To participate in the identification and development of projects through the Project Development Life Cycle to achieve the IDC’s strategic objectives and contribute to industry development goals. This role requires a candidate with formal Agricultural related qualifications and experience in the Agro-Industries sector. The successful candidate will also be expected to develop projects across sectors. The role requires experience in project development and not project management per se. In addition to the relevant technical/business qualifications, candidates will be required to have conducted techno-economic assessments and evaluations of projects, as opposed to experience being limited to a technical nature. Financial / Shareholder Returns Optimal structuring of projects utilizing project finance principles and IDC’s financing instruments. Ensure that all projects are developed and structured in such a way to facilitate inclusive development and maximize IDC developmental and financial outcomes. Internal / Operational Processes To participate in specific projects during the different phases of Project Development (idea generation, project scoping, pre-feasibility study, bankable feasibility study, financing and pre-implementation) To participate in the evaluation of projects at every Decision Gate of the Project Development Life Cycle Proactive identification of project opportunities to build the pipeline Assessment of external project applications Ensure that projects are aligned with the strategic objectives of the unit and will contribute to meeting the Unit’s objectives and project milestones Identify risks (including during implementation) and defining mitigation plans to minimise these risks Monitor and manage project development to ensure it is implemented correctly, according to plan and within budget Quality control of projects, implemented correctly to contribute to SBU’s strategic objectives and ensure clients meet financial obligations to IDC etc. Provide inputs and prepare comprehensive funding reports to internal committees for decision making during the project development phases. Account Management functions relating to projects such as disbursements, clearing of conditions precedent, etc. Review and provide inputs to project development legal agreements. Customer Focus Stakeholder Management Building influential and sustainable relationships with strategic partners to assist the unit in achieving strategic objectives. Participating in project-specific steering committees. Establishing and maintaining effective networks to source business, build industry links and build IDC brand awareness. Effectively interacting with different internal Strategic Business Units and departments to fulfil the process requirements related to any specific project. Managing and enhancing the levels of service and communication to ensure the provision of client service excellence. Learning, Leadership People Growth Driving and managing own development to enhance own competencies Participating in knowledge sharing in the team and cross functionally Qualifications Minimum qualification: relevant technical Degree in Agriculture. An Honours qualification would be an advantage. An additional commercial qualification would be beneficial. Selection Criteria 5-8 years related experience of which 3-4 years should be in Project development. Previous experience managing project scope, execution and scheduling for multiple development projects Understanding and application of corporate management and structuring processes Understanding and application of project development, project management and project finance Experience in interpretation of financial statements Knowledge of the market environment and technology landscape Knowledge of financing instruments Understand and review models of proposed financial structures Technical Competencies Project Development Skills Financial Acumen Risk Identification And Mitigation Stakeholder Management And Customer Focus Report Writing Skills Sector Specific Technical Knowledge Behavioural Competencies Presentation And Communication Skills Negotiation Skills Relationship Building And Networking Skills Persuading And Influencing Skills IDC is committed to equality, employment equity and diversity. In accordance with the employment equity plan of the JDC and its employment equity goals and targets, preference may be given, but not limited to candidates from underrepresented designated groups.
