Chemonics International Job for an Agricultural Value Chain Expert

Chemonics International seeks qualified candidates for an anticipated three month consultancy to assist with the development of a Staple Crop Processing Zone (SCPZ) - a delimited area of high agricultural production where the provision of dedicated infrastructure facilities, inducements and benefits will be given a high priority
to attract local and global investments into enhancing the production, storage, preservation, processing, distribution and marketing of local agricultural produce to boost Agro-industrialization in Nigeria.
All positions require a minimum of a Bachelors degree with a Masters degree preferred, 10 years of relevant experience with expertise in the technical area and' experience on USAID or other donor- funded projects. English fluency is required. Individuals who meet the minimum requirements and
have a passion for making a difference in the lives of people around the world and demonstrate leadership,

versatility, and integrity in their work are encouraged to apply for the following position:

Job Title: Agricultural Value Chain Expert
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
Provide a comprehensive. value chain analysis including structural analysis (governance
structures and linkages, partnerships and networks in the value chain), economic and market
analysis, (including costs, margins, and competitiveness, existing and alternative markets, marketing options, and standards), environmental analysis (including improved resource productivity and environmental performance) and development analysis (including potential income distribution, employment and livelihoods of the beneficiaries in the value chain).

Examine the existing marketing arrangements in the SCPZ with a view to determining constraints and offering solutions to marketing output and processing facilities. This shall include an assessment of the existing markets and transport system and road infrastructure, as well as their potential for development. In addition market prices, transport costs and farm prices shall be predicted, as related to the expected increased volume of production.

Identify, based on production figures of the primary crops, the size of processing and/or storage facilities that will be required in the processing zone as part of the marketing strategy.

Assess the possibilities of utilizing the value chain approach to ensure (incentives for) market development and propose operational modalities for processing/storage facilities in areas of ownership, utilization, maintenance.

Assess the possibilities of utilization of contractual arrangements with core investors and farmers within the value chain to ensure value addition and commercialization.

Determine credit requirements and methods of providing credit to the small farmers and study past experience with credit delivery and administration.

Assess potential for utilizing innovative approaches such as matching grants and concession loans to ensure financial availability and accessibility.

Review prices for both inputs and outputs and make recommendation on government pricing policies and measures that will be taken to improve returns to farmers and core investors in the
SCPZ.

Assess the governance structures, linkages and partnership networks based on commodity lines and potential for upgrading and innovation.

Analyze the 'overall value chain development in terms of potential income distribution, employment and livelihood advantages and incentives to drive the commodity value chain for
Each SCPZ.

Provide an assessment of agriculture and nutrition nexus within the concept of the SCPZ in
Nigeria.


Method of Application
Qualified applicants must include a cover letter highlighting relevant experience, a CV, and a list of 3 references with contact information. Applicants must be willing to work and travel throughout Nigeria. Applications should be submitted to [email protected]
 by January 22nd, 2013.
Please indicate the position you are applying for in the subject line. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. No telephone inquiries.