Businesses
Are you an entrepreneur with a great idea but not sure how to make it happen? Do you already have a successful business but could do with some strategic advice?
Maybe you are part of an organisation trying to bring key business leaders together to make your sector work better.
Whoever you are, if you’re interested in working with us, drop us a line at [email protected].
If you are an Australia or New Zealand-based (ANZ) business looking to expand into an MDF partner country, or if you are based in an MDF partner country and are seeking to strategically engage with ANZ businesses, our Australian Business Engagement Unit would like to hear from you.
MDF’s Australian Business Engagement Unit focuses on:
• Identifying partnership opportunities with ANZ businesses trading with the Pacific region – in particular, Samoa, Tonga and Vanuatu
• Engaging with ANZ businesses interested in trading with MDF’s partner countries across key sectors including high-value agriculture, agritech, tourism, seafood processing and outsourcing services.
If you are interested in working with us, drop us a line at [email protected]
Opportunities
MDF is committed to offering all of its staff an invigorating work environment.
If you’re looking for a new challenge and are as enthusiastic about reducing poverty and empowering disadvantaged women and men as we are, then take a look at our list of vacancies below.
If you have a question about a position you've applied for or simply want to know more, drop us a line at
[email protected]
"I’m continuously exposed to new experiences and opportunities for learning, with such a variety of people! It’s unlike any other place I’ve worked."
Cate, Program Officer
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Current vacancies
Australia
Fiji
Sri Lanka
Timor-Leste
Papua New Guinea
Pacific Regional
Expressions of Interest – Panel – Senior Consultants – Market Systems Development Insights
- • Short term, big impact opportunity for senior, strategic contribution to capture and communicate MDF’s market insights
- • Multiple task-based assignments available from 2 to 30+ days input
- • Home-based, open to international applicants
Australia’s Market Development Facility (MDF) is seeking highly experienced Market Systems Development (MSD) professionals with exceptional writing and analytical skills, to join a specialist consultant panel. This panel will shape how MDF’s learning, evidence and market insights are communicated to senior decision‑makers across government, private sector, investment and the international development community. Consultants must be able to identify and author credible and transferable learning products.
About the Market Development Facility (MDF)
MDF helps countries in the Indo-Pacific region to grow through improved productivity, economic diversification, competitiveness and trade. MDF helps business partners and government to identify markets that have high potential to grow, be profitable, and deliver social and environmental value.
Our aim is to do good by supporting good business. MDF supports business investment and innovation that reduces poverty, economically empowers women and combats climate change. We currently operate in Fiji, Timor-Leste, Samoa, Vanuatu, Tonga and Sri Lanka. MDF is funded by the Australian Government and is implemented by Palladium, in partnership with Swiss contact.
Scope of Services
As a senior consultant on this panel, you will:
- • Work directly with the Team Leader, MDF country teams and senior technical staff to author and shape high‑level learning products
- • Synthesize complex MSD interventions, evidence and results into clear insights and defensible lessons
- • Articulate what worked, what didn’t, and why – moving beyond success narratives to system‑level learning
- • Frame findings for senior donor, government, investor and private sector audiences
- • Contribute across multiple sectors and market systems, including agriculture and agribusiness, tourism, financial services, renewable energy, transport, shipping and logistics, professional services and adjacent sectors.
Outputs may include synthesis reports, learning papers, insight briefs, case studies or other thought‑leadership products.
Essential Selection Criteria
- • Exceptional writing and editorial capability
A proven ability to produce sharp, authoritative, publication‑ready outputs that speak to senior technical and non‑technical audiences alike. - • Deep experience in Market Systems Development
Demonstrated senior‑level experience in MSD or comparable private sector development programs in low‑income or emerging economies. - • Advanced analytical and synthesis skills
Ability to interrogate evidence, challenge assumptions and extract robust system‑level lessons from complex programmes. - • Strategic framing and policy relevance
Strong capacity to position insights in ways that are relevant to donor priorities, government reform agendas and private sector incentives.
Highly Desirable
- • Strong understanding of inclusive MSD, including GEDSI integration
- • Experience writing for DFAT or similar donor audiences
- • Experience in the Indo‑Pacific region
- • Background in policy writing, economics, business journalism or thought leadership.
Personal Attributes
- • Intellectual rigour – comfortable challenging assumptions and identifying credible lessons
- • Precision, clarity and attention to detail
- • Able to engage constructively with technical and research teams and extract relevant insights.
- • Comfortable operating with minimal direction, managing competing inputs and delivering under tight timelines.
How to Apply
Applications should be submitted online via Palladium – JobList and include:
- • CV and response to the selection criteria
- • A portfolio of writing samples (links to publicly accessible work strongly preferred)
- • Proposed AUD daily rate (refer to ARF STA rates for guidance).
- • Applications will be assessed on a rolling basis.
