Description
Heifer International is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, status as a protected veteran, among other things, or status as a qualified individual with a disability. The Organization Since 1944, Heifer International has supported more than 36 million Small Holder Farmer (SHF) families globally lift themselves out of hunger and poverty while caring for the earth in partnership with the communities we serve including Youth & Women. Heifer International is now accelerating its strategic approaches to closing the Sustainable Living Income (SLI) gap for 10 million additional SHF households globally by 2030 using the Sustainable Locally Led Development (SLLD) approach. Function The Livestock Production Expert will possess extensive experience and expertise in various aspects of livestock production and livestock value chain development, aimed at promoting and strengthening the Sierra Leone Livestock and Livelihoods Development Project (SLLDP), which is being implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS) in partnership with International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
The role holder will provide technical assistance (TA) to the SLLDP project in the operation areas, in line with the projectโs plans and requirements. This position will report to the SLLDP-TA Project Team Leader and will receive support from the Heifer Regional team. The expert will be responsible for fostering strategic relationships with the regional Bureau of Agriculture and collaborating closely with the SLLDP on the technical aspects of livestock production. Additionally, the Livestock Production Expert will serve as Heiferโs chief brand ambassador for the SLLDP-IFAD TA provision project in Sierra Leone, representing Heifer in key strategic forums to ensure the organization maintains strong brand recognition within the region in relation to the project. Essential character traits critical for success include: High-level knowledge and experience in livestock production technologies (feed, breed improvement, animal health), rangeland management, and livestock value chain development, including poultry, cattle, sheep and goats, live animals, and dairy/milk value chains in selected districts of Sierra Leone.The role holder must also demonstrate the ability to apply a strategic mindset, business insight, and organizational acumen to drive results in livestock sector commercialization. Strong collaboration, communication skills, the ability to instill trust, and self-awareness are essential. The ability to be a good team player and resourceful is also required. Responsibilities and Deliverables A. Technical assistance in establishing Livestock Farmers Field Schools (LFFSs) and selecting Community Animal Health Workers (CAHWs)
Technical support to the Program Management Unit (PMU) in updating modules; in conducting Training of Trainers (TOT); and in establishing or strengthening LFFSs (20%)
C. Livestock commercialization with strong private sector engagement and market systems approach (20%)
D. Capacity building, relationships with the SLLDP stakeholders (20%)
Design and implement animal health care service.Mainstream Nutrition and Gender in LFFSs.Technical support in Market Assessment and Beneficiary Selection.Technical support in the assessment of the capacities of the established MSLEs; technical assistance in developing guideline for the MSLEs.Technical assistance for PMU.Provide support in facilitating South-South Technical Cooperation (SSTC).Train and coach district extension and Development Assistants (DAs), cooperatives, and smallholder communities.Together with the SLLDPโs PMU, facilitate the different capacity building TOT trainings for district-level experts and implementation of biannual review workshops.Work with Signature Program Lead at Heifer Regional to ensure quality delivery of Heiferโs model.Support the Value Chain Specialist in identifying viable value chain opportunities.Foster a sense of connection and belonging.Show openness to new ideas and foster organizational learning.Maintain country-level requirements for Heiferโs legal operation.E. Any other assigned functions (5%) Perform other job-related duties as requested.Minimum Requirements Masterโs Degree from a recognized university or equivalent in Agriculture Science, Agribusiness, Agricultural Economics, or a related field.Fluent in English, and local languages, both spoken and written.10 - 15 years of relevant experience with at least five (5) years in a supervisory capacity.Most Critical Proficiencies Proven knowledge of new livestock technologies and development strategies.Inspired and motivated.Aligns resources to accomplish key objectives and assigns clear accountability for important objectives. Achieves meaningful accomplishments.Ability to support differences of opinion, and help individuals resolve conflict in a constructive manner.Proven experience in development actions under the following or related themes: Food Security and Nutrition, Environment, Women and Youth Empowerment Excellent analytical and writing skills.Excellent networking and negotiation skillsSkills with Microsoft Office package, internet browser, and other appropriate technologyGood understanding of and sensitivity to poverty, social and ethnic issuesUnderstand the importance of traditional customs to various ethnic issue.An excellent team player with the ability to work with diverse cultural groups. Essential Job Functions and Physical Demands Motivated to work responsibly with little supervision.Demonstrate a high degree of honesty and integrity.Constant face-to-face, telephone and electronic communication with colleagues and the stakeholders and others Constant sitting, standing, and walking, with occasional bending and lifting; may work at a computer for extended periods of time.Ability and willingness to work a flexible scheduleWillingness and ability to travel extensively locally Ability to meet and deal with others in a courteous and tactful manner.Key Behavioural Competencies Accountability Professional Excellence Humility Customer Orientation Empathy Innovation Deadline forApplications: 18th July 2025