Agricultural Business Development Specialist
Project Description
Jamaica 4-H Clubs (4-H) has requested the support of a Peace Corps Response Volunteer (PCRV) to serve as an Agricultural Business Development Specialist. 4-H seeks to mobilize, educate and train youth in leadership skills and vocations through the effective deployment of staff and volunteers utilizing adaptive technologies, to influence trainees to develop sustainable livelihoods and become positive contributors to national development. The scope of this assignment will include the assessment and development of a business plan for one of ten production centers. This is the launch of a multi-year partnership with 4-H at the Parish level. The Agricultural Business Development Specialist will assist in assessing and propose potential business models for viable activities and to subsequently develop business plans for them. This will support 4-H in its role in empowering youth to contribute to the growth and development of Jamaica’s agriculture sector in the midst of the challenges posed by climate change.
The PCRV will work with the Director of Field Services to develop a findings report with recommendations and work plan. The PCRV will also conduct an assessment of work setting and related areas to the job, review with colleagues the mechanisms and other processes used to determine priorities and how services are delivered, while drawing on the expertise of the host agency and department, university specialists and other local and foreign experts, like Peace Corps staff and Peace Corps Volunteers. The goal of this assignment is to develop business models enterprises identified in the assessment phase for implementation at the production center.
Please note that departure dates and other details of this project could change because of the uncertainties as Peace Corps and local partners resume volunteer operations. Candidates selected for this position will be arriving in Jamaica together as a group, so while the departure dates for the whole group could change, dates cannot be changed for individual candidates.
Partner Information
Jamaica 4-H Clubs (4-H)
Required Skills
• High tolerance for ambiguity and high level of flexibility – some details of this project could change because of the uncertainties as Peace Corps and local partners resume volunteer operations
• Master’s Degree in Agricultural Business Development or related field
• 5 years’ experience in the area of agro-industry or agro-processing specialization.
• Experience working with rural agricultural development
• Experience in enterprise development and feasibility studies business modelling, planning and financial planning,
• Experience implementing entrepreneurship programmes
• Good interpersonal communication, report writing and computing skills.
• Experience in agricultural/animal husbandry production
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office
• Self-directed but also able to work as a team in cross-cultural setting
The Peace Corps embraces and leverages the diversity of its volunteers as a reflection of America's diversity. Peace Corps Response is committed to reflecting the diversity of the United States in the professionals we send into the field to support the mission of world peace and friendship. Applicants with diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Serving in Jamaica
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Medical Considerations
Before you apply, please review Medical Information for Applicants to learn about the medical clearance process.
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