SME Export and Competitiveness 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 Small and Medium-sized Enterprise (SME) Export and Competitiveness Lead for the anticipated USAID Sri Lanka Economic Modernization Activity. The SME Lead will spearhead the design and implementation of targeted strategies and initiatives aimed at enhancing the export capacity of SMEs, fostering innovation, and improving their overall competitiveness. Collaborating closely with local partners, government agencies, and industry stakeholders, they will provide technical expertise, identify market opportunities, and facilitate access to resources and capacity-building programs for SMEs.

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

Conduct research driven by market demand within different sectors to identify challenges and facilitate export-driven opportunities for SMEs in new and existing markets.

Assist in the creation of innovative business models to stimulate access to the necessary resources and services that enable SMEs to contribute to markets focused on exports.

Identify prospects for upgrading processing methods and adding value to foster the development of innovative products.

Foster connections and relationships among SMEs, anchor enterprises, and export firms through platforms like trade exhibitions and business exchange initiatives.

Develop a plan, in collaboration with local business service providers, to enhance SME capabilities in key domains such as marketing, financial efficiency, operational improvements, and the adoption of ICT tools.

Identify and connect SMEs with cutting-edge technologies aimed at enhancing productivity, reducing post-harvest losses, and gaining entry to export markets.

Supervise initiatives to broaden market reach and awareness, working alongside business service providers and SME associations to help SMEs gain a better grasp of and respond to market possibilities.

Facilitate the matchmaking of investments between SMEs and sources of capital to improve practices and access export markets.

Increase the availability of business data and market insights for each sector by employing market intelligence services and other information platforms.

Facilitate discussions involving public-private dialogues and advocacy efforts backed by evidence. These discussions include sector associations, groups, government entities, and institutions that support SMEs, all working together to address trade regulations, procedures, and service-related challenges.

Qualifications

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

Experience and expertise in SME development, export competitiveness, and agribusiness value chains for USAID and other donor funded projects.

Deep knowledge of the agribusiness sector in Sri Lanka.

Experience working directly with SMEs.

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