Advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in in
Economics, Business Administration, International Development, or a related field. At least
10 years of experience in managing technical assistance, training, and mentorship programs
for MSMEs and startups, showcasing ability to equip businesses with the necessary skills to
thrive. Additionally, the specialist should demonstrate experience in ecosystem mapping,
pipeline development, enterprise diagnostics, incubation and acceleration support,
institutional coordination across MSME support actors, market linkage facilitation, and
collaboration with financial institutions on the design of sustainable products for youth-led
MSMEs. A deep understanding of the Botswana economic context, strong analytical and
project management skills, and excellent communication and stakeholder engagement
abilities are crucial for success in this role. More generally, the specialist should demonstrate
the following: (i) Experience in MSME ecosystem diagnostics (mapping enablers,
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intermediaries, and bottlenecks); Proven track record in incubator/accelerator design and
operationalization (directly relevant given LEA's mandate); (ii) Experience designing MSME
BDS frameworks, particularly voucher-based or market-driven BDS models that have
replaced failed supply-driven approaches; (iii) Familiarity with value chain development
approaches in the priority sectors mentioned (agritech, creative industries, BPO, green
economy); (iv) Practical experience with women and youth entrepreneurship programming,
including gender-lens investing principles; and (v) Knowledge of cluster development /
industrial symbiosis approaches (relevant for agro-processing and creative industries).
Commercial banking experience, especially in micro, small and medium enterprises, women
financing, youth financing, will be highly desirable skills.