RFQ-FJ26-032_Business Financial Consultant
1. About Market Development Facility
The Market Development Facility (MDF) is a multi-country Australian Government funded initiative, with locations in Fiji, Sri Lanka, Timor-Leste, Samoa, Tonga, and Vanuatu. MDF aims to stimulate economic growth – and hence employment and income earning opportunities for the poor and underprivileged – by making selected sectors of the economy more competitive and stimulating business innovation. MDF is implemented by Palladium Group and Swisscontact and started operations in Fiji in July 2011.
2. The Requirements
2.1 Background
Energy Monkey Investment (Fiji) Pte Limited [EMI] is a locally owned solar company that provides sustainable and renewable energy solutions across Fiji and the Pacific region. EMI’s residential and commercial clients are often sourced/acquired through existing networks, tenders and other solar companies looking to outsource installation services. EMI is partnering with a Fijian owned financial institution is looking to develop a solar financial product for household and electric vehicle customers. Part of the initiative involves the inclusion of EMI as the preferred solar product and service installation provider. MDF seeks to support EMI’s financial management capabilities to ensure they are investment ready and able to support the expected increase in demand through the collaboration with the financial service provider. The objective of this assignment is to review EMI’s existing financial systems and reporting structures and provide actionable recommendations to strengthen cashflow and working capital management, formalise costing and provide financial advisory services as mutually agreed with EMI.
2.2 Scope of services
The Consultant will work closely with MDF and EMI to deliver the following:
- i. Workplan Development
- • Develop a detailed workplan outlining methodology, timelines, milestones and deliverables.
- ii. Review EMI’s Existing Financial Processes by
- • Review current financial processes, tools, workflows, and reporting.
- • Assess cashflow management, working capital, and liquidity controls.
- • Identify gaps, inefficiencies, and compliance issues.
- • Evaluate reporting formats, cycles, and responsibilities.
- iii. Submit a Review Report with practical / actionable recommendations that includes but is not limited to:
- • a summary of key findings from the review.
- • clear, actionable recommendations to improve EMI’s financial systems, reporting, cashflow, and controls.
- • actionable steps and priorities for implementation.
- iv. Advisory Support / Coaching that includes but is not limited to:
- • hands-on guidance to implement recommended improvements.
- • at least 10-hours one-on-one coaching to EMI on financial analysis, budgeting, and cashflow monitoring.
- • training and upskilling of relevant staff on enterprise resource planning (ERP) processes and reporting.
- • support risk management and periodic performance improvements.
- v. Final Report
- • Deliver Final Report providing an overview of the work carried out with recommendations and present the same back to MDF and EMI.
2.3 Required deliverables / outputs
The consultant will deliver the following outputs:
- • Detailed workplan
- • Draft review report with actionable recommendations
- • Final report & financial reporting templates
- • Advisory / coaching support
3. Mandatory Requirements
Interested applicants must meet the following mandatory requirements to be able to participate in this procurement process:
- • Proven experience working with MSMEs, including financial coaching, business advisory services, and capacity-building support.
- • Strong understanding of the local business environment, regulatory context, and compliance obligations relevant to MSMEs.
- • Demonstrated proficiency with accounting systems and software, including experience in setting up and configuring ERP or integrated financial management systems.
- • Excellent analytical and report writing capabilities, with a track record of preparing practical, actionable, and implementable recommendations.
Submissions that do not meet these requirements will be considered non-compliant and disqualified from the procurement process.
4. Evaluation of submissions
MDF will assess submissions in line with the technical and financial evaluation process described below. In assessing submissions, MDF, at its sole discretion, may consider information from other relevant sources.
4.1 Technical evaluation
MDF will first score compliant submissions against the following technical criteria:
- A. Relevant past experience demonstrating capability to deliver services relevant to MDF’s requirements (35% of the Technical Score)
- B. Approach to delivering MDF’s requirements (35% of the Technical Score).
- C. Qualifications and experience of proposed personnel (30% of the Technical Score)
The technical score will account for 80% of the Total Score.
4.2 Financial evaluation
Following the assessment of the technical response, MDF will undertake a like-for-like price comparison of all technically suitable offers. The Financial Score will account for 20% of the Total Score. The lowest-priced financial offer will be awarded the full weighted score. The weighted score of other financial offers will be calculated as a fraction of the higher scoring offer.
5. Contracting details
If your offer is successful, you will be required to enter into the Company’s standard contract for the types of goods or services being provided (see Annex A). In the provision of the Goods and Services, you will be required to comply with the Company’s policies, including (without limitation) its Business Partner Code of Conduct and any relevant Project Manual. Potential suppliers must also comply with the Company’s Business Partner Code of Conduct in the submission of any quotes pursuant to this RFQ.
If you are bidding as part of a joint venture, partnership or similar, please make this clear in your submission. Likewise, if you propose to subcontract any part of the goods or services provision, then disclose this fact within your submission. The Company may require additional information from you and approval for subcontracting will not be automatic as subcontractors will be subject to Palladium’s Due Diligence process.
Registration of Interest
Register your interest to submit an offer by sending your name, organisation and contact details to the Contact Person by email on or before Friday, 1st May 2026, 5:00pm Fiji Time.
