Agri- Bussiness Development Officer

With 75 years of experience, our focus is on helping the most vulnerable children overcome poverty and experience fullness of life. We help children of all backgrounds, even in the most dangerous places, inspired by our Christian faith.

Come join our 31,000+ staff working in nearly 100 countries and share the joy of transforming vulnerable children’s life stories!

Key Responsibilities:

Job Purpose: 
The Agri-Climate Business Development Officer is integral to driving the successful implementation of innovative agricultural loan products. This role involves refining and overseeing tailored financial products while understanding the unique needs of smallholder farmers. As a subject matter expert and leader, the Officer will convene VFT teams, consultants, and stakeholders, ensuring sustained growth and resilience in VisionFund Tanzania's agricultural lending initiatives. In this role, the Agri-Climate Business Development Officer will influence knowledge leadership within the agricultural landscape. The Officer will be committed to staying informed on industry trends, technological advancements, and best practices to position VisionFund effectively in agricultural finance. The Officer will be the focal point for engagement with governmental bodies, industry associations, and research institutions. The Officer will be responsible for analyzing value chains, changing trends and dynamics, and ensuring that agricultural loan products respond to the immediate needs of value chain actors.

Main Responsibilities.

1. Agriculture master planning and implementation.

• Contribute to the development of a VFT’s agriculture master planning for the agricultural lending unit, delineating clear short-term and long-term goals.
• Oversee the effective implementation of the plan, ensuring that all activities align with VisionFund Tanzania's strategic plan and VFIs Vison 2030.

2. Product development and refinement.

• Work closely with consultants and the project team to refine and tailor agricultural loan and other finance products based on comprehensive value chain analyses and market studies.
• Continuously assess and enhance existing products, ensuring alignment with the evolving needs of smallholder farmers.

3. Cross-functional collaboration with 

• Foster close collaboration with the Credit Analyst, Insurance Manager, and other pertinent stakeholders to ensure a seamless integration of agricultural products and services.
• Collaborate actively with marketing and communication teams to devise and execute strategies that effectively promote agricultural loan products.

4. Market positioning and branding of VFT Ag. Products and services

• Develop and execute robust strategies for the strategic positioning of VFT's agricultural products in the market.
• Lead branding initiatives aimed at enhancing the visibility and overall attractiveness of agricultural lending offerings.

5. Performance monitoring and reporting:

Establish clear key performance indicators (KPIs) for agricultural loan products, providing a measurable framework for success.

Conduct regular monitoring and evaluation of product performance, delivering comprehensive reports and strategic recommendations to management.

6. Client Engagement and Feedback:

Institute effective mechanisms for collecting valuable feedback from smallholder farmers and clients, ensuring a continuous feedback loop.

Utilize client insights to drive ongoing product improvements and foster an environment of innovation within the agricultural lending unit.

Qualifications: 

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agriculture economics, Business, Agriculture, Finance, or a related field.

Experience: 

Experience of working with development organisations and agricultural partners Experience in delivery of training in value chain development  Any formal training courses/ certificates in agricultural finance Proven experience in product management or a similar role, with a focus on financial products. V.       Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills. Excellent project management and organizational abilities.  Effective communication and interpersonal skills. An understanding of the functions of and the implementation of Credit Bureau strategies.

Other attributes.

Familiarity with the agricultural sector and knowledge of the challenges faced by smallholder farmers. Experience working in microfinance or similar financial institutions. III.            Ability to adapt to a dynamic and fast-paced environment.

Applicant Types Accepted:

Local Applicants Only