Programme Officer (Fibres, Textiles and Cotton), DECI/SEC (FT-LTD)

Organizational Context

The International Trade Centre's (ITC) Section on Sector and Enterprise Competitiveness (SEC) supports developing country MSMEs in sustainable value-chain development and market linkage improvement. The Fibres, Textiles, and Clothing (FTC) programme specifically enhances the international competitiveness of these sectors, focusing on women's empowerment, youth employment, and climate change reduction.

Job Purpose

This role supports the management and implementation of projects within the Fibres, Textiles, and Clothing (FTC) and light manufacturing sectors. The Programme Officer will assist Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) by providing knowledge and coaching, developing tools to understand market trends, and enhancing their pre- and post-production services. The objective is to improve their competitiveness, enabling them to become preferred suppliers for international brands and retailers. The role involves contributing to sustainable value-chain development, sector-wide transformation, and improved market linkages, with an emphasis on women's empowerment, youth employment, and climate change mitigation.

Responsibilities

The Programme Officer will participate in the development, implementation, and evaluation of FTC programmes and projects, monitoring progress and identifying issues for corrective action. Responsibilities include conducting consulting assignments, facilitating workshops, and developing client action plans. The role involves researching and analyzing information on the FTC and leather sectors, assisting in policy development, and designing and executing surveys. The officer will prepare various written outputs, provide support for meetings and conferences, and conduct training workshops. Field missions, including guidance to consultants and drafting mission summaries, are also part of the role. Additionally, the officer will coordinate budget and funding activities, prepare related reports, and supervise national project staff and consultants.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of relevant experience in project or programme management is required (seven years with a first-level degree). Experience in the fibre, textiles, clothing, or leather sector is desirable, as is experience with projects in these sectors within developing countries. Experience working with brands/retailers on sourcing, environmental sustainability, and supply chain due diligence in the FTC or light manufacturing sectors is also desirable.

Skills

Professionalism in trade policy, product development, and sustainability drivers; ability to analyze issues and conduct research; strong planning and organizing skills; client orientation and partnership building; creativity in problem-solving and proposing new ideas.

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