Business and Enabling Environment Lead, USAID Sri Lanka Economic

Research Triangle Institute (RTI) has over 30 years’ experience assisting governments, communities, and the private sector. As a not-for-profit, independent research institute based in North Carolina, USA, RTI has roughly 6,000 employees with global experience implementing international development projects. RTI's Sustainable Growth & Resilience (SG&R) technical unit within the International Development Group brings together RTI experts and capabilities across food security, agriculture, energy, environment, water, governance, and economic opportunity. SG&R will leverage RTI's experience designing and delivering multisectoral programming and technical solutions to respond to climate change, build resilience, and promote economic growth around the world.

SG&R’s Global Food Security and Agriculture portfolio is working to strengthen agricultural markets, engage youth and women as critical leaders of the on- and off-farm workforce, and tackle the dual burden of malnutrition around the globe. RTI’s work is helping foster stronger food systems, reduce malnutrition in all its forms, build resilience and engage the next generation of food security leaders. RTI is currently partnering on nearly 30 projects in East Africa, including activities focused on private sector-driven agricultural growth in Rwanda and market systems development in Kenya.

Project Description

The purpose of the anticipated USAID Sri Lanka Economic Modernization Activity is to enhance Sri Lankan economic competitiveness through an improved business enabling environment, increased small and medium business export competitiveness, and upgraded workforce capacity. Key activity themes may include greater agriculture sector efficiency and competitiveness and inclusive, accessible, and desirable jobs.

Position Description

RTI is seeking a Business and Enabling Environment Lead for the anticipated USAID Sri Lanka Economic Modernization Activity. The Business and Enabling Environment Lead will be responsible for enhancing agri-business competitiveness through the improvement of the overall business enabling environment. This role involves collaborating with government entities, private sector stakeholders, and other relevant actors to identify, address, and mitigate barriers that impede the growth and competitiveness of agri-businesses in Sri Lanka.

This position will be based in Colombo, Sri Lanka and report to the Deputy Chief of Party (DCOP).

Position is contingent upon award and funding.

Responsibilities

Lead the design, development, and implementation of strategies to enhance the business enabling environment for agri-businesses, including regulatory and policy reforms.

Collaborate with government ministries, agencies, and local authorities to advocate for changes in policies and regulations that impact agri-business competitiveness.

Conduct thorough assessments of the regulatory landscape and identify specific challenges that hinder agri-business growth.

Develop and maintain strong partnerships with relevant stakeholders, including industry associations, business chambers, and farmer organizations.

Identify opportunities for public-private dialogue and collaboration to address challenges and create an enabling environment for agri-businesses.

Provide technical expertise and advice on regulatory and policy matters to government counterparts and private sector stakeholders.

Lead capacity-building initiatives for government officials and private sector representatives on improving the business enabling environment.

Monitor and evaluate the impact of regulatory and policy changes on agri-business competitiveness and recommend adjustments as needed.

Contribute to the project's reporting requirements by providing regular updates on progress, challenges, and achievements related to business enabling environment initiatives.

Stay updated on relevant developments, best practices, and innovations in the field of business enabling environment and agri-business competitiveness.

Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree and 8 years of experience, Master's degree and 6 years of experience, PhD and 1 year of experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Minimum of 5 years of experience in private sector development, regulatory reform, or related fields, with a focus on improving business enabling environments.

Strong understanding of agri-business value chains and the challenges they face in Sri Lanka.

Demonstrated ability to lead and coordinate multi-stakeholder initiatives.

Familiarity with USAID or other donor-funded projects is a plus.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Ability to travel and work throughout Sri Lanka and in difficult terrain/conditions at times.

Fluency in written and spoken English is required.

Fluency in one or more local languages strongly preferred.

Regular Full-Time