Essential Job Details

• Position Title: Senior Agribusiness Supply Chain Advisor
• Job Requisition ID: SENIO005068
• Location: Nairobi, Kenya
• Employment Type: Full-Time, 7-Month Contract
• Number of Vacancies: 1
• Salary: Not disclosed
• Category/Department: Programs
• Reporting To: Program Manager
• Application Deadline: Not specified (applications reviewed on a rolling basis)
• Contract Duration: August 2025 – February 2026
• Travel: Up to 30% within Kenya

Introduction

The Senior Agribusiness Supply Chain Advisor role at TechnoServe in Nairobi is a transformative career opportunity for a seasoned professional dedicated to advancing inclusive horticultural sourcing in East Africa. This 7-month contract position, part of the Inclusive Retail Market Access program in partnership with AGRA, focuses on co-creating and executing commercially viable sourcing models that integrate smallholder farmers and emerging suppliers into retail value chains. Ideal for Kenyan professionals with expertise in agribusiness, supply chain management, and stakeholder coordination, this role offers a chance to contribute to TechnoServe’s mission of creating sustainable pathways out of poverty while advancing your career in Nairobi’s vibrant development sector.

As a key liaison with retail partners, you will drive the development of inclusive sourcing frameworks, facilitate capacity building for suppliers, and document lessons to inform regional scale-up. With a focus on technical expertise, relationship management, and program execution, this position is perfect for individuals passionate about transforming agricultural value chains and empowering smallholder farmers.

About TechnoServe

TechnoServe is a global leader in leveraging business and market solutions to combat poverty, operating in over 35 countries across Africa, Latin America, and Asia for more than 50 years. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., with a significant presence in Nairobi, TechnoServe empowers smallholder farmers, entrepreneurs, and micro-retailers by providing skills, connections, and access to markets. The organization addresses challenges such as low literacy, limited market access, and climate change through innovative programs that drive economic development and sustainable livelihoods, particularly for women and youth.

In Kenya, TechnoServe has been active since 1973, implementing programs like the Inclusive Retail Market Access initiative, which strengthens horticultural sourcing to benefit smallholder farmers. With a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, TechnoServe fosters a collaborative and mission-driven workplace that values integrity, innovation, and impact. By joining TechnoServe, you will contribute to a legacy of transforming lives through market-led solutions while advancing your professional growth in a supportive environment.

Program Context: Inclusive Retail Market Access

The Inclusive Retail Market Access program, implemented by TechnoServe in partnership with AGRA, aims to strengthen inclusive horticultural sourcing in East Africa by fostering sustainable partnerships between retailers and emerging suppliers, including smallholder-linked producers, aggregators, and SMEs. Running from August 2025 to February 2026, the program’s design and pilot phase in Kenya involves research, co-creation, and implementation of sourcing models that enhance market access for smallholder farmers. The Senior Agribusiness Supply Chain Advisor plays a pivotal role in aligning retailer priorities with supplier capabilities, ensuring compliance with donor guidelines, and documenting scalable solutions for regional expansion.

Key Responsibilities

The Senior Agribusiness Supply Chain Advisor will serve as the primary liaison with retail partners, driving the co-creation and execution of inclusive sourcing models. The role combines technical expertise in agribusiness with strong facilitation and relationship management skills to support program objectives. Below is a detailed breakdown of the key responsibilities:

1. Retail Partner Engagement

• Act as the main point of contact for retail partners during the co-design and implementation phases, ensuring seamless communication and collaboration.
• Facilitate retailer assessments to evaluate operational readiness, sourcing capacities, and alignment with program goals.
• Lead structured workshops and meetings to co-develop inclusive sourcing action plans, fostering stakeholder buy-in and consensus.
• Support alignment of retailer priorities with program objectives, ensuring supplier capabilities meet retail standards.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with retail partners, addressing concerns and fostering long-term partnerships.
• Coordinate regular updates and feedback sessions to ensure retailer engagement throughout the program.

2. Inclusive Sourcing Model Development

• Support the co-creation of tailored sourcing frameworks for different retail business models, such as supermarkets or wholesale markets.
• Develop strategies to address systemic barriers, including price transparency, supplier onboarding processes, and delivery logistics challenges.
• Coordinate with suppliers and retailers to formalize pilot models through contracts and procurement planning, ensuring clarity and compliance.
• Monitor early performance indicators, such as supplier delivery rates and product quality, and adapt model components as needed.
• Ensure sourcing models are inclusive, prioritizing smallholder-linked producers and SMEs to enhance market access.
• Collaborate with technical advisors to integrate best practices in supply chain management and sustainability.

