Trade & Market Systems Manager at TechnoServe

Job Summary:

 We are seeking a highly experienced and strategic Trade & Market System Manager to direct the project's efforts in optimizing fisheries trade in Nigeria. This role requires a team lead with a very good understanding of international and regional trade dynamics, market systems analysis, and the ability to translate complex data into actionable policy and business recommendations.

Program/Practice/Department Overview:

The AquaTrade project is designed to create jobs within Nigeria's fisheries value chain for women and youths by providing capacity building training and facilitating access to market and finance with the aim of boosting trade in fish and value-added fish products.

Primary Functions & Responsibilities:

• Conduct in-depth analyses of national and regional trade policies, market access barriers, and value chain inefficiencies, focusing on ECOWAS, AfCFTA, and WTO frameworks.
• Develop trade strategies to enhance the competitiveness of Nigerian fisheries products in regional and international markets.
• Monitor and analyze global fisheries market trends and their potential impact on Nigeria.
• Identify and address barriers to cross-border trade, including customs procedures, sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures, and logistical constraints.
• Work with stakeholders to streamline trade processes and enhance regional integration.
• Assess market structures, value chains, and trade flows to identify bottlenecks and opportunities for improvement.
• Develop market information systems to support informed decision-making by fishers, traders, and processors.
• Design and implement interventions to improve market linkages and reduce transaction costs.
• Utilize statistical software and economic modeling techniques to analyze trade data and generate actionable insights.
• Work closely with government agencies, private sector associations, regional economic communities and prepare high-quality reports, policy briefs, and presentations for stakeholders.
• Lead and mentor junior analysts and provide training and technical assistance to stakeholders on trade-related issues.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Agricultural Economics, International Trade, or a related field and 7 years of experience in trade and market analysis, preferably in the fisheries or agricultural sector. Alternatively a Master’s degree and 5 years of experience
• Proven expertise in analyzing regional trade agreements (ECOWAS, AfCFTA, WTO) and cross-border trade facilitation.
• Strong quantitative skills and proficiency in statistical software.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated experience with at least two previous assignments related to trade and market analysis.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in West Africa, including Nigeria.
• Knowledge of fisheries management and value chains.
• Publications in peer-reviewed journals or policy briefs.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong understanding of international trade theory and practice.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong project management skills.

Supervisory Responsibilities – 1 -3 Market Analysts