Market Systems Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization that operates in over 40 countries, driven by the belief that a better world is possible. The organization partners with communities to implement bold solutions that help people overcome adversity and build stronger communities from within. Mercy Corps is committed to addressing the challenges faced by vulnerable populations, particularly in disaster and hardship situations, by providing support and resources that empower individuals and communities to thrive.

Job Overview:
The Market Systems Specialist will play a crucial role in the PROPEL Africa Project, which aims to tackle the persistent issue of youth unemployment and underemployment in Liberia, Senegal, Tanzania, and Uganda. This position focuses on facilitating changes that strengthen the systems surrounding youth employment and entrepreneurship. The specialist will work on business development services, market linkages, digital services, and access to finance for self-employment. The role requires influencing both private and public sector actors to create more effective, inclusive, and youth-responsive employment markets. The specialist will also be responsible for leading strategic vision and technical leadership in market systems development, ensuring that interventions align with best practices and principles.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Market Systems Specialist will have a wide range of responsibilities, including:

• Providing leadership and strategic vision for the systems-change components of the PROPEL program, including workplan development and partnership management.
• Conducting labor market assessments to identify constraints and opportunities for improving youth employment outcomes.
• Designing interventions that enhance the capacity of key market system actors to function effectively and inclusively.
• Engaging with high-potential private and public-sector partners to co-create solutions that improve youth access to work and entrepreneurship pathways.
• Promoting the integration of digital tools and innovative service delivery models into program interventions.
• Leading the implementation of interventions and managing partnerships to ensure successful outcomes.
• Collaborating with MEAL teams to track changes and learning within the ecosystem.
• Building the skills of PROPEL team members in market systems development approaches and facilitating cross-country learning.
• Ensuring that all activities are designed with a clear understanding of security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and safeguarding principles.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess exceptional technical knowledge and practical implementation experience in the Market Systems Development approach. A Master's degree in international development, business, economics, or a related field is required, or extensive experience in market systems development program management. Additionally, candidates should have at least 7 years of experience in market systems development or private-sector development programs, with a strong understanding of youth employment ecosystems in Africa. Experience with market systems assessments, partnership brokering, and MSD intervention design is also essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in international development, business, economics, or a related field. Alternatively, extensive experience in market systems development program management may be considered in lieu of formal education. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of the principles and practices related to market systems development and youth employment.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of experience in market systems development or private-sector development programs. Candidates should have a proven track record of successfully implementing market systems development initiatives and a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities within youth employment ecosystems in Africa. Experience in conducting market systems assessments and designing effective interventions is crucial for this role.

Languages:
While the job posting does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the international nature of the organization and the countries involved. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Uganda, Liberia, Senegal, or Tanzania may be considered advantageous but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Kampala, Uganda, and may require up to 40% travel to support country programs, including travel to potentially insecure locations. The role emphasizes ongoing learning, with team members expected to dedicate 5% of their time to personal and professional development activities. Mercy Corps is committed to equal employment opportunities and maintaining a safe and inclusive work environment, adhering to safeguarding principles and ethical standards.