Evaluation Study MSE Cluster Development - Ministry of Micro ...

Chapter No: 3 – The Cluster Development Executive/AgentTo be working in a cluster specific local context through a field office that enables closeand constant contact with the cluster.It is also important to emphasize that a CDE/CDA may be drawn from a Non-Governmental Organization, an industry support organization, or an industry association.He could also be selected from among independent industry professionals or competentpersons from the concerned scientific or research institutions or BDS providers.Moreover the cluster actors as being unbiased and devoid of any vested interest shouldperceive a CDE/CDA.3.3 The Core Competencies of the CDE/CDAConsidering the varied role and functions of the CDE/CDA which is briefly described inthe previous section, there are several functional competencies required of a CDE / CDA.There are two major areas of skills that are most essential for the effective functioning ofthe CDE / CDA. The first set of essential skills are the Behavioural and Organizationalskills namely interpersonal communication, delegation of powers and responsibilities,leadership, negotiation and conflict resolution skills, planning and strategizing skills, andcollective bargaining and decision making specially related to cooperative institutions.The second set of essential skills required would be Managerial and Administrative skills,namely public relations and effective liaison with concerned ministry and departments,project and programme management skills, and also the ability to evolve appropriatelinkages with scientific and R and D institutions (specific to the cluster activity) as well asBDS providers. Familiarity with some hard skills such as financial management,accounting, business development, and information technology would also be desirable.In addition to these essential skills and competencies it would also be desirable to takeinto consideration the past working experience of a prospective CDE / CDA. Personhaving worked on assignments involving SME development either in technical NGOs,scientific institutions, or corporate concerns, could be preferred and would have an addedadvantage. It is also essential to emphasize that apart from the core competencies andexperience required of a CDE/CDA, it is most essential to ensure that the person selectedattends a comprehensive foundation training programme that sensitizes him for hisassignment as a CDE / CDA. This programme should be very carefully designed to caterto the specific training needs of these key functionaries and should be made an essentialpre condition before the person is assigned the task of a CDE / CDA. It is equallyimportant to emphasize that one cannot expect to find a CDE/CDA who has all thedesirable traits required to handle this pivotal function. It is therefore essential toensure that he is attached to and constantly assisted by the regional office of the MSME,further assisted by a Mentor (individual or institution), supported also by an appropriatesector specific scientific and technological institution, and the relevant BDS providers. ALocal Network Agent who belongs to the specific cluster and is familiar with the area andthe local language should also assist the CDE/CDA in all cases. This assistance frombelow is most essential for the CDE/CDA to carry out his or her day-to-day functions,and to remain in constant touch with the individual units that form the cluster.64