Technical Advisor I - Seed System Development Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established to assist the poor and vulnerable overseas, CRS operates in more than 100 countries, providing relief and development programs that encompass emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. The organization is committed to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all individuals, particularly children and vulnerable adults, ensuring they live free from abuse and harm. CRS welcomes individuals from diverse faiths and secular traditions who share its values and commitment to service. The agency's work culture is collaborative and mission-driven, focused on improving the lives of the poor globally. CRS is an Equal Opportunity Employer, encouraging qualified female candidates and persons with disabilities to apply.

Job Overview:
The Technical Advisor I - Seed System Development Specialist will play a crucial role in providing technical advice, guidance, and support in the area of Seed Systems development as part of the Privately Funded Ethiopia Seed Activity (ESA) project. This position requires applying Catholic Relief Services (CRS) program quality principles and standards, donor guidelines, and industry best practices to enhance the delivery of high-quality programming aimed at supporting the poor and vulnerable populations in Ethiopia. The specialist will focus on climate-smart crop and forage seed systems, promoting inclusive and sustainable agriculture-led economic growth while strengthening resilience among communities. The role involves leading seed system development, market development, and private sector engagement activities, ensuring effective data collection and reporting to improve project outcomes. The specialist will also be responsible for coordinating relationships with various stakeholders to implement best practices in seed market systems development, ultimately enhancing the impact of the project on beneficiaries.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Technical Advisor will manage the innovation and business acceleration fund (IBAF), reviewing proposals and developing market-based approaches that engage private sector development. Responsibilities include providing training on the seed market system approach to IBAF grantees, leading market systems development approaches, and facilitating partnerships that strengthen linkages between crop and forage seed market actors. The advisor will regularly monitor and facilitate dialogues along the marketing value chain of targeted crop and forage seeds, identify new opportunities to strengthen market linkages, and support the development and monitoring of IBAF agreements. Conducting periodic field monitoring visits to IBAF grantees, working closely with private sector actors to identify new business models for forage processing, and developing market analyses to facilitate private sector engagement are also key responsibilities. The advisor will ensure the project captures up-to-date information about market system developments and private sector engagement, build collaborative partnerships with stakeholders, and engage in future business development opportunities related to the project.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong business acumen, entrepreneurial spirit, and adaptability, with a results-oriented mindset. They should have experience engaging with research institutions and national seed system actors, along with excellent networking and engagement skills. Demonstrated skills in facilitating public-private partnerships and the ability to coordinate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including government entities, donors, and community organizations, are essential. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, along with the ability to make sound judgments and offer innovative solutions, are required. Excellent relationship management skills, strong written and oral communication abilities, and proficiency in Microsoft Office and web conferencing applications are also necessary for this role.

Educational Background:
A minimum educational requirement for this position is an MSc/MA or BA/BSc degree in Business Administration, Economics, Agricultural Economics, Rural Development, or other relevant fields. Candidates with an MSc/MA should have at least 5 years of work experience in the seed sector, while those with a BA/BSc should have a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience. Experience in the NGO sector is preferred, particularly in leading agricultural market systems development programs and engaging effectively with the private sector.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a comprehensive understanding of the current CRS IBAF implementation model, with at least two years of direct engagement with Private Seed Producers using the IBAF framework. They should have a deep understanding of market system development approaches and experience in facilitating economic and market development, including coaching and relationship building. Experience working with livestock, crop production, and financial market actors, as well as knowledge of participatory analyses and action processes, is also important. Candidates should have a proven track record of engaging with partner organizations and stakeholders in the industry.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the international nature of the organization. Additional language skills relevant to the local context may be advantageous but are not explicitly stated as requirements.

Additional Notes:
This position is a definite term employment for one year, classified at Job Grade

• It does not involve supervisory responsibilities. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package for U.S.-based staff, including medical, dental, life insurance, vision, and a generous retirement savings plan. For candidates employed outside the U.S., benefits packages are based on the country of employment. The organization prioritizes candidates who are citizens or permanent residents of the countries where CRS operates. The successful candidate will be expected to adhere to CRS's Code of Conduct and safeguarding policies.