Last date for Queries
Send queries to the Contact Person by email on or before Tuesday, 12th May 2026, 5:00pm Fiji Time. Quote the RFQ Title in the subject line.
Closing Date and Time – Friday, 22nd May 2026, 5pm Fiji Time
Contact Person – Peni Rokotakala, [email protected]
Details for Submission
Email your completed Response Form to the Contact Person on or before the Closing Date and Time. Quote the RFQ Title in the subject line.
Click on “Apply” button below to download the Service Provider Response Forms Part A and B, and submission instructions.
Note: Once the ZIP Folder has been downloaded, please extract the Response Forms A and B, with the submission instructions before proceeding.
Important Note: If you are viewing this via a mobile device, please open this page via an external internet browser (Safari, Samsung Internet Browser, Google Chrome, Firefox) to download the Response Forms.
Addendum 1
Please find responses to tender queries here: Addendum 1
Addendum 2
Please find responses to tender queries here: Addendum 2
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RFQ-FJ26-030_ Technical Consultant – Childcare Facility & Operational Guidelines Assessment
1. About Market Development Facility
The Market Development Facility (MDF) is a multi-country Australian Government funded initiative, with locations in Fiji, Sri Lanka, Timor-Leste, Samoa, Tonga, and Vanuatu. MDF aims to stimulate economic growth – and hence employment and income earning opportunities for the poor and underprivileged – by making selected sectors of the economy more competitive and stimulating business innovation. MDF is implemented by Palladium Group and Swisscontact and started operations in Fiji in July 2011.
2. The Requirements
2.1 Background
Fiji’s Outsourcing Services (OS) sector employs over 8,000 people, two-thirds of whom are women. While the sector provides strong employment opportunities for Fiji, staff retention, attendance and productivity has become a growing challenge due to inadequate childcare services. A 2019 International Finance Corporation (IFC) report estimated that employers in Fiji lose up to 12.7 workdays per employee annually due to childcare responsibilities.
MDF has partnered with Packleader Pacific Ltd (PPL) to help pilot an in-house after school facility on their premises in Laucala Beach Estate, Nasinu to address the growing challenges faced by their staff for afterschool childcare support.
PPL, part of the Packleader Group has been operating in Fiji since 2013 offering customer service, relationship management, web hosting, debt collection, and financial reporting to clients in energy, health insurance, telecommunications, property maintenance, and business processing. Their work across key industries such as energy, health, insurance, banking, telecommunications, and chartered accounting reflects a strong alignment with the needs of working families.
MDF and PPL are seeking to engage a suitable Technical Consultant (‘Consultant’) on a short-term basis to assess the facility and operational guidelines for childcare services, and to provide practical recommendations aligned with Australian childcare standards and Fiji’s local compliance requirements.
The objective of this assignment is to assess the Packleader facility and dedicated childcare space of approximately 22 square metres and review the operational guidelines for childcare services on the premises. The assessment will integrate findings from an internal demand survey for childcare services and provide strategic and practical recommendations for implementation.
2.2 Scope of Services
The Consultant will work closely with MDF and Packleader to deliver the following:
- i. Workplan Development
- • Develop a detailed workplan outlining timelines, research methodology, stakeholders to consult, and deliverables.
- ii. Facility Assessments & Operational Audit
- • Consult with appropriate stakeholders on statutory and regulatory requirements for development and operation of an on-site after school care facility.
- • Review existing operational guidelines (policies, SOPs, staffing, safety, hygiene etc.) against Australian childcare standards and Fiji’s local compliance requirements
- iii. Demand Survey Integration
- • Analyse demand survey findings (capacity gaps, parent preferences, affordability constraints, hours of operation, inclusion needs) and link to facility assessment results.
- iv. Gap analysis
- • Provide a matrixed gap analysis and recommend short-, medium-, and long-term actions, that include but are not limited to:
- a. Upgrades to Policy and/or standard operating procedures (SOP) relating to child-safety policies, staff hiring, incident reporting, and security procedures where applicable. This should align with Australian childcare standards and adapted for Fiji context
- b. Facility modifications (space per child, safety/egress, sanitation)
- c. Staffing & training (ratios/quals per National Quality Standard intent and Fiji expectations).
- d. Governance & leadership (quality improvement plans; internal audits; parental engagement).
- e. Digital safety protocols (image consent, storage/destruction, CCTV governance)
- • Provide a matrixed gap analysis and recommend short-, medium-, and long-term actions, that include but are not limited to:
- v. Final report
- • Deliver Final Report (executive summary, method, findings, gap analysis, recommendations, tools annexes) and present findings to MDF and Packleader
2.3 Required deliverables / outputs
The consultant will deliver the following outputs:
- 1. Approved work plan – methodology, timeline, consultations, and resources
- 2. Assessment report – assessment of facility and operational guidelines
- 3. Final report – gap analysis and recommendations
- 4. Presentation of findings – presentation slide deck of final report
3. Mandatory Requirements
Interested providers must meet the following mandatory requirements to be able to participate in this procurement process:
- • Experience in facility assessments, compliance reviews, or operational audits in social services, education, or community infrastructure.
