Cooperative Managers: Cocoa - Socodevi

SOCODEVI contributes to improving the living conditions of communities by supporting the creation and strengthening of sustainable and inclusive cooperative or mutual companies.

Job Description

• Location: Ashanti and Western North (15 districts)
• Position Type: Full-time (One year contract with possibility of renewal based on performance and availability of funds)
• Reports To: Board of Directors/Interim Management Committee (IMC)

Job Summary

The purpose of this position is to ensure the effective running of the Cooperative Office and the successful implementation of the Income Generation Activity (IGA) of the Cooperative. The Manager of the Cocoa Cooperative will oversee the day-to-day operations, ensure sustainable practices, enhance productivity, and strengthen relationships with farmers and stakeholders. The role requires a dynamic leader with a strong understanding of the cocoa industry, the IGA industry chosen by the cooperative, cooperative management, and rural development.

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The position manages and supervises other staff that the Cooperative may employ to ensure the effective delivery of their tasks. The nature of the position requires strong relationships and collaboration with District/Municipal Assemblies and other decentralized departments, including but not limited to the Department of Cooperatives (DOC), Department of Agriculture (DOA), COCOBOD, and Business Advisory Service (BAC).

Responsibilities and Tasks

The Cooperative Manager has the responsibility of ensuring the set-up and effective running of the cooperative office. The position is in the Ashanti or Western North regions, and in the district where the Cooperative office is located.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Management

• Lead and manage the cooperative's operations to achieve set goals.
• Develop and implement strategic plans that align with the cooperative's mission and objectives.
• Supervise and support staff, ensuring effective team performance.

Operational Oversight: Establishment and Management of Cooperative Office

• Work with the Interim Management Committee (IMC) and SOCODEVI to ensure that the Cooperative has a functional and well-established office.
• Ensure that all Management Tools required for the running of the Cooperative Union, as well as the Cooperative Societies under the union, are in place and being used.
• Put in place the mechanisms needed to ensure the successful take-off of the selected IGA of the cooperative.
• Liaise with the IMC and SOCODEVI to ensure that all resources needed - financial, material, and human - are available for the successful implementation of the IGA.
• Ensure that all essential Management Tools for the management of the IGA are in place.
• Keep up-to-date records on the implementation of cooperatives activities as well as the IGAs.
• Ensure compliance with quality standards and sustainable farming practices.
• Manage the cooperative’s financial resources prudently.
• Facilitate training and capacity-building programs for cooperative members.
• Prepare the cooperatives for the annual AGMs and audit.
• Provide support to the cooperative in promoting and commercializing its IGAs.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Support IMC/BOD to effectively manage the cooperative’s relationships with all stakeholders, including but not limited to the Department of Cooperatives (DOC), the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA), Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), Business Advisory Centre (BAC), etc.
• Design and establish effective communication systems and channels among beneficiary communities, other stakeholders, and government authorities.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with farmers, buyers, and other key stakeholders.
• Represent the cooperative in industry forums and negotiations.

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Sustainability and Development

• Promote environmentally sustainable practices among members.
• Drive initiatives to improve the livelihood of farmers and their communities.
• Identify opportunities for growth and diversification of the cooperative’s activities.
• Perform any other duties as assigned.

Required Skills or Experience

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree/diploma in Agriculture, Agribusiness, Community Development, Social Sciences, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in agricultural management, cooperative management, NGO, communities, District/Municipal Assemblies, or a similar role.
• Strong understanding of the cocoa industry and supply chain in Ghana.
• Strong understanding of the IGA sector that the cooperative chose.
• Experience in financial management and budget planning.
• Experience or understanding in the cooperative movement in Ghana.
• Experience in marketing and commercialization.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Good spoken English and excellent writing skills, plus the ability to speak Twi.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse groups, including farmers, government officials, and industry partners

Skills and Competencies

• Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Knowledge of sustainable agricultural practices.
• Proficiency in project management and organizational skills.
• Familiarity with rural development and community engagement.
• Ability to adapt to changing environments and handle multiple priorities.
• Ability to undertake field trips to the communities.

Salary: GHS 3000

Office Locations

• Candidates residing in and around the locations below will be preferred