Recruiter’s secrets spilled

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One Acre Fund is seeking to hire a Data and Execution Specialist in Tanzania.

We spoke with a recruiter to get insights into what they look for when reviewing CVs for this role.

If you’re considering applying (for this or a similar position), here’s what you should keep in mind:

The first filter is location. Since the job is titled Tanzania Data and Execution Specialist, the recruiter will only shortlist candidates who are based in Tanzania.

If a job specifies the location, make sure you meet that requirement before applying.

After location, the next filter is the applicant’s background.

One Acre Fund works with smallholder farmers, so the recruiter looks for either direct experience in agriculture or, at the very least, a strong interest in the sector.

An agricultural background is key. Because this is a ‘specialist’ role, she expects candidates to show either some experience in agriculture or a clear, demonstrated interest in it.

Next are data skills, which she describes as non-negotiable. Because data is central to the role, she prioritises candidates with strong experience in data tools, analysis, and dashboards.

Without solid data skills, it is very difficult to make it past the first screening.

Logistics and field operations experience also matter but come second. She will prioritise data over logistics.

However, if a candidate has both strong data and field operations skills, they are automatically prioritised.

If someone has only data skills, they may still be considered.

On the other hand, if someone has mostly logistics experience with some data exposure, that person might also make the cut, since logistics can often be learnt on the job.

Project management is another area she will check carefully. Even if a CV does not explicitly say “project management”, she looks for evidence that the candidate has managed projects or led teams. 

Other areas such as quality control, auditing, impact assessment, extension services, team leadership, and organisational culture tend to draw on transferable skills from past experiences.

But again, the starting point is always the main skill in the job title: data.

She will also check whether applicants can make use of specific data tools, create and manage dashboards, and demonstrate excellent project management skills.

Data collection and analysis are critical cut-off points.

Finally, when she is comparing very strong candidates, she will use preferred skills to decide who is prioritised.

For example, if two candidates both have solid data, project management, and field operations skills, then she looks at extras such as deep agricultural experience or familiarity with STATA and GIS.

Candidates with those are automatically prioritised.

Have you ever applied for a job only to realise you sent the wrong cover letter or CV? 😬 Jump on LinkedIn and share your experience, I’d love to hear your story.