- • Understanding of Fiji’s early childhood policies, regulatory requirements for childcare facilities, and local operational expectations.
- • Familiarity with Australian childcare standards in core quality areas such as children’s health and safety and operational governance
- • Strong analytical and reporting skills, with demonstrated ability to prepare practical, implementable recommendations
Submissions that do not meet these requirements will be considered non-compliant and disqualified from the procurement process.
This engagement is intended for locally based consultants. Therefore, costs related to in-country visits will not be covered under this assignment.
4. Evaluation of submissions
MDF will assess submissions in line with the technical and financial evaluation process described below. In assessing submissions, MDF, at its sole discretion, may consider information from other relevant sources.
4.1 Technical evaluation
MDF will first score compliant submissions against the following technical criteria:
- A. Relevant past experience demonstrating capability to deliver requirements as described in this RFQ (35% of the Technical Score).
- B. Approach to delivery of requirements as described in this RFQ (35% of the Technical Score).
- C. Qualifications and experience of proposed personnel (30% of the Technical Score)
The technical score will account for 80% of the Total Score.
4.2 Financial evaluation
Following the assessment of the technical response, MDF will undertake a like-for-like price comparison of all technically suitable offers. The Financial Score will account for 20% of the Total Score. The lowest-priced financial offer will be awarded the full weighted score. The weighted score of other financial offers will be calculated as a fraction of the higher scoring offer.
5. Contracting details
If your offer is successful, you will be required to enter into the Company’s standard contract for the types of goods or services being provided (see Annex A). In the provision of the Goods and Services, you will be required to comply with the Company’s policies, including (without limitation) its Business Partner Code of Conduct and any relevant Project Manual. Potential suppliers must also comply with the Company’s Business Partner Code of Conduct in the submission of any quotes pursuant to this RFQ.
If you are bidding as part of a joint venture, partnership or similar, please make this clear in your submission. Likewise, if you propose to subcontract any part of the goods or services provision, then disclose this fact within your submission. The Company may require additional information from you and approval for subcontracting will not be automatic as subcontractors will be subject to Palladium’s Due Diligence process.
Registration of Interest
Register your interest to submit an offer by sending your name, organisation and contact details to the Contact Person by email on or before Wednesday, 28th April 2026, 5:00pm Fiji Time.
Last date for Queries
Send queries to the Contact Person by email on or before Wednesday, 28th April 2026, 5:00pm Fiji Time. Quote the RFQ Title in the subject line.
Closing Date and Time – Wednesday, 6th May 2026, 5.00pm Fiji Time
Contact Person – Anushma Sharma, [email protected]
Details for Submission
Email your completed Response Forms to the Contact Person on or before the Closing Date and Time. Quote the RFQ Title in the subject line.
Click on “Apply” button below to download the Service Provider Response Forms Part A and B, and submission instructions.
Note: Once the ZIP Folder has been downloaded, please extract the Response Forms A and B, with the submission instructions before proceeding.
Important Note: If you are viewing this via a mobile device, please open this page via an external internet browser (Safari, Samsung Internet Browser, Google Chrome, Firefox) to download the Response Forms.
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Communications Intern, Market Development Facility-Timor Leste
- • Internship opportunities for three months.
- • In Timor-Leste, interns will support MDF’s efforts to promote economic development, particularly through fieldwork in the agriculture sector.
- • MDF Internships offer a chance to learn on-the-job skills while also contributing to actual projects. Interns receive a monthly stipend.
About MDF
The Market Development Facility (MDF) is a multi-country initiative which promotes sustainable economic development, through higher incomes for women and men, in our partner countries across the Indo-Pacific.
We support partners from business and government to identify and grow commercial opportunities that are profitable, scalable and deliver social and of environmental value.
MDF is funded by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs (DFAT) and co-funded by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) in Samoa, Tonga and Vanuatu. It is implemented by Palladium in partnership with Swisscontact.
About the Opportunity
The Communication Intern supports MDF’s communication activities, partnership implementation and media engagement.
Required Criteria
- 1. Current final-year students pursuing a degree in Communication, Media Studies, or a related field, or recent graduates who have completed their degree in the last two years.
- 2. Candidates must not have prior job experience in a professional setting.
- 3. A minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 is required.
- 4. Familiar with digital and content marketing.
- 5. Good skills in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel and PowerPoint). Skills in Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Premier Pro and Canva will be an added advantage.
- 6. Excellent written and spoken Tetun and English language skills.
- 7. Willingness to travel regularly and extensively within Timor-Leste.
Desirable Criteria
- 1. Knowledgeable with both conventional and contemporary media work.
- 2. Skills in Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Premier Pro and Canva will be an added advantage.
Closing date: 07 March 2026.
This position is open to Timor nationals only or people who have rights to work in Timor-Leste.
How to Apply
Apply online by clicking on “Apply now” below. Ensure including your CV and brief cover letter, outlining your suitability in line with the requirements of the position.