3. Capacity Building for Suppliers

• Facilitate targeted training programs for suppliers in critical areas, such as quality assurance, postharvest handling, and compliance with retail standards.
• Provide input on tools, templates, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to institutionalize supplier-readiness practices.
• Support troubleshooting during supplier onboarding and contract execution, addressing issues like quality control or delivery delays.
• Coordinate with program teams to deliver technical support, ensuring suppliers meet retailer expectations.
• Monitor supplier performance and provide feedback to improve compliance and efficiency.
• Develop resources to enhance supplier capabilities, such as training manuals or digital tools.

4. Learning, Documentation, and Coordination

• Contribute to the development of knowledge briefs and business case documentation to capture insights from retailer engagement.
• Document lessons learned from pilot implementation, including successes, challenges, and recommendations for scale-up.
• Support the creation of scalable sourcing models based on program outcomes and stakeholder feedback.
• Coordinate closely with internal program teams, technical advisors, and Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) specialists to align execution with program strategy.
• Prepare reports and presentations for donors and stakeholders, highlighting program impact and progress.
• Ensure documentation complies with TechnoServe and AGRA reporting requirements.

5. Additional Duties

• Support program planning by providing insights on supply chain dynamics and stakeholder needs.
• Train program staff and partners on inclusive sourcing practices and contract management.
• Contribute to cross-functional initiatives, such as sustainability or gender inclusion strategies.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Program Manager to support the Inclusive Retail Market Access program.

Qualifications and Skills

To excel as a Senior Agribusiness Supply Chain Advisor at TechnoServe, candidates must meet the following qualifications and skills, as outlined in the job description and enriched with industry context:

• Education:
• Master’s degree in Agribusiness, Business Administration, Development Studies, or a related field from a recognized institution.
• Professional certifications in supply chain management (e.g., Certified Supply Chain Professional – CSCP) or agribusiness are an advantage.
• Experience:
• Minimum 5 years of experience in agribusiness, supply chain management, market systems, or inclusive business models.
• Proven track record in managing commercial relationships in food systems or horticulture markets, with successful negotiation and partnership management.
• Experience working in East Africa’s horticulture or retail food sectors is preferred.
• Familiarity with donor-funded agriculture market development programs, such as those supported by AGRA, is highly desirable.
• Languages:
• Fluency in English and Kiswahili (required) to communicate effectively with stakeholders and suppliers.
• Technical Skills:
• Technical expertise in agribusiness development and formal market integration, including knowledge of horticultural value chains.
• Ability to co-create actionable sourcing strategies with commercial partners, addressing price transparency and logistics.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for documentation, reporting, and presentations.
• Knowledge of supply chain tools, such as procurement platforms or inventory management systems.
• Soft Skills:
• Strong relationship management skills to build trust with retailers, suppliers, and program teams.
• Excellent communication abilities to facilitate workshops, negotiate terms, and present findings.
• Stakeholder coordination skills to align diverse interests and priorities.
• Problem-solving skills to address systemic barriers and operational challenges.
• Organizational skills to manage multiple contracts, timelines, and stakeholders in a fast-paced environment.
• Workshop facilitation skills to lead co-creation sessions and training programs.
• Preferred Skills:
• Experience with smallholder farmer programs to understand their challenges and opportunities.
• Knowledge of donor compliance requirements for reporting and contract management.
• Training delivery experience to support supplier capacity building.

Supervisory Responsibilities

The Senior Agribusiness Supply Chain Advisor may supervise short-term consultants or project associates during the pilot implementation phase of the Inclusive Retail Market Access program. Responsibilities include assigning tasks, providing guidance, and ensuring deliverables meet program standards and timelines.

Company Culture and Values

TechnoServe fosters a mission-driven, inclusive, and collaborative culture, rooted in its commitment to creating sustainable pathways out of poverty. The organization values diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees and protecting staff, partners, and beneficiaries from abuse and exploitation. TechnoServe’s workplace emphasizes innovation, integrity, and impact, encouraging employees to think creatively and deliver results that transform communities. As a Senior Agribusiness Supply Chain Advisor, you will contribute to a culture that prioritizes collaboration, accountability, and excellence, aligning with TechnoServe’s vision of empowering enterprising individuals in low-income communities.

