- Master's degree in Economics, agribusiness, development studies, or related field.
- Minimum 6–8 years of progressively responsible experience in MSD, value chain development, and sector engagement in the Afghanistan context.
- Demonstrated experience providing senior technical advisory support to complex donor-funded programs (EU experience strongly preferred). Proven ability to engage and influence private sector actors and partners.
- Strongly analytical, facilitation, and donor-ready writing skills.
- Experience integrating MSD with resilience, climate, or NRM programming.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Strong technical knowledge of market systems development, inclusive value chains, and private sector engagement.
- Practical expertise in SME development, business upgrading, and financial inclusion approaches.
- Ability to translate technical concepts into clear, actionable guidance for field teams.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and mentoring skills.
- Excellent interpersonal and coordination skills in multicultural environments.
Supervisory Responsibilities: This position does not have line management or supervisory authority.
Key Working Relationships:
- Internal: EU Program Manager, Head of Programming, Project SPOs (Agriculture, DRM, SME& SLG, MEAL), and operations team.
- External: Market actors, partners, communities, provincial and district authorities, and relevant stakeholders (as appropriate)
Required Languages – Fluency in Dari, Pashtu, and working proficiency in English required.
Travel: Based in Herat Province, with up to 80% field travel anticipated.
CRS provides daily allowances, per diem, and accommodation for approved Mahrams accompanying female staff, in line with CRS Afghanistan policy.
CRS is committed to providing daily allowances for mahrams who accompany female staff on day trips to the field, and per diem and accommodation for mahrams who accompany female staff on work-related trips that require overnight stays.
Agency REDI Competencies (for all CRS Staff):
Agency competencies clarify expected behaviors and attitudes for all staff. When demonstrated, they create an engaging workplace, help staff achieve their best, and help CRS achieve agency goals. These are rooted in the mission, values, and guiding principles of CRS and used by each staff member to fulfill his or her responsibilities and achieve the desired results.
- Personal Accountability – Consistently takes responsibility for one’s own actions.
- Acts with Integrity - Consistently models values aligned with CRS Guiding Principles and mission. Is considered honest.
- Builds and Maintains Trust - Shows consistency between words and actions.
- Collaborates with Others – Works effectively in intercultural and diverse teams.
- Open to Learn – Seeks out experiences that may change perspective or provide an opportunity to learn new things.
Agency Leadership Competencies:
- Lead Change – Continually looks for ways to improve the agency through a culture of agility, openness, and innovation.
- Develops and Recognizes Others – Builds the capacity of staff to reach their full potential and enhance team and agency performance.
Strategic Mindset – Understands role in translating, communicating, and implementing agency strategy and team priorities.
We welcome as a part of our staff people of all faiths and traditions who share our values and our commitment to serving those in need. CRS’ processes and policies reflect our commitment to protecting children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation. Disclaimer: This job description is not an exhaustive list of the skill, effort, duties, and responsibilities associated with the position.
Disclaimer: This position does not have line management or supervisory authority.
CRS' talent acquisition procedures reflect our commitment to protecting children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation.
CRS is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Protection Acknowledgment: CRS prohibits all forms of abuse and exploitation towards children and vulnerable adults. As a professional candidate, you commit to adhering to the Agency’s policy on protection, rights and dignity of children and vulnerable adults and to safeguard them from abuse and exploitation as defined in CRS’ Safeguarding Policy
