Brief Description:

TYPE OF ASSIGNMENT: Volunteer Cooperant (VC/OS)
Unaccompanied assignment - This assignment does not include support for accompanying partners or dependants

PARTNER: SMALL PRODUCERS DEVELOPMENT AND TRANSPORTERS ASSOCIATION (SPRODETA)

LOCATION: MALAWI , Mzuzu

DURATION: 12 months

EXPECTED DEPARTURE DATE: Departure date is contingent upon completion of administrative file and approval of visa. Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis and position will remain open until filled.

OVERVIEW:
Uniterra is a leading Canadian international volunteer cooperation and development program, jointly implemented by World University Service of Canada (WUSC) and the Centre for International Studies and Cooperation (CECI).

Uniterra contributes to improving the socio-economic conditions of poor and marginalized communities in 14 countries and with over 200 partners in Africa, Asia and the Americas through the exchange of expertise and knowledge of Canadian and international volunteers. Uniterra believes that economic growth, when inclusive, is the most powerful driver of poverty reduction. The purpose of the Uniterra program is to improve the lives of some of the world’s most vulnerable populations by stimulating growth and facilitating access to the benefits of growing and diversified markets. To make this happen, we are working with our local partners to enhance the income of poor and marginalized women and youth through better access to employment and income generation opportunities. Uniterra country program staff work with our local partners to design Uniterra assignments in the context of the country strategy, supporting the inclusion of women and youth in key economic subsectors.

For more information on the Uniterra program, our approach and countries of focus please visit: uniterra.ca

PARTNER DESCRIPTION:
Small Producers Development and Transporters Association (SPRODETA) was formed in 2009 and is an organization of rural and peri-urban small holder farmers involved in agricultural and livelihood initiatives. Through SPRODETA, they come together to lobby for better services to increase the sustainability of their livelihoods. The organization’s vision that of food secure, resilient and economically viable small producers. It works to enable these producers to come together and carry out inclusive and sustainable development initiatives in five key areas: food security and health; disaster and environmental management; economic empowerment and marketing; water, sanitation and hygiene; and education and learning. Specifically, SPRODETA is working in disaster-prone communities in Mzimba, Chitipa and Rumphi districts.

The Marketing Advisor will contribute to the objectives of the Uniterra program by building the capacity of SPRODETA staff and partner committees to market their businesses and attract potential buyers.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Build the capacity of SPRODETA and members in conducting SWOT analyses of their business and marketing plans;
- Support SPRODETA and members in assessing, reviewing and updating their business management and marketing strategies;
- Support SPRODETA in assessing the marketing capacity of staff;
- Assist staff in executing and reviewing business plans;
- Build the capacity of staff in enhancing the visibility of the network and its members (e.g. visibility and branding materials);
- In collaboration with staff, conduct market research to identify trends and opportunities for SPRODETA;
- Develop and conduct training for staff on market research, including branding, positioning, communication and marketing;
- Make recommendations to SPRODETA on the use of market research results;
- Produce training manuals for community marketing committees;
- Ensure the participation and representation of women and youth in activities and program benefits;
- Write reports required by SPRODETA and the Uniterra program.

QUALIFICATIONS:
- Degree in commerce, marketing, business management, business administration, or a relevant field
- At least 3 years of experience in marketing and business development
- Experience with training and facilitation
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Ability to work in an intercultural environment

VOLUNTEER BENEFITS AND SUPPORT:
- Support and guidance prior to departure and while on assignment in country.
- Participation in a pre-departure training where you will have the opportunity to learn about the program, gain practical skills for living and working in an intercultural context and meet other volunteers. Travel, meals and accommodation are covered.
- In-country orientation and briefing upon arrival in-country.
- Language training in-country where required.
- Return flights, visas and work permits.
- Cost of required country specific vaccinations and antimalarials.
- Health insurance.
- Modest monthly living allowance while overseas.
- Accommodation while overseas.
- Vacation leave entitlement.
- Return debriefing in Canada after completion of assignment. Travel, meals and accommodation are covered.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
- Applicants must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada between the age of 18-70.
- Departure date is contingent upon the timely completion of all administrative requirements (e.g. visa processes, medical clearance, police checks, travel documentation).
- With the support of the program, all volunteers shall undertake to make a minimum financial contribution of $1,500 for participating in the program.

TO APPLY VISIT:
http://agora.ceci.ca/SGC/WUSProje.nsf/va_WPO/AB075B7845AB9CEF4225818A0064C694?OpenDocument&lg=enok

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