How to Apply

Apply now for the Senior Agribusiness Supply Chain Advisor position in Nairobi. To submit your application:

• Prepare your detailed CV and cover letter clearly stating the job title (Senior Agribusiness Supply Chain Advisor) and Job Requisition ID (SENIO005068) in the subject line.
• Submit your application via the online portal: Apply for Senior Agribusiness Supply Chain Advisor.
• Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis; early submission is encouraged.
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Note: TechnoServe is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer and does not charge any fees during the recruitment process. Candidates requiring accommodations due to disabilities should contact Human Resources at recruitment@tns.org or call +1 202 785 4515.

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Senior Agribusiness Supply Chain Advisor, Nairobi jobs, agribusiness careers, supply chain management, inclusive market access

Role Overview

The Senior Agribusiness Supply Chain Advisor role at TechnoServe in Nairobi is a critical position within the Inclusive Retail Market Access program, focusing on co-creating and executing inclusive sourcing models for horticultural value chains. This 7-month contract role involves engaging retail partners, building supplier capacity, and documenting scalable solutions to benefit smallholder farmers. Ideal for professionals with expertise in agribusiness and supply chain management, this position offers a chance to drive sustainable development while advancing your career in Nairobi’s vibrant development sector.

Why This Role Matters

As a Senior Agribusiness Supply Chain Advisor, you will play a pivotal role in transforming horticultural value chains by integrating smallholder farmers and SMEs into retail markets. Your work will enhance market access, improve farmer incomes, and foster sustainable partnerships, directly impacting low-income communities. This role is both impactful and rewarding, offering the opportunity to contribute to TechnoServe’s mission of poverty reduction while working with a globally recognized development organization.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

The Senior Agribusiness Supply Chain Advisor will engage in a variety of tasks to support program objectives. Daily responsibilities include:

• Retail Engagement: Serving as the primary liaison with retailers, facilitating assessments and workshops to align priorities.
• Sourcing Model Development: Co-creating frameworks to address barriers like price transparency and logistics.
• Supplier Training: Delivering training on quality assurance and postharvest handling to ensure supplier readiness.
• Contract Coordination: Supporting the formalization of pilot models through contracts and procurement planning.
• Performance Monitoring: Tracking early performance indicators and adapting models as needed.
• Documentation: Preparing knowledge briefs and reports to capture lessons and support scale-up.
• Stakeholder Coordination: Collaborating with program teams, technical advisors, and MEL specialists to align activities.

Skills Development Opportunities

The Senior Agribusiness Supply Chain Advisor role offers significant opportunities for professional growth, including:

• Enhancing Agribusiness Expertise: Gaining advanced skills in horticultural supply chain management and inclusive sourcing.
• Developing Relationship Management: Strengthening abilities to engage and negotiate with commercial partners.
• Building Training Skills: Leading capacity-building programs for suppliers and program staff.
• Improving Compliance Knowledge: Mastering donor-funded program requirements and legal frameworks.
• Strengthening Analytical Skills: Analyzing supply chain data to inform strategies and scale-up recommendations.
• Advancing Facilitation Skills: Leading workshops and co-creation sessions with diverse stakeholders.

These opportunities position you for career advancement in agribusiness, supply chain management, or program leadership within the development sector.

Working in Nairobi

Nairobi, Kenya’s capital and economic hub, is a vibrant center for development and agribusiness, hosting numerous NGOs and international organizations. As a Senior Agribusiness Supply Chain Advisor at TechnoServe’s Kenya Main Office, you will work on-site in Nairobi, engaging with retail partners, suppliers, and program teams in a dynamic, mission-driven environment. Nairobi’s role as a hub for agricultural innovation provides a rich professional community, with access to modern amenities and opportunities to connect with stakeholders across East Africa. This setting is ideal for contributing to impactful programs while advancing your career.