Business Adviser, Market Development Facility (MDF)-Timor-Leste
- • Multiple positions available to contribute to the economic growth of Timor-Leste
- • Excellent opportunity to analyse economic opportunities and develop innovative solutions with businesses and other organisations
- • Based in Dili, Timor Leste, 1-Year fixed term contract (with possibility of ongoing extension)
About the Market Development Facility
Australia’s Market Development Facility (MDF) helps countries in the Indo-Pacific region to grow through improved productivity, economic diversification, competitiveness and trade.
MDF helps government and business partners to identify markets that have high potential to grow, be profitable, and deliver social and environmental value.
Our aim is to do good by supporting good business. MDF supports business investment and innovation that reduces poverty, economically empowers women and combats climate change. MDF currently operates in Fiji, Timor-Leste, Samoa, Vanuatu, Tonga and Sri Lanka.
MDF is funded by the Australian Government. It is implemented by Palladium, in partnership with Swisscontact.
This Opportunity
The Business Adviser analyses economic opportunities and constraints to growth and develops innovative solutions with businesses and other organisations. The economic sectors in which you will work may change over time but are likely to include agriculture, tourism and/or renewable energy.
This role offers diversity of tasks, particularly in analysing markets and economy sectors, and identifying innovative solutions to unlock markets, to help individuals, suppliers, businesses, and the Timor-Leste economy. This is a unique opportunity to be part of a dynamic and dedicated team working to build a stronger, more resilient, and equitable Timor-Leste.
Business Adviser will be responsible for:
- • Meeting with a wide variety of public and private stakeholders, especially private businesses, traders, farmers, and government officials to understand how the economy, sectors, markets and businesses function in Timor-Leste. This will involve regular travel and fieldwork across the country.
- • With the support of colleagues and management, conducting socioeconomic analysis, including assessing the business environment, poverty, gender, industry competitiveness, as well as the roles of businesses, traders and farmers. This will include identifying constraints to, and opportunities to promote economic growth.
- • Assisting with the creation of strategies that will allow MDF to address the constraints identified and achieve MDF’s pro-poor economic development objectives.
- • Designing innovative activities in line with MDF’s strategies. This will include working with a wide mix of organisations, devising new business models, negotiating with prospective partners, and drafting concept notes and contracts.
- • Developing strong working relationships with program partners and other external stakeholders, from government, the private sector and non-government organisations.
We are seeking an individual who will bring:
- • Positive attitude, an inquisitive mind and capacity and willingness to engage effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders.
- • Excellent critical analysis, synthesis, and English language skills (written and verbal), combined with the ability to translate complex findings and ideas into simple, clear and actionable content.
- • Willingness to travel extensively within country.
- • Creative skills and conceptual problem-solving abilities contributing to new and innovative ideas.
- • Familiarity with issues affecting the local economy, business environment and international trends in business (highly desirable).
- • The ability to work well either individually or as part of a team to meet tight deadlines.
Desirable skills and experience
- • Excellent written and spoken Tetun language skills.
- • A post graduate degree or qualification in a related discipline.
- • Work experience relevant to tourism or agriculture sector/s.
The position is perfect for someone with preferably a Tourism or Agricultural background, looking to apply their investigative skills and gain hands-on experience in economic development in a thriving and supportive workplace.
Join us and be a part of a team that’s making a real difference in economic development across MDF’s diverse and dynamic portfolio!
How to Apply
Please click “Apply now” button below & submit your application online, including your CV and brief cover letter, outlining your suitability in line with the requirements of the position.
Closing date: Midnight 3rd December, 2025 (Dili time)
This position is open to residents with authority to live and work in Timor-Leste. Rates of pay are based on local labour standards.
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Communications Specialist – Market Development Facility (MDF), Timor-Leste
- • Lead and manage communication services and media engagement, to showcase MDF’s approach and market interventions in Timor-Leste
- • Based in Dili, Timor Leste, 1-Year fixed term contract (with possibility of ongoing extension)
- • Flexible work arrangements available
About the Market Development Facility
Australia’s Market Development Facility (MDF) helps countries in the Indo-Pacific region to grow through improved productivity, economic diversification, competitiveness and trade.
MDF helps business partners and government to identify markets that have high potential to grow, be profitable, and deliver social and environmental value.
Our aim is to do good by supporting good business. MDF supports business investment and innovation that reduces poverty, economically empowers women and combats climate change. We currently operate in Fiji, Timor-Leste, Samoa, Vanuatu, Tonga and Sri Lanka.
MDF is funded by the Australian Government and co-funded by the New Zealand Government in Samoa, Tonga and Vanuatu. It is implemented by Palladium, in partnership with Swisscontact.
This Opportunity
We are seeking a Communications Specialist to work with a creative global Communications team, to lead and manage communication services and media engagement, to showcase MDF’s approach and market interventions in Timor-Leste. Reporting to the Country Director and working closely with the MDF Communications Director, you will use your knowledge and expertise to develop strategic communication plans and manage multi-media content to identify and pursue positive storytelling opportunities for MDF. This will include high-quality content creation, engaging social media, stakeholder management and events coordination.
