Lead the design and implementation of market-driven solutions that improve livelihoods in rural Uganda. This role focuses on creating lasting economic change by strengthening local financial systems, expanding market access, and supporting resilient agricultural practices.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct community-based assessments to identify economic challenges and opportunities.
- Analyze value chains to develop inclusive market strategies that connect farmers and producers to reliable buyers and suppliers.
- Establish and guide Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), ensuring strong governance and alignment with long-term sustainability goals.
- Enhance financial literacy and train local facilitators to support community-led financial initiatives.
- Integrate digital financial tools and remote monitoring systems to improve access and track performance.
- Build partnerships with SACCOs, microfinance institutions, and banks to expand financial services in underserved areas.
- Support vocational training programs tailored to the needs of women and youth.
- Promote climate-smart agriculture and agro-processing methods across all economic activities.
- Train and mentor field teams in financial inclusion, governance, and business development strategies.
- Develop structured implementation plans and monitor progress through data-driven evaluation.
- Facilitate community-led reviews to ensure programs adapt to local needs and realities.
- Engage local leaders and government stakeholders to ensure inclusive and conflict-sensitive programming.
- Ensure transparent procurement and distribution of tools that support financial and market development.
Qualifications
Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics, Development Studies, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field; or a Bachelor’s degree with at least eight years of relevant experience. Minimum five years of field experience in financial inclusion and market systems development in rural, agriculture-dependent communities is required.
- Proven track record in designing and managing VSLA programs and linking them to formal financial institutions.
- Strong skills in value-chain analysis and participatory assessment methods.
- Experience deploying digital tools for financial access and remote monitoring.
- Excellent communication, facilitation, and training abilities.
- Willingness to travel frequently within Uganda, including regular field visits to program sites.
Work Environment
This is an onsite position based in Mbarara, Uganda, with approximately 80% of time spent traveling across operational areas. The role operates within a culture of adaptive learning, equity, and community-led development. Technical approaches emphasize data-informed decisions, sustainable impact, and inclusive partnerships.
Organizational Values
- Data-driven decision making
- Community-centered design
- Partnership-based scaling
- Equity and inclusion
- Sustainable impact focus
- Adaptive learning
- Conflict-sensitive programming
