Business Development Officer

The Zimba District Women Development Associations (DWDA) is a women-led associations that is registered under the Registrar of Societies whose members are derived from different women groups in the district. Zimba DWDA is a strong base for building women’s voices at all community levels with the aim of enhancing women’s economic empowerment in their communities, hence the focus on income generating activities. The Zimba DWDA as women-led organisation has partnered with We Effect Zambia to implement the Swedish funded Women Economic Empowerment (WEE) project that is currently implemented in Eastern, Western, Central and Southern provinces of Zambia. The project activities are implemented at community level through the DWDA groups and include among other things; increased access to and control over productive resources, such as land. Mobilize, capacitate, and link women producer groups to affordable markets and support the organisations in gender mainstreaming through gender transformative approaches.

Project Background

The Women Economic Empowerment (WEE) project with DWDAs has been running from 1st February 2021 to date. The overall objective of the project is to advance women’s economic empowerment to ensure the capacity of women to participate in, contribute to and benefit from agricultural value chains and processes in ways that affirm the value of their contributions, respect their dignity, promote equality in Eastern, Western, Southern and Central Provinces.
We now seek to recruit staff to fill the following vacancy in the project.

Job Summary:

We are seeking a dynamic and results-oriented Business Development Officer to drive the growth and sustainability of our peanut butter processor and sunflower seed distribution programme and other business initiatives and models within and outside Zimba District. This role is crucial in empowering women entrepreneurs and strengthening the local agricultural value chain. He/ she will develop and implement franchise models, build strategic partnerships, and provide essential training to ensure the success of this vital initiative.

Key Responsibilities:

Franchise Development & Management:
Design and implement a robust franchise model for our peanut butter processor and sunflower seed distribution programme.
Identify, recruit, and train potential franchisees, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge for success.
Develop comprehensive franchise guidelines, operational manuals, and effective marketing strategies.
Business Growth & Market Expansion:
Conduct thorough market research to identify new opportunities for expanding our businesses.
Develop and execute strategic plans to increase revenue and profitability, focusing on sustainable growth.
Analyses customer needs and preferences to tailor our products and services effectively.
Strategic Partnerships & Networking:
Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and private sector partners within the district and beyond.
Actively seek and secure funding and grants to support business expansion and community development projects.
Represent the organisation at meetings, conferences, and networking events to promote our business initiatives.
Capacity Building & Training:
Provide comprehensive training and mentorship to women entrepreneurs in business management, financial literacy, and sustainable agricultural practices.
Develop and deliver engaging training materials and workshops to empower franchisees and community members.
Monitoring, Evaluation, & Reporting:
Track the progress of business development initiatives and franchise operations, ensuring accountability and effectiveness.
Prepare detailed reports on business performance, challenges, and opportunities, providing actionable insights.
Recommend and implement improvements to enhance efficiency and maximise impact.

Qualifications and Experience:

Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Agriculture, Economics, or a related field.
Minimum of 3 years of proven experience in business development, franchise management, or a similar role.
Demonstrated success in growing businesses or social enterprises, preferably within the agricultural sector.
Strong understanding of agricultural value chains, particularly in sunflower oil production.
Experience working with women’s groups or community-based organisations in Zambia is highly desirable.
Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with diverse stakeholders.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and business development tools.
Must be able to speak the local languages of the district.

Personal Attributes:

A strong passion for women’s empowerment and community development in Zambia.
Innovative and strategic thinker with a results-driven approach.
Strong leadership and problem-solving skills, with the ability to overcome challenges.
Ability to thrive in a rural setting and adapt to the local context.
High level of integrity.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should submit their applications within two weeks from the date of this announcement (by [Date: 31st March 2025]). To apply, please follow these steps:

1. Submit a cover letter: Clearly stating your motivation, relevant experience, and qualifications for the position.

2. Attach a detailed CV: Including your education, work experience, skills, and any relevant certifications.

3. Provide supporting documents: Such as academic transcripts, professional certificates, and references.

4. Email your application: To zimbadwda@gmail.com, the email should be addressed to “The DWDA Coordinator” with the subject line “Business Development Officer ”

We look forward to receiving your application!