SME Business Development Advisor

About the role

The SME Business Development Advisor will support SME business development initiatives in Eswatini through project coordination, capacity‑building and monitoring activities, contributing to the country’s agricultural value‑chain growth.

Key responsibilities

• Facilitate development, implementation and coordination of assigned programmes and projects, monitoring SME, BSO and financial institution capacity‑building.
• Conduct research, collect and analyse statistical data, and present findings.
• Provide substantive support for coordination and evaluation, including emerging issues and trend analysis.
• Assist consulting assignments, plan and facilitate workshops, and develop client action plans.
• Participate in surveys, design data‑collection tools, analyse responses and prepare conclusions.
• Prepare written outputs such as partnership agreements, background papers, analytical notes and report sections.
• Support consultative meetings and conferences, handling agendas, participants, background documents and logistics.
• Undertake outreach activities, develop training workshops and make presentations on assigned topics.
• Participate in field missions, providing substantive and administrative support and data collection.
• Coordinate capacity‑development activities delivered by external consultants on value addition, processing, market development, quality standards, business skills and finance access.

Required profile

• University degree in agribusiness, business administration, economics or related field (advanced degree acceptable).
• Minimum two years of experience in project/programme management, preferably with development projects in Eswatini or international organisations.
• Professional knowledge of sector‑specific theories, concepts and approaches, with strong analytical and research skills.
• Ability to manage conflicting priorities, plan work independently and meet deadlines.
• Commitment to gender equality and inclusive participation.
• Team‑oriented mindset and ability to collaborate with colleagues and stakeholders.