Market System Development (MSD) Specialist

International Development Enterprises (iDE) is an international NGO working with the mission to create income and livelihood opportunities for poor rural households in Ethiopia through the various development projects implemented in six national regional states (Amhara, Oromia, South Ethiopia, South West Ethiopia, Somali and Tigray) of the country. iDE is currently seeking to recruit a qualified, dynamic and results-driven Market System
Development (MSD) Specialist for The Sustainable private sector engagement in developing inclusive forest products markets in Ethiopia program that is designed to strengthen Ethiopia’s forest product sector, with a focus on fostering inclusive growth, improving market access, and addressing key challenges. The programme aims to create a vibrant and inclusive forestry sector in Ethiopia.

The ideal candidate is therefore expected to have a solid experience in market systems analysis, private sector engagement, and capacity building. She/he will be directly engaged with a wide range of actors and stakeholders including government, private sector actors and program participants with a focus on the forestry sector market. He/she is also required to play a key role in driving market development initiatives that support entrepreneurship, business growth, and sustainable development.

Key Responsibilities:

• Market Analysis: Conduct thorough market analysis to identify trends, challenges, and opportunities within target markets. Use findings to inform the design and implementation of MSD strategies.
• Training and Capacity Building: Provide training to private sector partners, local entrepreneurs, and organizations to build their capacity in market development and business operations. Ensure knowledge transfer and skill-building to enhance long-term market sustainability.
• Private Sector Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders in the private sector. Facilitate collaboration between market players and ensure alignment with program goals.
• Entrepreneurship Training: Design and deliver targeted entrepreneurship training programs to equip entrepreneurs with the necessary skills for business growth, financial sustainability, and market expansion.
• Business Development Services (BDS): Provide ongoing Business Development Services (BDS) support to private sector actors, ensuring businesses have access to the resources and support they need to thrive
• Facilitate Market Linkages: Actively facilitate market linkages between local businesses, entrepreneurs, and potential partners, including suppliers, buyers, and investors, to enhance market access and expand business opportunities.
• Report Writing: Prepare comprehensive reports on market systems analysis, program progress, and stakeholder engagement. Ensure that reports are accurate, clear, and timely to inform decision-making.
• Monitoring and Evaluation: Oversee monitoring and evaluation of market system development activities. Track progress, measure impact, and adjust strategies as needed to ensure the success of market interventions.
• Relationship Management: Build and sustain effective working relationships with project partners, stakeholders, donors, and government agencies. Represent the organization in relevant industry platforms, meetings, and events.
• Representation in Platforms: Represent the organization in industry events, networks, and multi-stakeholder platforms. Act as the key point of contact for the program in all relevant external forums.

Salary and benefit package: As per the scale of the Organization.

Closing date: 10 (ten) calendar days from the first date of announcement

Reports To: Program Manager/MSD Advisor

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Economics, International Development, or related fields from a recognized college/university (minimum)
• Master’s Degree in Business, Economics, International Development or related fields from recognized college/university (desirable)
• For BA, at least 5 years of experience in Market System Development (MSD), business development, private sector engagement, or related fields.
• For MA, at least 3 years of experience in Market System Development (MSD), business development, private sector engagement, or related fields.
• Proven experience in conducting market analysis and providing capacity-building and training programs.
• Strong understanding of business development services (BDS) and entrepreneurship support.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong report writing and documentation skills.
• Experience working with diverse stakeholders, including government, private sector, and donors.
• Ability to think strategically and work with cross-functional teams.
• Experience with monitoring and evaluation of market systems projects is a plus.

Desired Skills:

• Excellent spoken and written communication
• Knowledge of the local market landscape and key forest industry players.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt in dynamic environments.
• Willingness to frequently travel to project areas
• Identify, build and manage collaborative partnerships with consortium partners, donors, local governments and other stakeholders
• Communicate effectively to ensure overall project targets and donor obligations are met.