DEC Adequate Trading Manager – Multi-Sector Operations

Job Title: DEC Adequate Trading Manager – Multi-Sector Operations

Reports to: Executive Director
Location: Addis Ababa,
Type: outcome-based contract
Salary and benefits: negotiable

DEC Adequate Trading

Development Expertise Center is a national CSO that aspires to see all children and youth wellbeing fostered. DEC established DEC Adequate Trading as part of its sustainability strategy and community development mandate, where DEC Adequate Trading (with Registered Trade Business License No. MT/AA/9/0034286/2008EC from the Ministry of Trade of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia (FDRE) currently runs income-generating activities that integrate garment and weaving production, printing services, livestock fattening, poultry farming, and consultancy services. These ventures serve dual purposes: generating income to support the organization’s programs and creating employment and skills development opportunities for the targeted populations.

Position Summary

The DEC Adequate Trading Manager will provide strategic leadership and oversee the integrated management of the organization’s income-generating activities across the below sectors: garment production, play material production, printing, livestock fattening, poultry farming, and consultancy services. The manager will ensure efficient operations, financial viability, social impact, and alignment with DEC’s values and community development goals.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Planning & Development

• Lead the development of and implement Trade Business plans for each business unit component and the DEC Adequate Trading.
• Align DEC Adequate Trading’s goals with the broader mission of DEC.
• Identify opportunities for growth, innovation, and increased impact.

2. Operational Oversight

• Coordinate and supervise day-to-day business operations across all business unit in all DEC Adequate Trading’s locations.
• Ensure quality control, timely production, and service delivery.
• Integrate operational systems for procurement, inventory, staffing, and logistics across business units.
• Identify marketing needs and fits the income generating activities into it.

3. Financial Management

• Develop and manage budgets for each trade business unit and DEC Adequate Trading overall.
• Monitor revenues, costs, and profitability, and implement cost-control measures.
• Explore investment opportunities for scaling.

4. Marketing & Sales

• Lead the development of marketing strategies for ongoing business unit activities and explore new opportunities.
• Oversee stakeholder relations, pricing, contract management, and customer satisfaction.
• Build brand recognition and market presence for DEC Adequate Trading.

5. Team Leadership

• Recruit, supervise, and support Business unit coordinators and staff across all units.
• Conduct regular training, performance evaluations, and team-building activities.
• Promote a collaborative and mission-driven culture.

6. Social Impact & Community Engagement

• Monitor and report on social impact indicators alongside financial performance.
• Maintain strong relationships with community stakeholders, clients, and government partners.

7. Compliance & Reporting

• Ensure compliance with local regulations related to labor, safety and DEC Adequate Trading operations.
• Prepare and present regular progress and financial reports to the DEC’s leadership including the Board of Directors.
• Maintain documentation and data for audits, evaluations, and reports to regulatory body.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in business administration, Economics, Agriculture, Social Enterprise, Industrial Management, or related field.
• At least 3–5 years of progressive experience managing trade business or income-generating enterprises, preferably across diverse sectors.
• Experience in at least two of the following is essential: garment manufacturing, printing services, livestock/poultry farming, or consultancy services.
• Proven skills in business planning, financial management, and team leadership.

Desired Competencies

• Excellent understanding of social enterprise and trade business environment
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a strong sense of mission.
• Excellent organizational, multitasking, and decision-making skills.
• Strong leadership and staff development capabilities.
• Knowledge of inclusive business models
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.