• We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Program Manager to manage  the “Strengthening Food Systems to Promote Increased Value Chain Employment Opportunities for the Youth in Nigeria” project.
• The project aims to create sustainable job opportunities and income generation for young women and men in the agribusiness sector, focusing on sorghum, millet, groundnut, soybean, and horticulture value chains.
• It is providing capacity building and training in business development, financial literacy, and technical skills, empowering participants to become successful entrepreneurs and leaders in their communities.

 Key Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day management of the project, ensuring timely and effective implementation of all activities.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, including government agencies and partners.
• Coordinate project planning, monitoring, and evaluation processes.
• Supervise and support project staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
• Provide technical guidance in agribusiness development, value chain enhancement, and post-harvest management.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations, highlighting project achievements, challenges, and lessons learned.
• Document and share best practices, success stories, and innovative approaches to enhance project visibility.
• Offer technical solutions to emerging issues, ensuring timely resolution and minimal disruption.
• Facilitate market linkages between project participants and buyers, off-takers, and financial service providers.
• Deliver business development services to support the growth of youth-led enterprises and SHF cooperatives.
• Develop and implement strategies to ensure the inclusion and active participation of youth and women in all project activities.
• Collaborate with project teams to integrate gender-sensitive approaches and youth-focused initiatives across all project components.
• Identify and mitigate risks associated with project implementation.
• Present regular progress reports to the Project Management Unit (PMU) and other stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Advance degree in Agribusiness, Development Studies or related field.
• At least 7 years of experience in managing large-scale development projects, particularly in the agriculture and agribusiness sector.
• Proven experience in managing multi-stakeholder projects, including experience with donor-funded projects.
• Proven track record working small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
• Strong understanding of agricultural value chains, particularly in Nothern Nigeria.
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a multicultural and diverse environment.
• Fluency in English; knowledge of local languages is an advantage.