Uganda: Program Officer- 1 Vacancy based in Kitgum (Ugandan Nationals Only)

GENERAL POSITION SUMMARY:

Reporting to the Program Manager, the Program Officer will work closely with the TRAIL private sector partner to understand the business case for various interventions: trainings in agronomy/post-harvest handling; access to quality inputs; increasing the number of female buying agents; and access to financial services which increases access to loans for agricultural inputs, among others. The ability to course correct based on real-time evidence is a key part of this position. The ability to work well with the private sector and understand how the needs and incentives of the private sector align with Mercy Corps is essential.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

· Work closely with the Program Manager and technical teams in active monitoring, rapid assessment and improvement of current private sector engagement model, according to the approved work plan and budgets, project document and implementation strategies.

· Ensure project deadlines, quality standards and targets are met, redesigning deadlines, work plans, quality standards and targets as needed.

· Influence private sector partner to understand the social and business incentives behind program interventions, providing support and guidance as needed to incorporate such interventions in the private sector partner’s core business model.

· Make on-site field visits regularly to provide technical back stopping and/or design recommendations.

· Support new business development, identifying new potential partners, leading negotiations of partnerships and leading implementation of any work plans related to such partnerships.

· Conduct light due-diligence on potential partners and support the negotiation process, as requested, in finalizing teaming and partnership agreements;

· Prepare accurate and timely reports and other project documentation and communication that contribute to a learning organization;

· Actively participate in the periodic program planning, review and reflection meetings and sessions.

· Assists in all other tasks and duties as assigned by supervisor and program managers. Conduct himself/herself both professionally and personally in such a manner as to bring credit to Mercy Corps and to not jeopardize its mission.

· Organizational Learning: As part of Mercy Corps Uganda’s commitment to organizational learning and in support of our understanding that learning organizations are more effective, efficient and relevant to the communities they serve - we expect all team members to commit 5% of their time to learning activities that benefit the DYNAMIC program as well as themselves.

· Accountability to Beneficiaries: TRAIL team members are expected to support all efforts towards accountability, specifically to direct program participants, engaging them as equal partners in the design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of our field activities.

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE:

· Bachelor’s Degree in business, agribusiness, economic development or other relevant field is preferred.

· Background in business or market/economic development, with a minimum of 3 years practical experience in the private sector, private sector engagement or related industry.

· Experience with market facilitation, supporting systemic change and promoting supporting services indirectly, is preferred.

· Knowledge of the agricultural sectors highly desirable.

· Some practical experience in working with micro, small and medium sized companies in a development setting.

· Strong writing, communication, organization, prioritization and negotiating skills.

· Excellent (English) verbal and written communication skills. Language skills in Luo highly valued.

· Strong computer literacy with a full knowledge of office applications.

· Excellent attention to detail and ability to complete tasks in a timely manner.

· Excellent teamwork abilities and interpersonal skills.

· Demonstrated flexibility, creativity and enthusiasm as well as a willingness to learn and to be continually adaptive within a dynamic and often self-directed working environment mandatory.

· Willingness to spend much time in the field and work closely with program target groups.

Applications: Submit your application through email to mcjobs@ug.mercycorps.org addressed to the HR Manager, Kampala Head Office on 4^th Floor Embassy Plaza, Plot 1188-1190 Ggaba Road. Include a cover letter clearly stating your salary requirements, CV (with 3 referees), and copies of academic qualifications/certificates. Deadline for Submission: Close of business on Thursday, March 24, 2016. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted by Mercy Corps. MercyCorps is an equal opportunity employer; qualified female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.