurs and business owners.
• Standard office hours apply, but flexibility is required for meetings, events, and workshops outside of regular hours.