Business Adviser, Market Development Facility (MDF)- Tonga

Business Adviser, Market Development Facility (MDF)- Tonga (Multiple Positions)

Project Overview and Role:

Market Development Facility (MDF) is an Australian Government funded multi-country initiative which promotes sustainable economic development, through higher incomes forpeople, in our partner countries.

We connect individuals, businesses, governments and NGOs with each other, and with markets at home and abroad. This enhances investment and coordination and allows partnerships to flourish, strengthening inclusive economic growth. MDF is funded by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and New Zealand Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT). It is implemented by Palladium in partnership with Swisscontact.

MDF is expanding its presence in the Pacific, to Samoa, Vanuatu and Tonga. MDF Tonga is recruiting several Business Advisers. We are looking for candidates with a diverse range of skills. Some of the qualities we are seeking include:

Creativity and an eye for innovation
Robust analytical skills
Business acumen
Persuasive communication and negotiation skills
Excellent English communication skills – verbal and written.

This is a unique opportunity to be part of our flexible and dedicated team working to build a stronger, more resilient and equitable Tonga and the Pacific. The position is perfect for individuals that are looking to apply their investigative skills and gain hands-on experience in economic development in a thriving and supportive workplace.

The Business Adviser analyses economic opportunities and constraints to growth and develops innovative solutions with businesses and other organisations. The sectors in which you will work may change over time but are likely to include one or more of the following: agriculture, tourism, manufacturing and financial services.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

Meeting with a wide variety of public and private stakeholders, especially businesses, government officials, workers and farmers, to understand how the economy, sectors, markets and businesses in Tonga function. This will include travel and fieldwork throughout the country.
With the support of colleagues and management, conducting socioeconomic analysis, including assessing the business environment, poverty, gender, industry competitiveness, as well as the roles of businesses, traders and farmers. This will include identifying constraints to, and opportunities to promote economic growth.
Assisting with the creation of strategies that will allow MDF to address the constraints identified, and achieve MDF’s pro-poor economic development objectives.
Designing innovative activities in line with MDF’s strategies. This will include working with a wide mix of organisations, devising new business models, negotiating with prospective partners, and drafting concept notes and contracts.
Developing strong working relationships with program partners and other external stakeholders, from government, the private sector and non-government organisations.
Monitoring the progress of activities, making adjustments based on lessons, and identifying opportunities to scale up the best ideas.
Working with Quality and Inclusion staff to create, monitor and update quality and inclusion documentation, including results chains, results measurement plans, field surveys, etc
Applying inclusion frameworks and strategies (gender equality, disability inclusion) to all program activities.

Required Qualifications:

Essential

1. An pioneering attitude, and a strong interest in working with the private sector on innovative business models.
2. Willingness to work hard and travel extensively within Tonga, meeting a diverse range of stakeholders, conducting research and monitoring activities.
3. Demonstrated interpersonal skills with both colleagues and external stakeholders.
4. Familiarity with issues affecting the Tongan economy, business environment and international business trends.
5. At least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline, such as economics, business, agriculture, tourism, or international development, or equivalent professional experience.
6. Excellent English language skills (written and spoken).

Desirable
7. Work experience in economic development, business, or closely related fields.
8. The ability to speak and comprehend the native langu age (Tongan)
9. The ability to undertake short-term travel to Fiji and other MDF Pacific locations for capacity building (subject to travel and health restrictions).

Application Details

Apply online by clicking on the “Apply now” button below. Please submit your CV and brief cover letter (no more than one page) outlining your suitability in line with the requirements of the position.

The position is open to nationals of the country of assignment and permanent residents with authority to live and work in the country of assignment. Rates of pay are based on local labour standards.

Applications Close: Midnight 10th March 2023(Nuku’alofa, time)

MDF is committed to creating creative and diverse workforce. In addition to competitive pay and benefits, we offer internal and external learning and professional development of staff.