Market Linkage Project Specialist at American College of Technology (ACT) Ethiopia

Project: Sustainable Employment through Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Development (SEED)

Employment Type: Full-time, Contract (Initial 6-month contract with the possibility of extension)

About the Role

ACT is seeking a highly experienced Market Linkage Project Specialist, under the supervision of the Program Manager, is expected to lead and implement the B2B market linkage activities for enterprises under the SEED project. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in business development, market access, export facilitation, and networking, with a focus on both local and international business opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

• Enterprise Market Linkage: Develop and implement strategies to connect enterprises with local and international B2B markets.
• Market Research & Assessment: Identify potential buyers, suppliers, and investment partners for Ethiopian enterprises.
• Business Matchmaking: Organize B2B meetings, trade fairs, and networking events.
• Digital Market Access: Support enterprises in leveraging online B2B marketplaces and e-commerce platforms.
• Trade and Export Facilitation: Guide enterprises on compliance, logistics, and export procedures.
• Partnership Development: Collaborate with industry stakeholders, government agencies, trade associations, and the Ethiopian diaspora for market expansion.
• Monitoring & Evaluation: Track market linkage progress and ensure measurable impact on enterprises.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business Administration, Economics, Marketing, International Trade, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in market linkage, business development, or trade facilitation.
• Proven track record of successfully linking enterprises to local and international markets.
• Strong network and experience working with private sector partners, government agencies, and trade organizations.
• Familiarity with Ethiopian and international trade regulations, export requirements, and supply chain logistics.
• Experience with digital marketplaces, e-commerce platforms, and B2B networking tools.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Fluency in English and Amharic is required; additional languages are a plus.

Preferred Skills & Competencies

• Experience working with donor-funded projects or enterprise development initiatives.
• Understanding of sustainable business practices and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) compliance.
• Ability to design and implement training programs for enterprises on market readiness.
• Strong analytical and reporting skills.