National Coordinator - Shea Network Ghana

Shea Network Ghana (SNG) is a dynamic organization comprising shea sector businesses, stakeholders, and value chain actors. Established in 2010, SNG serves as a unifying force within the Ghanaian shea industry, dedicated to influencing policy, resolving sector-wide challenges, and fostering coordinated growth. Headquartered in Tamale, at the heart of shea-producing communities, SNG has a decade-long track record of implementing impactful projects aimed at enhancing industry visibility, promoting inclusion of shea collectors, and conserving shea resources in Ghana.

Job Description

Position Overview

SNG is seeking a highly motivated and experienced individual to serve as the National Coordinator. Reporting directly to the SNG Board, the National Coordinator will be responsible for the efficient management of the SNG Secretariat and will play a pivotal role in driving the strategic vision of the organization. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong leadership, fundraising acumen, networking, and a passion for fostering collaboration and growth within the shea sector.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership

• Provide visionary leadership and implement the strategic direction of the Board to drive the organization towards its goals.
• Represent SNG and articulate its mission, values, and objectives to stakeholders at national and international levels in collaboration with the Board
• Assume overall management responsibilities for the SNG Secretariat, ensuring smooth operation and effective utilization of resources.
• Provide visionary leadership and strategic direction to drive the organization towards its goals.
• Represent SNG and articulate its mission, values, and objectives to stakeholders at national and international levels.
• Act as the primary liaison between SNG and external partners, fostering collaborative relationships and alliances.

Value-Chain Coordination

• Explore and introduce innovation that will enable members to access market both locally and internationally including the facilitation and organization of Trade Fairs among similar activities
• Lead the development and implementation of a Membership-Drive Strategy to expand SNG's network and enhance industry representation.
• Co-coordinate project activities aimed at improving industry visibility, inclusion of shea collectors, and conservation of shea resources.
• Facilitate the organization and holding of SNG Annual General Meetings to engage stakeholders, review progress, and plan future initiatives.
• Collaborate with national and international networks to foster synergies, share best practices, and advocate for the interests of the shea value chain.

Policy Implementation

• Carry out a comprehensive Assessment of the policy environment of the shea industry and determine the key policy issues for Advocacy
• Take a proactive approach in seeking funding opportunities through expression of interest and proposal development to support SNG's initiatives.
• Facilitate the holding of periodic planning and meetings to assess progress, identify challenges, and devise strategies for policy advocacy.
• Undertake any assignments considered technically suitable and within the ambit of the Network Executive Board to advance SNG's policy objectives.

Fund Raising and Sustainability

• Take a proactive approach in seeking funding opportunities through expression of interest and proposal development to support SNG's initiatives.
• Introduce a strategy to get members pay dues and also explore fee paying for conferences

Required Skills or Experience

• Master’s degree in a relevant field
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in leadership or management roles within the development sector, with a focus on agriculture, rural development, or related fields.
• Proven track record in fundraising, project management, and stakeholder engagement.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Strong understanding of policy advocacy and demonstrated ability to influence decision-makers.
• Ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Familiarity with the shea sector or similar agricultural value chains in Ghana is an asset.

Skill Set

• Self-starter:  Being able to drive the job with  minimum supervision
• Leadership: Demonstrated ability to provide visionary leadership and strategic direction, with a focus on fostering collaboration, innovation, and results-driven decision-making.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to effectively articulate ideas, influence stakeholders, and represent the organization at various forums and events.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain positive relationships with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, donors, private sector partners, and community representatives.
• Project Management: Proven experience in project planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, meet deadlines, and deliver high-quality results.
• Fundraising and Resource Mobilization: Track record in identifying funding opportunities, preparing grant proposals, and cultivating relationships with donors and funding agencies to secure financial support for organizational initiatives.
• Policy Advocacy: Sound understanding of policy processes and advocacy strategies, with the ability to analyze policy issues, develop advocacy campaigns, and engage policymakers to influence policy decisions in favor of the shea value chain.
• Team Building and Management: Strong leadership skills with experience in building and managing high-performing teams, fostering a collaborative work environment, and providing mentorship and professional development opportunities to staff.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to think strategically, anticipate emerging trends and challenges, and develop innovative solutions to address complex issues facing the shea sector, while aligning with organizational goals and objectives.
• Cross-Cultural Competence: Cultural sensitivity and adaptability to work effectively in a multicultural environment, with a deep respect for local customs, traditions, and perspectives.
• Problem-Solving: Analytical mindset with the ability to identify problems, evaluate alternatives, and develop practical solutions to overcome challenges and achieve organizational objectives.
• Networking and Partnership Development: Proven ability to build and maintain strategic partnerships with national and international organizations, networks, and alliances to leverage resources, share knowledge, and amplify impact.
• Commitment to Gender Equality and Social Inclusion: Strong commitment to promoting gender equality, social inclusion, and empowerment of marginalized groups within the shea value chain, with a focus on creating opportunities for women and youth.