Business and Trade Policy Lead, Laos Trade Integration and Competitiveness At ACDI/VOCA

ACDI/VOCA is a global development design and delivery partner that has implemented effective economic and social development projects in nearly 150 countries since 1963. We empower people to make positive changes in their lives by applying our expertise in sustainable agriculture, resilience, economic opportunity, access to finance, and equity & inclusion to create meaningful, lasting impact. ACDI/VOCA and its affiliates design and implement donor-funded projects, facilitate impact investing, deliver financial services, and partner with businesses to promote inclusive practices and build sustainable supply chains. In 2024, ACDI/VOCA was named a Top Workplace by the Washington Post and received 2024 Top Workplaces Culture Excellence recognition for its innovation, work-life flexibility, compensation & benefits, leadership, and purpose & values.

Business and Trade Policy Lead, Laos Trade Integration and Competitiveness

ACDI/VOCA is seeking a Business and Trade Policy Lead for an upcoming Trade Integration and Competitiveness Activity in Laos funded by USAID. The anticipated program will aim to diversify economic growth in Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR) by stimulating trade and investment, strengthening private sector competitiveness, and facilitating regional integration.

The Business and Trade Policy Lead will drive the development and implementation of trade and business-enabling policies to promote economic growth and competitiveness. This role will focus on designing strategies tailored to the needs of new and existing firms in targeted value chains, fostering a more supportive and conducive environment for business expansion and investment. The program is anticipated to start in 2025, and this position will be based in Vientiane, Laos.

Responsibilities

• Build the capacity of government officials and private actors in trade facilitation including policy development, implementation, and trade negotiations
• Undertake comprehensive policy analysis and provide actionable recommendations to improve trade regulations and practices in response to private sector needs
• Facilitate and oversee policy research and support the Lao PDR implement regulations linked to trade policies
• Monitor and evaluate the impact of trade policies, delivering regular reports to project management
• Support the Lao PDR roll out awareness of simplified business registration at the provincial and district levels
• Support activities with the Lao PDR, Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI), business association & groups to share with their members information on the range of trade portals and their use
• Collaborate with Lao PDR ministries, private sector stakeholders, and international organizations to prioritize and advocate for key trade policy changes
• Identify resources and support mechanisms needed to help government agencies implement their MSME growth strategies
• Ensure compliance with all relevant trade agreements and regulations, supporting a more competitive and transparent business environment

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Economics, International Trade, Public Policy, or relevant field is required; master’s degree is desired.
• Minimum 7 years of progressively responsible experience in trade policy, economic development, or related field.
• Experience in ASEAN trade policy work desired.
• Experience identifying research priorities, developing SOW, conducting policy research, and disseminating findings.
• Extensive knowledge of trade facilitation tools available for Laos main exports.
• Experience developing and supporting opportunities and mechanisms for public/private dialogue.
• Knowledge of business registration processes and trade portals available for businesses to engage with.
• Good verbal and written communication skills in Lao and English required.

Lao nationals are strongly encouraged to apply.