Program /State Coordinator at Food Health Systems Advisory (FHSA)

• In this role, you will provide technical support in food safety, product development, shelf-life studies, equipment sourcing and process optimization. The position is primarily remote but involves regular on-site visits for hands-on support. Preference will be given to candidates familiar with the local context and adept at navigating both formal and informal processing environments. As the State Coordinator, you will be responsible for onboarding and managing SMEs and micro-processing centres, ensuring their active participation in the program. You will also cultivate and maintain relationships with stakeholders in your state.

Responsibilities:

Program Management & Technical Support:

• Coordinate program activities within the state, ensuring alignment with objectives and program goals.
• Onboard and manage nano, small, and medium-sized female-led food processors, SMEs, and micro-processing centres.
• Provide technical assistance for business growth, food safety, product development, access to finance, equipment sourcing and process optimization.
• Promote food safety and appropriate processing technologies, offering guidance and training on their adoption.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations through inspections, and hands-on support.

Stakeholder Engagement & Capacity Building:

• Build and maintain relationships with government agencies, industry partners, and other stakeholders.
• Represent FHSA at state-level meetings, conferences, and events to advocate for program objectives.

Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, & Data Reporting:

• Collaborate with the M&E national team to collect state-level data and business metrics through regular field visits.
• Prepare and submit regular reports on program activities, outcomes, and impact.
• Use data insights to inform program improvements and strategic decisions.

Financial Management & Compliance:

• Support budgeting and financial planning for state-level program activities.
• Track expenditures to ensure alignment with approved budgets and donor/organizational requirements.
• Review and verify financial documentation from partners, vendors, and beneficiaries before submission.
• Ensure timely processing of payments and accurate record-keeping in line with financial policies.
• Assist MSMEs and processors in understanding financial requirements, cost-management practices, and eligibility for funding opportunities.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Nutrition, or a related field, with strong foundational knowledge of food processing and food systems
• Working knowledge of food safety, quality management systems, and regulatory requirements (e.g., HACCP, GMP, ISO/FSSC standards)
• Proven ability to plan, organize, and coordinate programs or projects, including tracking timelines and deliverables
• Experience in data collection, analysis, documentation, and reporting using standard office or digital tools
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including proficiency in local language(s), to communicate effectively with teams, community members, and stakeholders
• Demonstrated problem-solving ability, attention to detail, effective time management, and strong relationship management skills
• High level of professionalism, integrity, adaptability, and commitment to continuous learning and improvement

Potential Qualities & Attributes

• Mission-Driven and Impact-Focused: Demonstrates a strong commitment to advancing program objectives and improving outcomes for communities and businesses within the state.
• Accountable and Results-Oriented: Takes ownership of responsibilities, sets clear goals, and consistently follows through to deliver high-quality results.
• Independent Yet Collaborative Thinker: Uses sound judgment to make informed decisions while working effectively with teams, stakeholders, and partners.
• Innovative and Solutions-Focused: Approaches challenges with creativity, adaptability, and a continuous-improvement mindset to strengthen program delivery.
• Ethical and Transparent: Upholds integrity in all interactions, ensuring compliance with organizational standards, regulatory requirements, and financial guidelines.
• Resilient and Resourceful: Maintains focus and composure in complex or dynamic environments, proactively identifying opportunities and addressing obstacles.