This key role will also assist the Country Director with key stakeholder engagement and MDF partnerships, including support to improve the effectiveness of market interventions that may have communications elements.
You will be curious and a great collaborator, willing to tackle all parts of the communications discipline and be able to juggle multiple exciting projects at any given time. As someone who is passionate about what you do, you will foster meaningful relationships with key internal and external stakeholders, provide ideas and new ways of thinking and proactively identify good news opportunities.
The Communications Specialist will be responsible for the following:
Communications Strategy & Workplan
- • Under the guidance of the Communications Director and Country Director, lead the implementation of MDF’s Communications Strategy in-country and collaborate with other members of the Country Team for effective country communications.
- • Lead the creative and strategic management of MDF’s social media platforms on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn. Ensure all platforms are relevant, up to date, and in line with the overall Facility Social Media Strategy
- • Under the guidance of the Country Director, direct and manage the country communications budget, provide regular updates and ensure activities are on track.
Content Development & Campaigns
- • Generate high-quality, consistent content for all relevant MDF communications formats including engagement, influencing and learning events, the website, and other platforms. Support Facility-wide communication efforts as and when required.
- • Work closely with the Country Team to identify and capture relevant content and stories to be produced; analyse results, make these insightful and accessible to a variety of audiences, and suggest ways to improve the Facility’s effectiveness and visibility.
- • Drive the delivery of communications campaigns to influence behaviour change and/or showcase MDF initiatives and interventions in Timor-Leste.
- • Lead or provide advice on communications aspects of interventions in agriculture and tourism.
- • Ensure that all MDF communications products are in line with relevant DFAT guidelines.
- • Lead the production of visual media products, with the support of MDF’s external design and video resources: photos, videos, photo essays, infographics, etc.
Events Management & Coordination
- • Organise events and visits and generate media coverage.
- • Travel for field stories, high-level visit coverage and other requirements.
- • Together with the Communications Director, recruit and manage the contracts of Short-Term Technical Experts and lists of retained Technical Specialists/Service Providers (such as photographers, videographers, editors, writers and event managers).
- • Working with the Country Director and Country Team, lead media engagement; this will include liaising with the media for event coverage, writing press releases, and exploring the media landscape for new engagement opportunities.
Reporting
- • Contribute to monitoring the impact of communications initiatives and record results.
- • Support delivery of reporting requirements and other relevant activities as directed by Country Director, Communications Director, Team Leader or other representatives of Palladium.
Essential criteria:
- • A bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline: journalism, communications, marketing or social sciences.
- • Experience in creating and delivering successful communications plans including ability to quickly write and edit high-quality, engaging content and products.
- • Highly adept in the creative use of social media, including engagement analytics.
- • Strong working knowledge of MS Office programs.
- • Experience with website back-end work.
- • Demonstrated ability to organise high-quality events.
- • High-level planning, multi-tasking and time management skills.
- • Excellent command of both verbal and written English.
Desirable criteria:
- • Experience with photography, producing video and other multimedia products.
- • Capability with Tetum and other Timorese languages.
- • Skills is other relevant software, particularly photo/video editing and graphic design.
This position is open to Timor Leste nationals and permanent residents with authority to live and work in Timor Leste. Rates of pay are based on local labour standards.
MDF is committed to creating a diverse and creative workforce. We encourage women, people with disabilities, and people from other diverse backgrounds to apply.
Join us and be a part of a team that’s making a real difference in economic development across MDF’s diverse and dynamic portfolio!
How to Apply
Please submit your application online including a cover letter and CV, addressing how you meet the requirements of this role.
Applications close at midnight, 03 November 2025 (Timor Leste time)
This position is open to residents with authority to live and work in Timor Leste. Rates of pay are based on local labour standards.
Communications Intern, Market Development Facility-Sri Lanka
- • Based in Colombo, Sri Lanka on a 6-month contract (part time, 3 days per week)
- • Gain practical experience in content creation, storytelling, and social media management for a respected development program.
- • Work in a diverse, multicultural team that values creativity, collaboration, and fresh ideas.
- • Interns receive a monthly stipend.
About the Market Development Facility
Australia’s Market Development Facility (MDF) helps countries in the Indo-Pacific region to grow through improved productivity, economic diversification, competitiveness and trade. MDF helps business partners and government to identify markets that have high potential to grow, be profitable, and deliver social and environmental value. We currently operate in Fiji,
Timor-Leste, Samoa, Vanuatu, Tonga and Sri Lanka.
MDF utilises a Market Systems Development (MSD) approach, whereby we connect individuals, businesses, governments and NGOs with each other. This enhances investment and coordination and allows partnerships to flourish, strengthening inclusive economic
growth. MDF is funded by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs (DFAT). It is implemented by Palladium in partnership with Swisscontact.
