Technical Advisor - Innovation Framework

Job Description

With a focus on growth-oriented businesses, the agro-processing sector, as well as innovation promotion and digitalization, the TC module “Private Sector and Innovation Promotion (PSInno)” builds on previous programmes in private sector development, agribusiness, and digital transformation. PSInno aims to increase SME competitiveness, create jobs, and promote sustainable business practices. The project supports improved access to markets and finance, strengthens entrepreneurial capacities, and promotes innovative approaches to enterprise development. As a result, SMEs are enabled to access new market opportunities, increase turnover, and stimulate employment. The position holder supports macro-level project activities aimed at strengthening framework conditions and promoting innovation to enhance SME competitiveness in agro-processing and the digital economy. The advisor provides technical support to partner institutions on the development and adaptation of policies, strategies, and procedures that foster SME growth, job creation, and sustainable value chains. This includes contributing to policy processes related to innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation. The role promotes science-to-business (S2B) approaches by strengthening linkages between research institutions and the private sector, supporting the translation of research and technologies into commercially viable solutions. The position holder also contributes to strengthening innovation ecosystems by supporting innovation hubs and intermediary organisations, and promotes the development of AI and digital ecosystems to enhance productivity, competitiveness, and market access for SMEs.

Key Duties

• Support the development of AI, data, and cybersecurity ecosystems, including stakeholder engagement and partnership building.
• Strengthen innovation hubs and intermediaries to improve support services for startups and SMEs.
• Facilitate science-to-business (S2B) collaboration between research institutions and private sector actors.
• Support the design and implementation of innovation programmes (e.g. challenges, pilots, accelerators).
• Promote adoption of digital and data-driven solutions within SMEs and agribusiness value chains.
• Conduct targeted ecosystem analyses to inform programme activities and interventions.
• Support coordination with key stakeholders and contribute to programme implementation and reporting.

How to Apply

Interested and suitable applicants are to forward their Curriculum Vitae (C.V.) and a one-page cover letter stating their motivation to the position and added value to the project to four (4) weeks after the deadline, please consider your application unsuccessful.