Career Growth Potential

The Senior Agribusiness Supply Chain Advisor role, though a 7-month contract, is a gateway to advanced roles in agribusiness, supply chain management, or program leadership. By working with TechnoServe, you will gain exposure to donor-funded programs, horticultural value chains, and international development practices. Key career growth prospects include:

• Senior Agribusiness Roles: Advancing to positions like Agribusiness Program Manager or Supply Chain Director.
• Program Leadership Opportunities: Transitioning to roles overseeing development initiatives or partnerships.
• Regional Expertise: Contributing to TechnoServe’s operations across East Africa, enhancing your regional impact.
• Professional Development: Accessing training and mentorship to strengthen supply chain and program management skills.
• Long-Term Opportunities: Potential for extension or transition to permanent roles within TechnoServe or partner organizations.

The role’s focus on impactful development work positions you for success in the global development sector.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

TechnoServe is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees and protecting against discrimination. The organization is proud to be an affirmative action employer, encouraging applications from diverse backgrounds, including women, persons with disabilities, and other protected groups. TechnoServe conducts rigorous background and reference checks to ensure the safety of staff, partners, and beneficiaries. As a Senior Agribusiness Supply Chain Advisor, you will contribute to a culture of integrity, collaboration, and impact, aligning with TechnoServe’s mission to empower communities.

Who Should Apply

The Senior Agribusiness Supply Chain Advisor role is ideal for professionals with a Master’s degree in Agribusiness, Business Administration, or Development Studies, and at least 5 years of experience in agribusiness, supply chain management, or market systems. If you have a strong understanding of East African horticulture markets, experience with donor-funded programs, and excellent relationship management skills, this position offers a chance to thrive in Nairobi’s development sector while making a meaningful impact.

How to Stand Out as an Applicant

To increase your chances of being shortlisted for the Senior Agribusiness Supply Chain Advisor role:

• Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasize your experience in agribusiness, supply chain management, or inclusive market systems in your CV.
• Showcase Partnership Success: Include examples of negotiating and managing partnerships with retailers or suppliers.
• Demonstrate Horticulture Expertise: Highlight familiarity with East African horticulture or retail food sectors.
• Emphasize Facilitation Skills: Provide examples of leading workshops or training programs for stakeholders.
• Align with TechnoServe’s Mission: Reflect your commitment to poverty reduction and inclusive market access in your cover letter.

Application Tips

When applying for the Senior Agribusiness Supply Chain Advisor position:

• Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant experience in agribusiness, supply chain management, and donor-funded programs.
• Write a Concise Cover Letter: Address your alignment with TechnoServe’s mission and your qualifications for the role.
• Submit Early: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so apply as soon as possible.
• Ensure Accuracy: Verify that your CV and cover letter are correctly formatted and include the Job Requisition ID (SENIO005068).
• Prepare for Interviews: Be ready to discuss your experience with inclusive sourcing, stakeholder engagement, and program implementation.

Why Work at TechnoServe

Working as a Senior Agribusiness Supply Chain Advisor at TechnoServe offers a unique opportunity to contribute to sustainable development while advancing your career in Nairobi. Key benefits include:

• Impactful Work: Empower smallholder farmers by integrating them into retail value chains.
• Dynamic Environment: Work in a mission-driven, collaborative team focused on innovation.
• Career Advancement: Gain skills and exposure that position you for leadership roles in development.
• Regional Impact: Contribute to a program with potential for East African scale-up.
• Inclusive Culture: Thrive in a workplace that values diversity, equity, and inclusion.

By joining TechnoServe, you will play a critical role in transforming horticultural value chains, improving livelihoods, and driving economic development, all while building a rewarding career in a globally recognized organization.

Additional Information

TechnoServe is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to fair and transparent recruitment processes. The organization does not charge any fees for applications and conducts thorough background checks to ensure safety. Candidates requiring accommodations due to disabilities should contact Human Resources at recruitment@tns.org or call +1 202 785 4515. For more details, refer to the official application portal: Apply for Senior Agribusiness Supply Chain Advisor.

Conclusion

The Senior Agribusiness Supply Chain Advisor role at TechnoServe in Nairobi is a transformative opportunity for professionals passionate about agribusiness, supply chain management, and sustainable development. By joining TechnoServe, you will drive inclusive horticultural sourcing, empower smallholder farmers, and contribute to impactful change in Kenya’s agricultural sector. With a focus on diversity, innovation, and professional growth, this role offers a chance to make a lasting impact in Nairobi’s development landscape. Apply today to become part of TechnoServe’s mission to create sustainable pathways out of poverty.