About the Role
TechnoServe is a leading global nonprofit organization that develops business solutions to poverty by linking people to information, capital, and markets. We are currently seeking a dynamic and results-driven Core Crops Technical Manager to spearhead our agricultural processing initiatives in Nigeria. In this pivotal role, you will provide technical leadership to improve processing efficiency, quality assurance, and market competitiveness specifically for soybean and sesame value chains, empowering local enterprises and fostering sustainable economic growth.
Key Responsibilities- Lead the design and implementation of technical interventions for soybean and sesame value chains to achieve project goals.
- Provide expert guidance on agri-food processing equipment selection, plant layout, post-harvest handling, and food safety standards.
- Develop targeted upgrading strategies for women-led micro and small enterprises, youth, and agribusinesses in the agricultural sector.
- Build and maintain strategic partnerships with private sector processors, aggregators, equipment vendors, and government bodies like NAFDAC and SON.
- Design and deliver comprehensive training programs on good manufacturing practices, business operations, and quality management.
- Collaborate closely with the Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) team to track performance indicators and adapt project strategies.
- Advanced degree in Agricultural Science, Food Science, Agricultural Engineering, Agribusiness, or a related field with at least 5 years of relevant experience (7 years with a Bachelor's degree).
- Proven expertise in the Nigerian agri-food processing sector, particularly with private sector food processing companies and SMEs.
- Strong understanding of value addition, post-harvest systems, and national food safety regulatory frameworks.
- Demonstrated ability to manage high-performing teams, coordinate technical consultants, and implement gender-integrated programs.
- Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and problem-solving skills with a willingness to travel to field locations.
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
- Opportunity to create lasting, systemic impact on agricultural livelihoods and poverty reduction in Nigeria.
- Dynamic, collaborative multicultural work environment with professional growth opportunities.