Team Leader – Efficient and Inclusive Markets | APEP

Job Description

“Join our team and be able to contribute to a better business enabling environment and increasing economic diversity for more inclusive economic growth in Papua New Guinea”

• Commencement: April 2026
• Long term role, up to February 2028 (w/potential for extension)
• Based in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
• Open to All Applicants*

About the Opportunity

The Efficient & Inclusive Markets Unit Team Leader will report directly to the Director, APEP. They will lead the Efficient & Inclusive Markets team, overseeing staff performance and program delivery. They will manage the development and implementation of a portfolio of projects focused on improving access to finance, developing innovative financing instruments, improving the Business Development Services, digitising business processes and inter-agency trade coordination. These projects contribute to a better business enabling environment and
increasing economic diversity for more inclusive economic growth.

The Team Leader will ensure that projects are implemented in close collaboration with other APEP teams, especially the Foster Inclusive Agricultural Growth and Expanded Livelihoods team, and in accordance with annual work plans, milestone deliverables and international development standards, and will leverage opportunities for collaborative programming with other Australian Government assistance programs,ministries, departments and agencies and the private sector. Success in thisrole depends on close and continuous collaboration with all APEP program areas and cross-cutting technical teams. This is critical to ensure strategic alignment within programming and to maximise impact.

The role offers opportunities for regional engagement and contribution to improving the business enabling environment of PNG and secure a diversified economy, underpinned by relevant financial products and services, and a strengthened Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise ecosystem.

Key responsibilities

Technical Delivery:

• Provide strategic and technical oversight of the planning, scheduling, design, commissioning and implementation of the APEP annual work plan, Performance Assessment Framework (PAF) and associated projects. Assessment Framework (PAF) and associated projects.
• Support the Partnership to improve coordination across all partnership programs (APEP is one of them) and activities, to leverage opportunities and maximise impact.
• Contribute to quality assurance processes to ensure that Partnership initiatives meet quality standards, align with the strategic direction of the Partnership and are appropriately costed.
• Conduct a rapid analysis of existing projects and their activities to identify gaps in programming and potential opportunities for investment.
• Establish a comprehensive and cohesive portfolio of activities to improve the business enabling environment of PNG and secure a diversified economy, underpinned by relevant financial products and services, and a strengthened Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise ecosystem.

Management:

Lead an effective and high performing team by:

• o articulating a strong vision for the team and aligning their work and behaviour with that of
  the strategic priorities of APEP and Abt Global

o enforcing high standards in terms of work outcomes and behaviours

o developing individuals’ capacity through ongoing guidance, mentoring and coaching; and

o promoting team behaviours of integrity, trust and respect in accordance with company
values.

• Develop and maintain key stakeholder relationships through varied engagement and coordination efforts that target the private sector, civil society, and Government partners, including the Australian High Commission (AHC) and the Government of PNG.
• Develop and manage accurate program budgets and forecasts, ensuring deliverables can be achieved with the available resources and in compliance with DFAT Value for Money principles.
• Develop and maintain cross-functional working relationships across the Partnership, other Abt Global programs in PNG and Abt Global teams.

About You

For applications to be considered, a response to the Key Selection Criteria below must be provided.

• Tertiary qualifications in Business, Economics, International Development, Trade & Investment, Social Sciences, or related fields.
• At least 12-15 years’ project management experience, including strategic planning, technical advisory, and stakeholder management
• Proven track record in improving MSMEs’ access to finance, business environment, inclusive economic participation, trade facilitation, and economic diversification.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and experience preparing high-quality reports and briefings.
• Extensive expertise working in Papua New Guinea or similar environments.

“We value capability and potential, and welcome applicants who believe they can succeed in this role”

How to Apply

• Please ensure to address the Key Selection Criteria (About You) in your cover letter, and submit your application online, along with your CV as a single document.
• Applications must be submitted personally by individuals only. Applications submitted by a company or organisation will not be accepted.
• The successful applicant will be engaged through an employment agreement determined by Abt.

We welcome and thank all applications; however, only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

Closing Date: Tuesday, 18 March 2026 (Midday, local time)

The position is urgently required; applications will be evaluated as they are submitted. We advise all interested candidates to apply promptly.

Abt Global is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to upholding high standards of Child Protection, Anti-bribery and Fraud Protection.

About the Organization

Abt is committed to advancing women’s leadership in PNG’s economic development and are building an environment where women can lead progress and shape economic outcomes. Abt promotes an inclusive, respectful and safe working environment for women, and encourages experienced and capable women, men, and people with disabilities from PNG to apply.

This position includes a housing allowance, health insurance, and supportive workplace for parents and carers, including relevant leave and other benefits.

Port Moresby is a family post offering a vibrant mix of cultures, scenic coastal views, and a welcoming local and international community. Residents enjoy access to modern amenities including quality restaurants, supermarkets, hotels, wildlife park and outdoor activities including hiking, sailing, fishing and more.

About the Program

The Australia–Papua New Guinea Economic Partnership (APEP) is a flagship partnership supporting Papua New Guinea’s economic development priorities. Delivered by the Government of Australia in close collaboration with the Government of Papua New Guinea, APEP focuses on strengthening economic systems, institutions, and opportunities that support sustainable and inclusive
growth through to 2028.

Working alongside government, research institutions, and development partners, APEP delivers coordinated and high‑impact outcomes across four key engagement areas:

• Safeguarding Macroeconomic Stability
• Supporting More Efficient and Inclusive Markets
• Fostering Inclusive Growth and Expanded Livelihoods
• Catalysing Economic Research and Dialogue

Gender equality, disability social inclusion (GEDSI), women’s economic empowerment, and climate are central to APEP and integrated across all engagement areas and activities.