SENIOR ADVISOR FOR RURAL ECONOMY (M4P) in Bishkek / KYRGYZSTAN

HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation is one of the leading development organisations in Switzerland. Our mission is to empower people to improve their livelihoods and access to resources. We support, promote and strengthen social, economic, political and cultural rights and a sustainable use of natural resources.

Our department International Programmes is currently looking for a

SENIOR ADVISOR FOR RURAL ECONOMY (M4P) based in Bishkek / KYRGYZSTAN

The assignment composes of providing advisory services to two ongoing Private Sector Development Projects and activities related to the acquisition of new projects for the Helvetas Swiss Intercooperation Program in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.

MAIN TASKS

·         Overall strategic responsibility for the implementation of the Local Market Development and Organic Cotton Production & Trade Promotion projects of the Helvetas Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan Programme according to project documents and by applying M4P and private sector development principles

·         Provide advisory and backstopping assistance to the Project Managers in annual planning, monitoring, reporting and evaluation of projects with a specific focus on documentation for knowledge management, policy dialogue and donor relationship management

·         Develop and apply tools and instruments for capacity building and business development support of partner organizations and value chain actors on different levels (e.g. production, processing, sector policy)

·         Acquire new projects; prepare tender proposals including financial offers

·         Further develop the thematic competence of the Helvetas Kyrgyzstan Programme in the fields of rural economy and environment & climate change and promote project synergies in these fields

YOUR QUALIFICATION

·         Master Degree in business/international development or agro-economy

·         Minimum 10 years working experience in value chain and market development programs, preferably in CIS countries

·         Experience with main donor agency tender procedures, proven success in preparing tender bids, monitoring and budgeting

·         Specialization in Market for the Poor (M4P approach) and DCED standards

·         Experience in value chain development and marketing of agricultural products; both for domestic and international markets

·         Knowledge of ecological and social production systems, e.g. organic and fair-trade

·         Proven experience in promoting approaches favouring gender and social equity

·         Proven qualities in advising and coaching, strong communicator

·         Excellent spoken and written English. Spoken Russian is a distinct advantage for this position

WE OFFER YOU

An international contract of two years, with possibility of extension. Attractive working conditions and a satisfactory, challenging job in a multicultural team.

We look forward to receiving your application including motivation letter, CV, work certificates and diplomas by 2 April 2013. Please send your electronic application to applications@helvetas.org. Visit our website www.helvetas.org or Kyrgyz website www.helvetas.kg.