Agricultural Development Specialist

KDS seeks a mid-level qualified Agricultural Development Specialist to support our research and programming during a four-week consultancy between April and May 2014. The consultant will collect information and data from stakeholders across various agricultural value chains in the Bekaa Valley, including but not limited to production, post-harvest processing and marketing and sales, as well institutional, social, economic and policy considerations. The ideal consultant will be able to assess and analyze constraints and opportunities along an entire value chain, and develop detailed written narratives that highlight key data/ constraints/ opportunities/ risks such as environmental, gender, completion, sustainability, and institutional and commercial considerations per selected value chain.  This analysis will inform planned interventions, particularly in Lebanese host communities facing economic strain as a result of the influx of Syrian refugees. Agricultural Development Specialist candidates must have strong communication, quantitative and qualitative analytical skills, with significant experience in agricultural production in Lebanon. Qualified candidates should meet the following requirements:  Minimum Education: BA in Economics, Agricultural Economics, Agricultural Engineering, Agribusiness or a related field. Masters/MBA preferred; Minimum Experience: At least three years of relevant experience in international development; Qualitative and Quantitative understanding of economic analysis; Strong interview skills and experience; Must possess good communications and interpersonal skills; Fluent Arabic and English language skills. Strong English writing skills a must; Field experience in Lebanon (strongly preferred); Detail oriented and organized; High level of proficiency in MS Office applications. Expected Deliverables Develop work plan in coordination with KDS Project Manager and/or Technical Lead Provide weekly updates on research to present preliminary findings Written final report of findings, and presentation of report to client (in coordination with KDS Project Management/Technical Lead) Hard copies of interview notes/photos, etc. Reporting: The Agriculture Development Specialist will report to KDS’ designated Team Leader for this project. Key Development Services (KDS) is a development consulting firm based in Beirut, Lebanon. KDS provides specialized technical assistance, and project management and support to international organizations and private sector clients in the MENA region. KDS is an equal opportunity employer. Salary commensurate with past experience.  Interested and qualified candidates can apply with a cover letter and CV to recruitment@kdsconsult.com by March 28, 2014.