Program Analyst – Rotational Leadership at One Acre Fund
We are in search of a highly skilled and versatile professional with 2 to 5 years of relevant experience to address critical operational and strategic challenges within our country programs. This role is pivotal as we expand our reach to serve 10 million farmers by 2030.
Location: Burundi, Ethiopia, Malawi, Nigeria, Uganda, Zambia
Career Level: Professionals
About One Acre Fund
Established in 2006, One Acre Fund empowers 5.5 million smallholder farmers to enhance farm productivity. Serving nine countries—regions encompassing two-thirds of Africa’s farming population—we deliver premium farm inputs, tree saplings, flexible financing options, cutting-edge agronomic guidance, and a comprehensive suite of agricultural support services. This integrated approach consistently boosts farmers’ income and asset growth on cultivated land by over 35%, while fostering long-term resilience. Our impact is driven by a dedicated workforce of 9,000+ full-time employees, representing a rich diversity of backgrounds and professional expertise.
About the Role
One Acre Fund’s country programs operate in dynamic, fast-paced environments, where urgent needs can arise unexpectedly—whether it’s a critical data system redesign, a logistics bottleneck during peak season, or a new initiative demanding immediate project management support. To address these evolving challenges, the Program Rotation Analyst plays a pivotal role. This position involves executing strategic and operational responsibilities, leading cross-departmental projects, and developing a deep understanding of program design, innovation, business development, field operations, and internal systems. You will be assigned to the country team with the greatest operational need at any given moment, collaborating closely with them to create tangible benefits for farmers. This position seeks a highly motivated, versatile generalist who excels in ambiguous environments, rapidly grasps contextual nuances, and aims to establish a strong, cross-functional foundation across One Acre Fund’s operations before transitioning into a specialized, long-term role.
Responsibilities
Cross-Department Project Management
Direct and oversee critical initiatives that involve collaboration across multiple teams, encompassing both the development of innovative farmer-focused platforms and the optimization of internal workflows. As a coordinator, step into pivotal phases—such as harvest seasons, pilot program launches, or budget cycles—when the team requires extra capacity to ensure seamless operations. Craft concise briefing notes, strategic proposals, and high-impact presentations for senior leadership, focusing on key areas such as digital payments and value-added services.
Analytics & Problem-Solving
Perform cost-benefit assessments and construct analytical models to evaluate the viability of emerging opportunities or to analyze trade-offs in program design. Derive meaningful insights by analyzing data collected from field operations, finance, and human resources to inform and guide strategic decision-making processes. We are responsible for overseeing budget tracking and conducting business variance analysis (BVA) for designated departments.
Field & Operations Support
Conduct visits to designated field locations to oversee data collection efforts, facilitate the integration of new team members, or execute pilot initiatives. Examine workflows to pinpoint inefficiencies and propose actionable enhancements for improved performance. Document insights gathered from field observations and propose adaptations to enhance program design.
Partnership & Business Development
Facilitate donor identification and contribute to the development of concept notes and grant proposals as required. Collaborate with municipal authorities and affiliated entities to facilitate the execution of program goals.
Career Growth and Development
We foster a dynamic culture of continuous growth and are committed to nurturing our talent. You will participate in weekly one-on-one meetings with your supervisor, receive guidance from mentors, and engage in structured training initiatives. Additionally, you will receive consistent performance evaluations to support your professional development. Bi-annual career assessments provide structured opportunities to explore your ambitions and long-term objectives. Furthermore, you will play an integral role in shaping an expanding enterprise while cultivating a fulfilling and sustainable career path.
Qualifications
General qualifications are assessed consistently across all positions. For this particular role, the following criteria apply:
A minimum of two to five years of pertinent professional experience is required, with a proven capacity to address intricate, open-ended challenges effectively.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities are essential—you will excel at breaking down complex issues, determining the most critical elements, and implementing effective solutions.
Adaptability stands out as a key attribute for this role, enabling you to assimilate into new environments with efficiency and adjust seamlessly to evolving priorities.
With a strong commitment to humility and a dedication to service, you prioritize the needs of farmers and your colleagues, actively seeking and implementing feedback to drive continuous improvement.
Demonstrated leadership, whether in a professional setting or elsewhere, is essential; you have been entrusted with responsibility for results rather than merely overseeing duties.
Comfort with ambiguity is essential—outstanding performance does not require a rigidly defined role.
Demonstrated, sustained enthusiasm for advancing agricultural progress and wholeheartedly supporting One Acre Fund’s mission.
Demonstrated willingness to relocate to non-capital city locations for the entirety of your assigned deployments.
Required is proficiency in English, with fluency in French being a considerable asset, particularly in light of our extensive operations within Francophone regions.
Preferred Start Date: As soon as possible
Job Location: We are currently seeking qualified candidates from Zambia, Burundi, or Malawi to join our team.
Benefits: Comprehensive benefits including health insurance and housing, along with other valuable perks, are provided.
Contract Duration: 2 years
Eligibility: One Acre Fund is able to facilitate work permit sponsorship for this position. Preference will be given to candidates who are nationals of, or who possess substantial professional experience and a strong work history in, the countries where we operate.
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