Contract Duration: 2 years fixed term contract with possibility of extension

(Female Candidates are encouraged to apply)

Required Technical Competence: 

• Master's Degree in Economics or a related field
• 3 years of practical work experience in the private sector or the development sector related to economics, agricultural economics, agricultural enterprise/market systems or a related field
• Experience in private sector development and knowledge knowledge of blended finance instruments would be an added advantage
• Knowledge in macroeconomic, sector level and political economy analysis
• Familiar with the functioning of the Federal, Province and Local Governments, as well as the Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO) sector
• Proficiency in spoken and written English and Nepali. Extensive Networks with legislators, government, NGOs, private sector and media
• Experience in Project Cycle Management

Required Methodological and Social Competence: 

• High levels of energy, initiative and flexibility in quickly adjusting to changing work program requirements
• Ability to juggle numerous competing demands and priorities, respond quickly to internal and external client requests and set priorities
• Very pronounced analytical and conceptual thinking, and the ability to capture it in clearly and logically in writing 
• Keen aptitude to learn
• Proven facilitation, moderation and presentation skills 
• Able to define clear objectives & priorities
• Able to work independently and under pressure and willing to take initiatives & accept  a wide spectrum of tasks
• Have demonstrated leadership and managerial competencies 
• Capable to work in a multicultural team 
• Sensitive in areas of gender and social inclusion 
• Able to deal with criticism and conflict 
• Have client orientation and able to network & negotiate
• Have a good understanding of  the national context

Responsibilities: 

• Providing in-depth economic and political economy analysis of federal, provincial and local governments
• Providing strategic economic expertise and innovative ideas to re-shape the agricultural market systems portfolio, especially in Province 1 within Employment and Income domain of Swiss Cooperation Strategy for Nepal
• Leading the sector policy dialogue and contribute to sector policy; making recommendations on strategies and policy options for governments
• Undertaking analytical works and lead teams to provide high quality customized analytical and advisory services linked to country circumstances taking into account relevant lessons from international experience on issues and policies related to market systems and private sector development (including reform of finance, governance systems)
• Devising strategic entry points for Swiss support in the areas of local economic development and private sector development and ensure that Swiss Country Strategy and overall engagement is in line with national policies and priorities 
• Representing and promoting SDC including its values and principles; Maintaining regular dialogue with the government, private sector and partner organizations relevant to the areas of economic development, private sector engagement, agricultural market systems of development.
• Leading the internal discussions at the Embassy on all aspects related to economic development, engagement with the prate sector, as well as the agricultural market systems
• Generating 'lessons learnt and best practice' papers; handling complex technical, institutional and program implementation issues in the sector; leading the development proposals; leading the interface with governments, private sector and other genies in resolving implementation issues