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Department: Marketing and Value Chains Reports To: Compliance Manager Duty Station: Head Office Job Purpose The Market and Standards Expert will report to the Compliance Manager. The Expert is expected to develop, implement, monitor, and enforce agricultural market standards that promote fair trade, quality assurance, market integrity, consumer protection, and competitiveness of Zimbabwean agricultural products in domestic, regional, and international markets. The role supports AMA’s mandate to regulate agricultural markets, improve market access, and facilitate compliance with national and international marketing standards. This position is central to strengthening agricultural market integrity, protecting producers and consumers, and improving the competitiveness of Zimbabwe’s agricultural products in local, regional, and international markets.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Harare
- Category: Agriculture
- Closing Date: 2026-08-07
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and review agricultural market standards, regulations, and guidelines.
- Monitor compliance with market standards across agricultural value chains.
- Conduct market inspections, audits, and compliance assessments.
- Coordinate standardization initiatives with government ministries, regulatory agencies, and industry stakeholders.
- Promote adoption of grading, packaging, labelling, and quality standards.
- Monitor implementation of commodity marketing regulations.
- Identify market irregularities and recommend corrective measures.
- Conduct market surveillance and prepare compliance reports.
- Support development of traceability and certification systems.
- Undertake market research on standards and emerging market requirements.
- Build capacity of farmers, traders, processors, and exporters on market standards.
- Collaborate with regional and international standards organizations to enhance market competitiveness.
- Provide technical advice on sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) and technical barriers to trade (TBT) requirements.
- Maintain databases on compliance, inspections, and market performance.
- Prepare policy briefs, technical reports, and recommendations for management.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture, Agricultural Economics, Agribusiness, Food Science, Quality Assurance, Marketing, Standards Management, or a related field.
- A Master’s Degree is an added advantage.
- Professional certification in Quality Management, Standards, or Regulatory Compliance is an added advantage.
- At least 5 years’ relevant experience in agricultural marketing, standards, quality assurance, regulatory compliance, or market development.
- Experience working with agricultural value chains, inspection systems, and standards implementation.
- Knowledge of Zimbabwe’s agricultural marketing framework and regional trade standards.
How to Apply
Apply by email: [email protected]
About the Company
The Agricultural Marketing Authority (AMA) is a pivotal regulatory body operating within Zimbabwe's vital agricultural sector. Its primary mandate encompasses the comprehensive oversight and regulation of the production, marketing, and processing of diverse agricultural products across the nation. This critical role ensures structured market operations, fair practices, and stability throughout the agricultural value chain, benefiting both producers and consumers. Through its regulatory framework, AMA plays an essential role in fostering growth and efficiency for agricultural enterprises throughout Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe's regulator for agricultural production, marketing, and processing.
Website: https://ama.co.zw/
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications, certifications, or education are typically needed for a Market and Standards Expert role at the Agricultural Marketing Authority in Zimbabwe?
A relevant degree in Agriculture, Agricultural Economics, Marketing, Food Science, or a related field is usually essential. Practical experience in agricultural marketing, quality control, or standards development, particularly within the Zimbabwean context, is also highly valued.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of a Market and Standards Expert at the Agricultural Marketing Authority?
Daily tasks often involve conducting market research, developing and monitoring compliance with agricultural quality standards, and engaging with farmers, traders, and other stakeholders. You would also be responsible for preparing reports and advising on market access strategies to ensure fair trade practices.
What is the typical work culture and expectations for a professional working at a parastatal like the Agricultural Marketing Authority in Zimbabwe?
The work culture is generally structured and values professionalism, adherence to regulations, and teamwork. There's an expectation for punctuality, a strong work ethic, and collaborative engagement with various stakeholders in the agricultural value chain.
What are the realistic career progression or growth paths for a Market and Standards Expert in Zimbabwe?
Successful experts can progress to senior specialist roles, managerial positions within the Authority, or other government bodies focused on agriculture. Opportunities may also arise in agricultural consulting, private sector firms dealing with commodity trade, or further academic research in market development.
What typical benefits package, such as leave, medical aid, or pension, can one expect from a role at the Agricultural Marketing Authority?
Employees typically receive a standard benefits package that includes annual leave, medical aid coverage, and contributions to a pension scheme. Specifics can vary based on organizational policy and seniority, but these are commonly provided.
How should one apply for such a role in Zimbabwe, and what do employers typically look for in candidates?
Applications usually require a detailed CV and a compelling cover letter highlighting relevant experience in agriculture, market analysis, or standards compliance. Employers seek candidates with strong analytical skills, an understanding of Zimbabwean agricultural policies, and excellent communication abilities for stakeholder engagement.