ToR- Business Development Manager for Shabelle Agro-inputs and Consulting services (SHACO).

Position: Agro-Business Development Manager
Organization: Shabelle Agro-inputs and Consulting Services (SHACO)
Location: Mogadishu, Somalia
Reports to: Agricultural Technical Advisor

Role Summary: The Agro-Business Development Manager will lead the growth and profitability of SHACO’s seed multiplication and Agro-inputs business. The role involves strategic planning, market analysis, overseeing seed production and marketing, and managing various business development activities.

Key Roles and responsibilities

·         Develop and execute comprehensive business strategies to expand SHACO’s market share and enhance profitability.

·         Implement strategic plans effectively to achieve the company’s short-term and long-term objectives.

·         Prepare detailed proposals/Concept notes and reports for internal stakeholders and external partners.

·         Document progress, achievements, and challenges, and provide actionable recommendations.

·         Conduct thorough market research to understand market trends, customer preferences, and competitive landscape.

·         Use insights to guide product development, marketing strategies, and business opportunities.

·         Oversee the company’s social media presence to build brand awareness and engage with the target audience.

·         Develop content strategies and manage social media campaigns.

·         Manage all aspects of seed production, from planting and cultivation to harvesting and processing.

·         Ensure production processes meet high-quality standards and comply with Market regulations.

·         Develop and implement marketing strategies for promoting high-quality certified seeds.

·         Collaborate with sales teams to drive product visibility and sales.

·         Support in Setting up experimental farms and demonstration plots to test various seed varieties (locally improved seeds).

·         Cultivate and manage relationships with small scale farmers, seeds companies/traders, NGOs, government agencies, and other key stakeholders.

·         Work closely with research and development teams to introduce new/improved seed varieties that meet market needs and address local agricultural challenges in Somalia.

·         Ensure all operations comply with national and international agricultural regulations and standards.

·         Maintain high standards of seed quality and adhere to environmental and safety protocols.

·         Provide training and support to sales and field teams on product knowledge, customer service, and sales techniques.

·         Develop training materials and conduct sessions to enhance team capabilities.

·         Represent SHACO at government led meetings ( MoA), events, conferences, and workshops.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture ( Agro-Business or crop production preferred), Project Management, or a related field. Master’s degree is added value.
• Minimum of 5 years in Agro-business management, Proposal and report writing, Extension services, with proven experience in seed production and marketing.

Preferred Skills

·         Strong strategic planning and business development skills.

·         Proficiency in market research and analysis.

·         Excellent communication and proposal/report writing abilities.

·         Experience in social media management and digital marketing.

·         Ability to oversee production processes and ensure quality control.

·         Strong interpersonal skills for relationship building and stakeholder management.

·         Knowledge of regulatory compliance and environmental standards.

·         Experience in training and team development.

Working Conditions

• Full-time position with potential travel to demonstration plots, and attend field days and events.
• Office-based work with occasional field work.

Encouragement for Female Candidates

·         SHACO strongly encourages female candidates to apply. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment and believe that women bring valuable perspectives and skills to our team.