Intercrops Technical Manager - Tomato and Ginger Processing

About the role

TechnoServe is recruiting an Intercrops Technical Manager to lead technical oversight of its tomato and ginger value chain program in Nigeria. The role reports to the Program Director and is based in Abuja or Lagos, with regular travel to the ten project implementation states. The program aims to create more than 100,000 jobs in processing, distribution and value addition for youth, women and persons with disabilities.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of technical interventions for tomato and ginger, including value addition, post-harvest handling, quality management and equipment selection
• Identify and pilot innovations to reduce losses and improve processing efficiency, and develop upgrading strategies for women-led micro and small enterprises
• Supervise technical consultants and train clients and beneficiaries in good manufacturing practices, food safety and quality management
• Build partnerships with processors, aggregators, input suppliers, off-takers and financial institutions, and facilitate market linkages
• Engage government agencies, research institutes and industry associations, and advise the Program Development team on proposals
• Contribute to donor reports, work with the MEL team on indicators and impact assessment, and mentor the project team

Required profile

• Advanced degree in agricultural science, food science, agricultural engineering, agribusiness, crop science, agricultural economics or a related field, with at least 5 years of relevant experience (7 years with a bachelor's degree)
• Prior experience with private sector companies, SMEs and processing firms; experience in Nigeria and in designing technical training programs is highly desirable
• Fluency in English; local travel of 40-50%
• Experience in gender-integrated programs is a plus

Required skills

• Technical expertise in tomato and ginger processing, post-harvest systems and food safety standards
• Familiarity with Nigerian regulatory frameworks (NAFDAC, SON)
• Team management, stakeholder engagement and report writing