Since 1963 and in 148 countries, ACDI/VOCA has empowered people in developing and transitional nations to succeed in the global economy. Based in Washington, D.C., ACDI/VOCA is a nonprofit international development organization that designs and delivers technical and management solutions in agriculture, economic growth, and resilience to promote economic prosperity and social inclusion.

Food Production Team Lead, Zambia

ACDI/VOCA is seeking a Food Production Team Lead for an upcoming Agricultural Diversification Activity in Zambia funded by USAID. The anticipated program will support the growth of Zambia’s agricultural sector and enhance resilience to climate shocks while improving the market competitiveness of targeted commodities. Additionally, the activity will increase the diversity of nutritious commodities that hold the potential to improve dietary consumption at the rural household level.

The Food Production Team Lead will engage with the private sector and local government to strengthen the capacity of small agribusinesses to produce a wider variety of nutritious foods. The program is anticipated to start in 2024 and this position will be based in Zambia.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with US-based research institutions to facilitate the transfer of cutting-edge food production technologies and innovative practices to Zambian small agribusinesses
• Partner with private sector service providers to scale up commercial climate-smart agriculture solutions
• Partner with private sector actors and government extension agencies to strengthen agricultural and livestock extension systems and access to appropriate agricultural inputs.
• Support locally led partnerships that expand food processing into new and diversified market channels.
• Support solutions for the safe post-harvest handling, transport and storage of food value chain commodities.
• Identify issues and risks related to program implementation in a timely manner and suggest appropriate program adjustments.
• Liaise with donor and beneficiary representatives to ensure an effective and responsive approach to project implementation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in agricultural sciences, economics, agribusiness, and/or business administration required; Master’s degree preferred
• Minimum 7 years of relevant development experience in areas of food crops production, value chain development, agricultural extension and input systems strengthening experience.
• Demonstrated experience implementing activities that resulted in use of new technologies to increase productivity and profitability of small holder farmers.
• Demonstrated experience facilitating work with private sector partners.
• Commitment to continuous collaboration, learning and adaptation to improve project effectiveness.
• Minimum 5 years work of relevant experience in international development program of equivalent size and scope is preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with institutional and private sector partners, stakeholders and donors.
• Excellent writing and presentation skills.
• Fluency in English is required.

Zambian nationals are strongly encouraged to apply.