Livestock Production Expert

About the role

Heifer International is recruiting a Livestock Production Expert to support the Sierra Leone Livestock and Livelihoods Development Project (SLLDP), implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in partnership with IFAD. The expert provides technical assistance to the project, reports to the SLLDP-TA Project Team Leader and receives support from the Heifer Regional team. The role also acts as Heifer's chief brand ambassador for the project.

Key responsibilities

• Establish Livestock Farmers Field Schools (LFFSs) and select Community Animal Health Workers (CAHWs), update training modules, run Training of Trainers and strengthen LFFSs
• Review the Livestock Extension Program, develop a new one if needed, and guide cascading to chiefdoms
• Advise on procurement and restocking of sheep and chickens, livestock feed and forage, water development, and community-based breeding programs
• Support public-private partnerships on animal health and production, improve local breeds, and help MSLEs develop business plans
• Promote market-based livestock production, market assessment and beneficiary selection, and build capacity of extension assistants, cooperatives and smallholders
• Represent Heifer at regional level, share project learnings and monitor progress

Required profile

• Master's degree in Agriculture Science, Agribusiness, Agricultural Economics or a related field, or equivalent
• Fluent in English and local languages, spoken and written
• 10-15 years of relevant experience, including at least 5 years in a supervisory capacity
• Knowledge of livestock production technologies, rangeland management and livestock value chains (poultry, cattle, sheep, goats, dairy)