Regional Value Chain Technical Advisor – Light Industry
Reports to: Programme Component Manager
Duration: Until 31 August 2026
Duty Station: Lesotho
Background
The Government of Lesotho has received support from the European Union and the Government of Germany to implement the project: “Lesotho economic growth, job creation and Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) implementation support programme” that will support regional value chains. The objective is to improve access to identified regional value chains through capacity building of relevant stakeholders in Lesotho and other selected SADC countries to create an enabling environment for private sector development in selected regional value chains and improved capacities of MSMEs to manage selected value chains within the framework of EPA. The two value chains that have been identified are: agro- processing focusing on natural ingredients, cosmetics, herbs and spices; and light industry associated with goose and duck feathers to produce textiles and clothing such as down pillows and bedding. In addition, digital services are set to be a supporting measure to the two mentioned value chains. The project will be implemented by GIZ.
The programme “Cooperation for Enhancement of SADC Regional Economic Integration (CESARE)” supports the Southern African Development Community (SADC) in promoting trade between its 16 Member States. As part of this, the trade component works with the SADC Secretariat in a variety of areas ranging from the elimination of non-tariff barriers (NTBs) to trade; support for Integration (CESARE)” supports the Southern African Development Community (SADC) in promoting trade between its 16 Member States.
As part of this, the trade component works with the SADC Secretariat in a variety of areas ranging from the elimination of non-tariff barriers (NTBs) to trade; support for
Responsibilities
- Undertake a thorough analysis of feasibility, operational viability and measurable outcomes and related outputs of the value chain, including identification of concrete project activities, financial resources and recommendations for light industry interventions
- Explore forward and backward linkages of the identified sectors within the SADC region and assess potential for future activities or scaling up of current initiatives
- Provide technical and policy advice and train stakeholders in technical/operational/sustainability aspects of the light industry activities implemented by the project; plan, organize, and participate in capacity development activities
- Provide detailed inputs to project reporting and evaluation, including assumptions and risks
- Support planning and monitoring of efficient use of project resources
- Advocate for strategic partnerships, best practices and policy dialogue in support of enhanced governance for the light industry value chain
- Interact with relevant ministries, departments, and other stakeholders to improve cross-sectoral policies and strategies concerning the light industry sector
- Coordinate partnerships with non-government stakeholders including civil society organizations, donors, farmers’ organizations, and private sector actors
Deliverables / Outputs
The deliverables are to be discussed and agreed upon with the supervisor, referencing key project documents and the project work plan.
Required Qualifications, Competences and Experience
Qualification:
- Master’s degree in Economics, Agricultural Economics, International Trade, Law, Project Management or similar discipline
Professional Experience and Competences:
- Relevant work experience in light industry or textile and apparel value chain support (e.g., process analyses, capacity development, training)
- At least 10 years of relevant work experience
- Strong analytical skills (feasibility, evaluations, project design) and professional writing skills
- Experience working in international organizations, EU-funded projects, or similar institutions is an advantage
- Sound knowledge of the SADC region and/or Member States
- Willingness to travel within the SADC region
Other Knowledge and Additional Competences:
- Strong communication skills
- Proficiency in ICT technologies and tools such as Microsoft Teams, Outlook, Excel
- Advanced proficiency in English is compulsory
Additional Information
- This position is based in GIZ Maseru, Lesotho
- GIZ’s mobile working policy supports flexibility in remote and office-based work
- GIZ is a signatory of the Diversity Charter and is committed to equality, inclusion, and anti-discrimination
- Women and people with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply
- The contract period is aligned with the project’s commissioning timeline, ending 31 August 2026
Application Process
Only applications that meet the following criteria will be assessed:
Please submit:
- A Cover/Motivation Letter (PDF, max. 2 pages) clearly stating:
- Why you are the preferred candidate
- The value you will bring to the project
- Your salary range expectation
- A detailed CV (PDF, max. 3 pages) including your nationality
Email your application to:
📧 [email protected]
Subject line: Regional Value Chain Technical Advisor – Light Industry
Attention: Head of Human Resource
Deadline for applications: 30 June 2025
NB: Interviews will be held virtually and/or in Maseru, Lesotho.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Applications without a motivation letter will not be considered.