JOB ROLE
Researcher
We are seeking a skilled and resourceful Researcher to lead feasibility studies and prepare an investor-ready proposal for the funding of our shea processing project. This is a critical foundational role, ideally suited to a graduate with relevant experience and preferably a postgraduate qualification.
The successful candidate will not only evaluate technical and commercial feasibility but will also map out preparatory activities and funding pathways that will facilitate the successful launch of the NSE.
Beyond research, we are looking for someone who will buy into the vision of Mamuci, take ownership of the planning process, and help build a compelling case for investors, development partners, and other stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
Feasibility & Technical Research
- Conduct in-depth feasibility studies for a scalable shea butter processing facility in Bole District, Ghana.
- Analyse raw material availability, supply chain dynamics, processing options (unrefined/refined), and energy/water infrastructure.
- Benchmark similar facilities in the region and identify success factors and operational risks.
Economic & Financial Assessment
- Develop investment-grade financial projections: CAPEX, OPEX, gross margins, IRR, breakeven, and sensitivity analysis.
- Gather pricing data (shea nuts, butter, refined outputs) and market intelligence for domestic and export markets.
Funding & Proposal Development
- Draft a comprehensive investor-ready proposal for funding feasibility studies, baseline assessments, and early-stage project setup.
- Identify and propose funding mechanisms: grants, concessional loans, impact investment, PPPs, or blended finance.
- Present a compelling narrative linking Mamuci’s mission, the NSE project, and broader SDG-aligned outcomes.
Strategic Stakeholder Engagement
- Map key actors and institutions relevant to project financing, shea certification, and international trade.
- Support strategic communications with development finance institutions (DFIs), donors, and potential equity partners.
Vision Alignment & Strategic Input
- Engage deeply with Mamuci’s vision and long-term strategy for the Savannah Region.
- Contribute to refining the NSE business model in line with current realities and emerging opportunities.
Qualifications & Profile
- A Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Agribusiness, Development Studies, Environmental Management, or related field.
- Postgraduate qualification (Master’s level or equivalent) is strongly preferred.
- 2–5 years’ experience in project research, feasibility analysis, business case development, or development finance.
- Strong written and verbal communication, with proven capacity to produce high-quality documents for external stakeholders.
- Advanced proficiency in Excel or equivalent for modelling and projections.
- Self-driven, detail-oriented, and capable of taking initiative with minimal supervision.
- A demonstrable interest in sustainable value chains, community enterprise, and rural industrialisation.
Desirable
- Familiarity with shea or other non-timber forest product value chains.
- Experience with investor relations, donor funding applications, or proposal writing.
- Exposure to rural fieldwork or agro-industrial projects in West Africa.
What We Offer
- A rare opportunity to co-create a flagship rural industrialisation project from the ground up.
- A values-driven and visionary working environment with real impact potential.
- Scope for growth into senior operational or strategy roles within Mamuci.
- Competitive remuneration package, including performance-linked incentives.
to apply
Please send your CV and a cover letter expressing how your skills, values, and experience align with this role and with Mamuci’s broader vision.