Business Development Consultant - Volunteer in Colombia

This Volunteer Placement is Located in: Bogotá, Bogota, Colombia

Start Date: October 2024

Placement Length: 6 months with the possibility of extension

Language Requirements: Spanish Level 4-Advanced and English Level 3-Intermediate

Please submit a Spanish Resume and Statement of Interest

Eligibility: Open to Canadian Citizens and Permanent Residents of Canada only

We have an exciting opportunity for you! We are currently seeking a Entrepreneurship Advisor to help us improve our support for the communities where our partner operates. Your valuable contribution will help us achieve our goals and make a positive impact on society.

As a volunteer, you will:

• Support the beneficiaries to increase business and organizational capacities to promote their own development and economic inclusion,
• Contribute to the design, creation and implementation of workshops on entrepreneurship and other related topics,
• Provide training and assistance to partner staff on related issues and others that contribute to increasing their capabilities,
• Provide feedback and suggestions on how existing programs can be improved.

Essential Requirements:

• University degree in Economics, Business Administration, Accounting, Marketing, Finance, Business Management, or similar.

Essential Background:

• At least 2-3 years of experience in research, organizational development, project design, planning, and management, preferably with community and civil society organizations, NGOs, national and local governments, or the private sector.
• Demonstrated national or international experience in at least two of these sectors: project management, business administration, market research, innovation, marketing, microfinance, value chain analysis and management.
• Demonstrated experience leading or working in multidisciplinary and multicultural teams. - Understanding of Gender Equality, Social Inclusion and Human Rights.
• Understanding of participatory approaches to development.

What’s in it for YOU? A life-changing experience!

About Us, the Project and the Partner

Cuso International

Cuso International is an international cooperation and development organization that works to create economic and social opportunities for marginalized groups. Together with our partners, we are focused on efforts to advance gender equality and social inclusion, improve economic resilience, and deliver progress on climate action. We believe that by sharing skills, we can build better futures. Founded in 1961, Cuso International works in Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, and Canada.

We seek individuals who share our values and are committed to supporting marginalized groups, including those from the LGBTQIA+ communities.

Project - Sharing Canadian Expertise for Inclusive Development and Gender Equality (SHARE)

Cuso International will deliver the Sharing Canadian Expertise for Inclusive Development and Gender Equality (SHARE) project, with a contribution from Global Affairs Canada (GAC) over seven years (2020-2027). SHARE aims to improve the economic and/or social well-being of the poorest, most marginalized and vulnerable people, particularly women and girls, in developing countries, with a view to contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals. In addition to increasing the engagement of Canadians in international development and key global issues, this project will aim to increase the performance of country partners to deliver more inclusive, innovative and environmentally sustainable development initiatives that advance gender equality, in support of the action areas of Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy.

Partner - Centro de Estudios Marítimos

The Centro de Estudios Marinos (CEM) is a non-governmental organization based in Honduras that focuses on applied science related to coastal-marine ecosystems. It was established in 2006 on the island of Utila and has since expanded its research area to include both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of Honduras. Additionally, CEM collaborates with the Mesoamerican Reef System and the Gulf of Fonseca under regional approaches.

Cuso International's terms and conditions allow you to lead a modest and healthy lifestyle similar to local living standards. This support package will cover basic living expenses for one volunteer and is not intended to cover home-based expenses (eg. loans, support payments, etc.) or luxury items such as imported items in placement or international personal travel.

Support Package

• Modest monthly living allowance
• Accommodation while in placement
• Medical Health Insurance (including the cost of required vaccinations and antimalarial medication)
• Round-trip airfare and visa/work permit costs
• Pre-placement training, In-Country Orientation (ICO) and Reintegration Debriefing
• Support while in placement through Cuso International's Country Program Office (CPO) and local partners throughout your placement
• Access to Employee Assistance Program (EAP) while in placement and upon return
• Support to meet your fundraising goals
• Bonus: Additional return flight home or cash in lieu after 12 months of service for volunteers who extend for another 6 months