Job Title: Agricultural Specialist
AGARU SACCO, a Savings and Credit Cooperative Society (the Society) is looking for a Agricultural Specialist
JOB DESCRIPTION
The specialist will report to the Chief Executive Officer to specifically facilitate the development, implementation and monitoring of Agribusiness Products and agricultural programmes/projects.
The products will be for the growth of the agricultural portfolio of the Society and to directly or indirectly support the development of the members of the Society. Subject to the operational and financial viability of the projects, the developed product.
The Specialist will also have the following responsibilities;
Develop an Agricultural product that will focus on the needs of the targeted clients.
Develop a work plan for activities related to all field work and deliverables
Undertake critical assessment of selected enterprises in conjunction with establishment of client selection criteria,
Develop a critical appraisal format and selection criteria for producers/producer groups and businesses who need financial services including loans and deposits through,
Develop an Agricultural lending product that is profitable and can be practically offered within the business model framework that AGARU uses,
Develop training modules for staff tailored to agricultural production and agribusiness.
Interview, select and train AGARU staff in value chain analysis and intervention, customized to small holder production and small-scale agricultural business.
In conjunction with AGARU credit staff, complete loan documentation and procedures suitable for lending to agribusinesses,
Create strong working relationships between AGARU and large agricultural processors and small scale producers in selected countries in Africa,
Create a mechanism where awareness of AGARU products and services is enhanced.
Provide overall supervision and administration for the project
Provide periodic reports on the progress of the pilot complete with recommendations and action plans
Requirement:
Ideal profile:
Bachelor's degree in agronomy, animal science or agricultural economics studies or equivalent. MS/MBA is an added advantage.
3 years minimum of experience in agricultural/farming environment with diversified animals and crops, direct large size farm experience. Preferred person from a large scale farming operation who knows the science and business end of fanning.
Former agricultural extension agent experience, an added advantage,
Proven track record of successfully identifying, developing and implementing agricultural businesses.
Knowledge or previous experience in a lending institution preferred, but not mandatory
Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate with senior level executives.
Self-starter with high energy to learn quickly and meet the needs of the assignment,
Ability to hit the ground running. Collaborative and flexible style,
Mature management and presentation skills, demonstrated effective verbal and written communication skills and strong interpersonal skills,
Strong technical and business acumen,
Fluency in English,
Ability and willingness to travel as and when required
How to apply:
If you believe you have the experience and qualifications for this job, please send your application (including the application letter, CV not exceeding 3 pages, certified copies of academic transcripts, academic/professional certificates and testimonials stating your name, current position, telephone contact and the position applied for as the email subject or letter reference to:
Email: (nfb@agarusacco.com (Attached files should not be in excess of 1MB) OR Agaru Cooperative Savings and Credit Society Limited P.O. Box 58 Pader, Pader-Agago District
Phase note: Closing dale for submission is 7th July 2012 and only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
