Advisor Trade and Value Chains (Textile/Apparel)
- Organization
- GIZ KE
- Location
- Kenya, Nairobi
- Job Type
- Full-time
- Deadline for Applications
- 10/07/2025
- Where to Apply
- https://www.fuzu.com/kenya/jobs/advisor-trade-and-value-chains-textile-apparel-giz
- Tags
- Full-time
As part of its commitment to support sustainable economic growth and economic transformation in Kenya, GIZ is preparing a new project titled “Green Trade for Sustainable Development” to be commissioned by the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), with envisaged start of operations in January 2026. The project’s focus lies on amplifying trade under the ratified Kenya EU Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with accessing new markets or expanding exports in already established markets mainly in the EU. The project will follow a dual approach:
1) technical advise to the State Department of Trade (SDT) of the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry (MITI) regarding prioritised areas of EPA implementation, the EPA’s Trade and Sustainable Development (TSD) Chapter and the European Green Deal due diligence requirements for export into the EU.
2) A second work stream focuses on strengthening value chains, presumably in the textile and apparel sector, with additional support to the leather industry. The project aims to enhance competitiveness, increase market access, and foster inclusive job creation in key segments of these sectors.
To implement this project, GIZ is seeking an experienced Advisor for Value Chains (Textile,
Apparel) with a strong private sector and trade background. The role involves technical advisory, stakeholder coordination, and strategic implementation of interventions designed to boost the productivity and sustainability of these industries.
Responsibilities
A. Responsibilities
Acts as the main technical advisor for GIZ in the textile/apparel and to a lesser extent, to the leather sector; particularly regarding private sector engagement, local value chain development, and export readiness;
Leads the identification, planning, and implementation of support measures for Kenyan enterprises in the textile/apparel sector;
Builds strategic partnerships with industry stakeholders on both sides, Kenyan as well as regional and especially international ones, business associations, government institutions, and development partners;
Provides ongoing advisory support on policy, business environment, and trade facilitation issues affecting the value chains;
Coordinates the planning and execution of so-called Corrective Action Plans (“CAPs”) to be carried out for selected companies to address technical engineering potential;
Coordinates and provides technical advise for the State Department of Trade in close collaboration with private business associations, e.g. Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) in the area of EPA, EPA TSD, Green Deal and Enviornment, Social and Governance (ESG) topics;
Coordinates relevant research, assessments, and private and public sector support activities under the project.
B. Tasks
1. Technical Advice for implementation of project activities
Provides targeted advisory services to local companies and industry actors on improving competitiveness, quality standards, and market access, especially to the EU market;
Identifies bottlenecks and opportunities along the value chains and recommends practical, evidence-based interventions;
Develops and implements capacity building measures tailored to SMEs in the textile and apparel sector, and where applicable, the leather industry;
Supports the design and delivery of business development services, including training, coaching, match-making (targeted fair visits, buyer-seller-desks, liaising with international agents and brokers and others) and digital solutions;
Engages with policymakers to inform policy dialogue and contribute to an improved enabling environment for the sectors.
2. Project Management and Coordination
Plans and implements activities such as workshops, field visits, capacity-building events, and stakeholder meetings;
Ensures alignment of activities with overall project goals and contributes to monitoring and evaluation;
Coordinates with other GIZ programmes and development partners for synergy and integration;
Manages procurement processes and supervises external consultants and service providers as per GIZ rules and procedures;
Supports the preparation of progress reports, communication materials, and knowledge products.
3. Communication and Networking
Builds and maintains relationships with key industry stakeholders, including manufacturers, designers, business associations, export bodies, KRA and regulators;
Serves as GIZ’s focal point for trade/private sector engagement in the targeted value chains;
Contributes to project visibility through communication and outreach activities (e.g. social media posts);
Represents GIZ at relevant forums, trade fairs, and industry events;
Participates in national and regional dialogue platforms related to textile, apparel, and leather value chains.
C. Required qualifications, competences and experience Qualifications
University degree (Master’s preferred) in textile engineering, industrial production, business administration, international trade, economics, or a related field
Professional experience
At least 5 years of relevant practical experience in the textile and apparel industry in Kenya or East Africa – preferably in production, sourcing, supply chain management, or export development;
Demonstrated understanding of local and international markets, industry standards, and trends in the textile and leather value chains;
Experience working directly with private sector actors (e.g., manufacturers, SMEs, exporters);
Experience with donor-funded projects, industry development programmes, or business
support services is an asset.
Additional competences
Technical skills
Strong understanding of textile/apparel value chain dynamics, compliance requirements, and market demands;
Knowledge of sustainable and circular practices in the sector is a plus.
Planning and coordination
Ability to plan and implement activities independently, manage multiple stakeholders, and meet deadlines;
High level of organizational and coordination skills.
Communication
Strong interpersonal and intercultural communication skills;
Excellent writing, reporting, and presentation skills;
Fluency in English and Kiswahili is required.
Client orientation
Strong client orientation and commitment to establishing and maintaining productive partnerships with clients;
Monitors ongoing developments inside and outside the clients’ environment to keep informed and anticipate challenges;
Takes personal responsibility and accountability for service delivery to clients and keeps clients well informed of progress or setbacks in projects;
Duty station: Nairobi
Contract Duration
From 20.01.2026 until December 31, 2028.
Submission of Application
Vacancy Reference Number: GIZ/SED/06/09/2025
Equal Employment Opportunity
At GIZ Kenya, we are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not tolerate discrimination of any kind. We actively seek individuals with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and skills to build a stronger, more impactful global team.
We provide an environment of respect and psychological safety, ensuring equal employment opportunities for all. Discrimination based on race, colour, ancestry, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, ethnic origin, disability, marital status, or any other protected status is not tolerated in any of our workplaces.
Ethics
GIZ is committed to the safety, dignity, and well-being of all individuals we interact with, including staff, partners, community members, and program participants. We uphold the highest standards in preventing sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment. Child abuse or any form of misconduct by or toward team members is strictly prohibited.
All staff are expected to behave professionally, respect local laws and customs, and complete mandatory ethics e-learning courses upon hire.
Data Confidentiality
In accordance with GIZ’s data protection policy, all candidate applications are stored in our database for six (6) months and deleted thereafter.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
