Market Systems Development (MSD) Capacity Strengthening Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded on the belief that a better world is possible. Established to respond to disasters and hardships, Mercy Corps operates in over 40 countries worldwide, partnering with communities to implement bold solutions that help people overcome adversity and build stronger communities from within. The organization has a long-standing commitment to improving the lives of individuals in vulnerable situations, particularly in regions affected by conflict and economic instability. With a diverse workforce and a mission-driven approach, Mercy Corps aims to create sustainable change through innovative programs and partnerships.

Job Overview:
The consultancy focuses on strengthening the technical capacity of the Regional Livestock Program (RLP) team in applying the Market Systems Development (MSD) approach. The consultant will provide targeted coaching and technical support to enhance the team's understanding of MSD principles, including market systems analysis, identification of systemic constraints, intervention design, and facilitation strategies. The goal is to improve the quality and sustainability of RLP interventions, ensuring that the team can independently design and manage MSD interventions that drive lasting systemic change in livestock market systems. The consultancy will involve a combination of remote support and travel to specific corridors in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia, with a total of up to 40 days of engagement over four months, starting from March 15, 2026.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake several key activities to achieve the objective of strengthening the RLP team's technical capacity in MSD. These activities include conducting a portfolio review and capacity needs assessment, developing a tailored MSD capacity building approach, selecting and analyzing targeted interventions, delivering targeted MSD training sessions, providing focused coaching support to program team members, and adapting program processes and tools. The consultant will also maintain a capacity scorecard to evaluate team members' skills and provide ongoing feedback to enhance their competencies. The consultant is expected to mentor at least eight selected program team members, focusing on practical application of MSD tools and approaches to real program activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate experience in remote support and coaching, particularly for early and mid-career team members from diverse backgrounds. They should have a proven track record of diagnosing capacity gaps within teams and prioritizing skills building. Experience in designing remote training and coaching programs that facilitate practical and adaptive use of skills is essential. Strong communication skills, particularly in conveying complex issues clearly, are required. Candidates should also have experience in maintaining engagement during remote training sessions and providing constructive feedback to improve analysis methods and decision-making. A minimum of 7-10 years of experience in MSD programming or private sector experience is required, with at least one job experience in a globally recognized MSD project.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for this consultancy role. Candidates should possess a degree in a field related to international development, economics, agriculture, or a similar discipline. Advanced degrees or specialized training in market systems development, private sector development, or related areas will be considered an asset. Continuous professional development and training in relevant methodologies and tools will also be beneficial.

Experience:
Candidates should have extensive experience in MSD programming, with a focus on technical leadership or support roles. Experience in negotiating partnership agreements, particularly in the context of public-private partnerships, is highly valued. Familiarity with methods and tools for sector analysis, investment decision-making, and understanding market systems is crucial. Experience working in fragile environments and across different agricultural sectors, particularly in East, Southern, and North Africa or the Middle East, is preferred. A proactive approach to work and self-driven leadership is essential for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with strong written and oral communication skills. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the regions of operation, such as Somali or Swahili, would be advantageous but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for up to 40 days over a four-month period, beginning on March 15, 202

• The consultant will report to the RLP director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Deputy Director - Technical Lead and will work closely with RLP leadership and field-level team members. The role involves remote work with some travel to project sites, including potentially insecure environments. Candidates are encouraged to apply through the Mercy Corps website, submitting a cover letter, CV, and professional references. The organization is committed to equal employment opportunities and safeguarding principles, ensuring a respectful and inclusive work environment.