Workforce Development Specialist, Sri Lanka

Since 1963 and in 148 countries, ACDI/VOCA has empowered people in developing and transitional nations to succeed in the global economy. Based in Washington, D.C., ACDI/VOCA is a nonprofit international development organization that designs and delivers technical and management solutions in agriculture, economic growth, and resilience to promote economic prosperity and social inclusion.

Workforce Development Specialist, Sri Lanka

ACDI/VOCA is seeking a Workforce Development Specialist for an upcoming Economic Modernization Activity in Sri Lanka funded by USAID. The program will improve economic competitiveness through an improved business enabling environment, increased small and medium business export competitiveness, and upgraded workforce capacity.

The Workforce Development Specialist will develop positive long-term relationships with business and industry representatives to address workforce needs and assist with talent supply and demand. They will provide leadership and supervision to industry sector partnerships in creating workforce solutions for business and industry. The program is anticipated to start in 2024 and this position will be based in Sri Lanka.

Responsibilities

Meet with local industry representatives to determine workforce and/or talent needs

Assess business organizations and provide comprehensive evaluation of employment and training needs

Collaborate with Gender, Youth, and Social Inclusion Specialist to implement strategies to improve equity and inclusion across all workforce development related activities

Maintain relationships with training providers to develop responsive workforce solutions

Provide opportunities for business and industry to assist with the development of trainings

Build and maintain productive relationships with public-sector, private-sector, and non-profit employers to create career pathways for future talent

Foster strong partnerships with economic development entities, chamber organizations, and other workforce development agencies to ensure alignment and execution of collaborative workforce strategies

Provide oversight and management of industry sector partnerships and any workforce solutions and/or outputs

Gather information for additional funding opportunities to support workforce solutions and programming

Gather labor market information, talent demand and skills requirements, and data to create workforce development strategies

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in business, economics, or related field is required; master’s degree is desired.

Minimum 8 years of work experience in international development or relevant workforce or capacity development field.

Knowledge of and experience with USAID and/or other international donor programs’ rules and regulations is required.

Experience working in Sri Lanka preferred.

Fluency in English required.

Sri Lankan nationals are strongly encouraged to apply.

Please apply online at The applications will be reviewed promptly upon receipt, only finalists will be contacted. ACDI/VOCA is an equal opportunity employer. Women, minorities, and people from diverse groups are encouraged to apply. ACDI/VOCA will never request payment or charge a fee to apply for any position.