Senior Technical Advisor: SMME Development and Support – Output 2

About the Role

GIZ is seeking a Senior Technical Advisor: SMME Development and Support – Output 2 for the Career Path Development for Employment (CPD4E) project.

The CPD4E project supports young people in South Africa to access employment and income-generation opportunities in sectors linked to a sustainable and just transition towards a green economy.

This role focuses on the demand side of employment creation, with a strong emphasis on SMME development, private sector cooperation, green economy opportunities and pathways that connect skills development to practical job creation.

You will work with public and private sector partners, business networks, implementation partners and other stakeholders to design and deliver interventions that support enterprise growth, employment promotion and Just Energy Transition opportunities.

What We Are Looking For

This role requires:

• A graduate university qualification in Economics, Business, Education, Engineering with a focus on sustainable energy, or a similar relevant field
• At least 10 years’ relevant working experience
• Strong knowledge of the South African private sector
• Experience working in partnerships with public and private sector stakeholders
• Experience conceptualising and managing partner- and results-oriented consulting assignments
• Familiarity with skills requirements and growth areas in the South African economy
• Knowledge of relevant national policies, including economic, energy and local government policy
• Strong knowledge of gender issues, gender-transformative requirements and related methods
• Experience engaging in multi-stakeholder processes, especially those involving public-private collaboration in the skills development sector
• Strong networking skills and social media experience
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to turn complex deliverables into clear, realistic plans
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team in a structured, methodical manner.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with fluency in English

The following will be advantageous:

• Exposure to the energy value chain
• Knowledge of contracts and tender processes in the public and private sector
• Experience in international development cooperation

What You Will Lead

You will lead the planning and implementation of Output 2 of the CPD4E project, with a focus on SMME development, employment promotion and private sector cooperation in the context of the Just Energy Transition.

Your work will include:

• Designing and steering interventions that support SMMEs, entrepreneurs and employment-oriented private sector development.
• Strengthening cooperation with South African and German private sector partners, including chambers, associations and business networks.
• Advising partners on employment promotion, enterprise development and green economy opportunities.
• Managing partnerships, contractors, consultants and funding recipients to ensure quality delivery and compliance with technical and commercial standards.
• Supporting cooperation between TVET institutions, local business development organisations and the private sector.
• Developing approaches that help small and micro-enterprise owners strengthen business planning, access market opportunities and connect to supply chains and industry networks.
• Supporting the scaling of existing work approaches and the development of new support programmes.

Monitoring progress against Output 2 indicators and contributing to impact-oriented reporting and knowledge management.

• Representing the CPD4E project in relevant platforms, meetings and events nationally and internationally.
• Contributing to financial planning, reporting and implementation in line with GIZ standards, rules and procedures.

Working with GIZ

• The position will be based at the GIZ Offices in Hatfield, Pretoria.
• The contract period for this position is until 31 August 2028.
• At GIZ, you will be part of a global network and an environment characterised by diversity, respect and equal opportunity. GIZ is a signatory of the Diversity Charter and values recognition, appreciation and inclusion across all forms of diversity.
• Applications from people with disabilities are most welcome.

How to Apply

Please submit the following:

• A cover letter / motivation letter, maximum 1 page, clearly explaining why you are suited to the role and the value you will bring to the work of the Career Path Development for Employment project
• A detailed CV, maximum 4 pages, indicating your nationality
• Proof of eligibility to work in South Africa, such as a copy of your South African ID
• Closing date for applications: 17 July 2026
• Applications without a motivation letter will not be considered
• Only shortlisted applicants who meet the requirements will be contacted