Our aim is to do good by supporting good business. MDF supports business investment and innovation that reduces poverty, economically empowers women and combats climate change. In Sri Lanka, MDF works in a broad range of sectors and markets, including agriculture and tourism, and hone a variety of skills in a dynamic environment. MDF partners to adopt the best possible solutions to improve markets, thereby creating lasting change for poor men and women in our partner countries. Many of MDF’s interventions involve working directly with the private sector, as well as government and non-government organisations.
This Opportunity
The intern will work closely with the MDF Sri Lanka team and the Communications Specialist to support visibility and outreach efforts through drafting communication materials, coordinating with internal teams, and assisting with events and engagement activities. This internship offers hands-on learning, mentorship, and collaboration across technical, M&E, and operations teams, with a monthly stipend provided.
The intern will be responsible for:
- • Assist the Communications Specialist with developing communication materials and content creation.
- • Support content creation for social media, media releases, and other communication products for MDF Sri Lanka.
- • Co-lead communication field visits alongside the Communications Specialist.
- • Coordinate with partners and external designers/video teams to produce photos, videos, infographics, and other visual content.
- • Help the Communications Specialist and technical teams with event coordination.
- • Support video production, including liaising with external video producers for planning and shoots.
- • Assist with media engagement activities as required.
- • Provide additional support to the Communications Specialist, Communications Director, and Country Director as needed.
We are seeking an individual who will bring:
- • Bachelor’s degree in communications, Business, or a related field (Added advantage)
- • Strong photography skills, with the ability to capture high‑quality, visually engaging images for communication use.
- • Excellent written and spoken English, plus conversational proficiency in Sinhala or Tamil.
- • Creative social media content creator, comfortable producing content for major platforms.
- • Highly organised, with strong planning and coordination abilities.
- • Able to work to deadlines, manage multiple tasks, and collaborate effectively with others to achieve shared goals.
- • Willing and eager to travel extensively across the country for field visits and communication assignments.
Join us and be a part of a team that’s making a real difference in economic development across MDF’s diverse and dynamic portfolio!
How to Apply
Please click “Apply now” button below & submit your application online, including your CV and brief cover letter, outlining your suitability in line with the requirements of the position.
Closing date: Midnight 30th January, 2026 (Colombo Time)
This position is open to Sri Lankan nationals and permanent residents with authority to live and work in Sri Lanka.
ApplyBusiness Adviser, Market Development Facility (MDF)-Sri Lanka
- • Based in Colombo, Sri Lanka with a 12-month fixed term contract.
- • Travel & training opportunities within Sri Lanka and beyond.
About the Market Development Facility
Australia’s Market Development Facility (MDF) helps countries in the Indo-Pacific region to grow through improved productivity, economic diversification, competitiveness and trade. MDF helps business partners and government to identify markets that have high potential to grow, be profitable, and deliver social and environmental value.
Our aim is to do good by supporting good business. MDF supports business investment and innovation that reduces poverty, economically empowers women and combats climate change. We currently operate in Fiji, Timor-Leste, Samoa, Vanuatu, Tonga and Sri Lanka.
MDF is funded by the Australian Government. It is implemented by Palladium, in partnership with Swisscontact.
In Sri Lanka, MDF’s focus is on diversifying tourism with new products and services and supporting authentic Sri Lankan products which promote the country.
This Opportunity
In this unique role, you will interact with an array of representatives from business, civil society groups and the public sector; economists and change makers; Australian and New Zealand Government representatives; international experts; and colleagues from across the Asia Pacific. This position is ideal for mid-level professionals with a passion to build an extensive network, knowledge base and professional profile to propel their career forward.
Business Adviser will be responsible for:
- • Meeting with a wide variety of public and private stakeholders, especially businesses, government officials, and tourism value chain actors, to understand how Sri Lanka’s economy and tourism sector function. This will include travel and fieldwork across the country to co-create inclusive value chains and practical solutions for tourism businesses.
- • Conduct socioeconomic analysis, including assessing the business environment, poverty, gender, industry competitiveness, as well as the roles of businesses, traders, and farmers.
- • Assisting with the creation of strategies that will allow MDF to address the constraints identified and achieve MDF’s pro-poor economic development objectives.
- • Designing innovative activities in line with MDF’s strategies through working with a wide mix of organisations, devising new business models, negotiating with prospective partners, and drafting concept notes and contracts.
- • Working with Quality and Inclusion staff to create, monitor and update quality and inclusion documentation, including results chains, results measurement plans, field surveys, etc.
- • Integrate climate change principles of adaptation, mitigation and resilience, intervention and results measurement documents.
For full Terms of Reference (TOR), click here.
We are seeking an individual who will bring:
- • An entrepreneurial attitude, and a strong interest in working with the private sector on innovative business models.
- • Willingness to work hard and travel extensively within Sri Lanka, meeting a diverse range of stakeholders, conducting research and monitoring activities.
- • Demonstrated interpersonal skills with both colleagues and external stakeholders.
- • Familiarity with issues affecting the Sri Lankan economy, business environment and international business trends.
