Horticulture and Marketing Advisor - Volunteer in Laos

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**Please note this is a 12-month position based in Laos for October (flexible).

Open to Canadian Citizens Only

The purpose of this placement is to improve and diversify farmers’ incomes exploring market potential for improved/ diversified production and upgrading of value chains for conventional vegetable and fruit production. It is hoped that new potential markets including access to export and inter-provincial trade will be developed as well as the adaptation of low cost sustainable agriculture techniques that are resilient to the impacts of climate change.

The volunteer will

• Work with relevant partners (government, iNGOs, Local Associations & private sector) to develop marketing links for horticulture products.
• Support the partner in developing new climate resilient systems for horticultural production and provide training to increase technical capacity for staff.
• Develop managerial & business skills and improve capacity building for farmers groups and producer associations.
• Collaborate with Laos staff in their development of a Project Concept Note for an extended programme, and explore other small grant sources for which the PAFO may apply.
• Contribute to the development of other terms of reference (TORs) or placement descriptions of other volunteers (e.g. short term Business Development and Marketing advisors) as required.
• Contribute to the review and further development of the Cuso International country strategy, exchange information & good practice with other volunteers & colleagues in respective partner organisations.
• Identify gender mainstreaming activities and initiatives that directly tackle issues relating to inclusion (people with disabilities, indigenous minority groups, and people living with HIV/AIDS).

Essential Academic Qualifications

• Degree in Agricultural Sciences / Horticultural Production

BSc in Economics / Business & Marketing or Agriculture with components in agricultural economics, processing and marketing

Essential Professional Background/Competencies

• Horticulture production skills and experience- Experience and proven competencies in community development, farmer facilitation and application of new techniques
• Experience of undertaking market analysis or market assessments especially in relation to poor rural communities
• Experience or knowledge of enterprise & business development and / or agri-business for poor rural communities
• Commitment to volunteerism and community participation
• Agriculture/horticulture project implementation experience.

APPLY: https://cusoconnect.cusointernational.org/journey/placement/detail/48964/

Cuso International covers the following costs:

1. Return airfare and visa/permit costs
2. Accommodation while overseas
3. Modest living allowance while overseas
4. Modest support for accompanying partners and dependents going on placement with you for 12 months or longer
5. The cost of required vaccinations, antimalarial medication and health insurance
6. Access to Employee Assistance Program while overseas and upon return
7. Travel and accommodation for reintegration debriefing weekend
8. Travel and accommodation for the five-day pre-departure training course and in-country training orientation