- • At least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline, such as economics, business, tourism, or international development, or equivalent professional experience.
- • Excellent English language skills (written and spoken). proficiency in either Sinhalese or Tamil language is also required.
Join us and be a part of a team that’s making a real difference in economic development across MDF’s diverse and dynamic portfolio!
How to Apply
Please click “Apply now” button below & submit your application online, including your CV and brief cover letter, outlining your suitability in line with the requirements of the position.
Closing date: Midnight 3rd December 2025 (Colombo time)
This position is open to residents with authority to live and work in Sri Lanka. Rates of pay are based on local labour standards.
ApplyRIMI Specialist (Research, Impact Measurement, and Inclusion), Market Development Facility-Sri Lanka
- • Based in Colombo, Sri Lanka with a 12-month fixed term contract (with possibility of ongoing extension)
- • Travel & training opportunities within Sri Lanka and beyond.
About the Market Development Facility
Australia’s Market Development Facility (MDF) helps countries in the Indo-Pacific region to grow through improved productivity, economic diversification, competitiveness and trade.
MDF helps business partners and government to identify markets that have high potential to grow, be profitable, and deliver social and environmental value.
Our aim is to do good by supporting good business. MDF supports business investment and innovation that reduces poverty, economically empowers women and combats climate change. We currently operate in Fiji, Timor-Leste, Samoa, Vanuatu, Tonga and Sri Lanka.
MDF is funded by the Australian Government and co-funded by the New Zealand Government in Samoa, Tonga and Vanuatu. It is implemented by Palladium, in partnership with Swisscontact.
In Sri Lanka, MDF’s focus is on diversifying tourism with new products and services and supporting authentic Sri Lankan products which promote the country.
This Opportunity
The Monitoring & Evaluation/Research, Impact Measurement, and Inclusion (RIMI) Specialist is responsible for monitoring and results measurement (MRM) for an assigned portfolio of investment interventions in Sri Lanka. This key position measures the results of MDF’s work to determine if we are achieving the desired objectives with tangible and credible results measurement.
The RIMI Specialist will be responsible for:
- • Review and support MRM documentation and planning.
- • Integrate data into MDF’s systems and reporting tools.
- • Contribute to reports, strategic plans, and market analysis.
- • Provide insights and recommendations for interventions.
- • Support inclusion and climate principles in program design.
- • Promote team learning and perform other assigned duties.
For full Terms of Reference (TOR), click here.
We are seeking an individual who will bring:
- • Experience and skills in qualitative and quantitative research.
- • Capabilities develop research tools and analysing complex data sets, including complex field research, and conveying findings into simple, clear and actionable findings.
- • Advanced proficiency in Excel.
- • Excellent command of the English language, both verbal and written, plus spoken proficiency in either Sinhalese or Tamil language.
- • Willingness and ability to travel regularly in Sri Lanka.
Desirable Criteria:
- • A degree in research, economics, business, international development or related fields is desirable. Familiarity with Market Systems Development or similar approaches.
- • Familiarity with the Donor Committee of Enterprise Development (DCED) Standard for Measuring Results in Private Sector Development is an advantage but not a must.
Join us and be a part of a team that’s making a real difference in economic development across MDF’s diverse and dynamic portfolio!
Closing date: Midnight 24th August, 2025 (Colombo Time)
This position is open to residents with authority to live and work in Sri Lanka. Rates of pay are based on local labour standards.
ApplyBusiness Adviser
Are you a mid-level professional with strong business acumen and a passion for making a difference? We’re looking for dynamic individuals to join our team and help drive economic growth and innovation in Sri Lanka!
The Role: As a Business Adviser, you’ll interact with a diverse range of stakeholders, including business leaders, civil society groups, government representatives, and international experts. Your role will be to bridge the gap between businesses and communities, fostering innovation and growth.
What We Offer:
Engagement: Work with large multinationals, SMEs, banks, farmer associations, and community organizations.
Impact: Conduct socioeconomic analysis, identify opportunities for economic growth, and develop strategies to promote climate resilience and social inclusion.
Networking: Build strong relationships with MDF partners and collaborators, gathering real-time business and market intelligence.
Key Skills:
- • Business acumen
- • Creativity and innovation
- • Analytical skills
- • Persuasive communication and negotiation
- • Excellent English communication (verbal and written)
Requirements:
- • Bachelor’s degree in business, economics, agriculture, or related field
- • Familiarity with local economy and international business trends
- • Positive attitude and problem-solving skills
- • Ability to work individually and as part of a team
- • Proficiency in Sinhalese or Tamil
- • Willingness to travel extensively within Sri Lanka
Why Join Us?
Thrive in a challenging environment
Engage with a wide variety of stakeholders
Contribute to pro-poor economic development
Click on “Apply now” or copy this link on your browser : https://palladium.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/2/home/requisition/23752?c=palladium and be a part of our mission to drive sustainable growth and innovation in Sri Lanka! 🌍
Applications Close: Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis until suitable candidate(s) are found.
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