The National Cooperative Business Association CLUSA International (NCBA CLUSA) is the primary voice for people who use cooperative businesses to build a better world and a more inclusive economy. NCBA CLUSA provides cross-sector education, technical assistance, and advocacy that helps co-ops thrive. For over 100 years, NCBA CLUSA has sought to advance and protect cooperative enterprises, highlighting the impact that cooperatives have in bettering the lives of individuals and families. In the last 60 years, NCBA CLUSA has worked in over 85 countries in the areas of food security, agricultural development, strengthening of communities and farmer organizations, community-based health, natural resources management, and empowerment of smallholder farmers, women, and youth. We currently work in in Africa, Latin America, and Asia.

NCBA CLUSA’s USAID-funded Farmer-to-Farmer program sends American farmers and agribusiness professionals on 2-4 week agricultural development assignments, promoting sustainable growth and agricultural development worldwide.  Volunteer technical assistance from U.S. farmers, agribusinesses, cooperatives and universities helps smallholder farmers in developing countries improve productivity, access new markets and conserve environmental and natural resources.  During COVID-19 we have shifted to a hybrid volunteer model that affords US volunteers and in-country volunteers the opportunity to continue to provide technical assistance.   Compensation in the form of lodging, transportation, per diem, is provided by NCBA CLUSA.  No salary/consultant fees are paid. For more information visit NCBA CLUSA Farmer-to-Farmer.

NCBA CLUSA is currently seeking qualified Farmer-to-Farmer volunteer candidates (either 1- US volunteer willing to travel or 2 volunteers for a hybrid assignment- 1 remote US volunteer and 1- volunteer based in Honduras) for the position of International Marketer to support Asociación de Productores de Café Especial- APROCAE based in La Paz, Honduras.

Job Description:

APROCAE is the initiative of a small group of farmers from the municipalities of Chinacla and Marcala.  The association was founded to support coffee farmers and improve their living conditions and limited work opportunities.  APROCAE provides the last preparation process from dry parchment coffee to green coffee and exports around 900,000 pounds of organic green coffee indirectly through two local brokers.

APROCAE’S coffee harvest is estimated to increase by 11%, inspiring the association to open a new market channel and decrease their dependency on external sources to sell their coffee. With this assignment, APROCAE wishes to learn how to develop an attractive coffee sales proposition of specialty and certified coffees for international markets. APROCAE seeks a volunteer who can assist in building the cooperative’s capacities to approach clients directly, establish long-term business relationships, and negotiate a differentiated coffee price agreement. 

Duration:  2 weeks between August - December 2022

ESSENTIAL AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:

• Teach the participants how to create a unique sales proposition based on coffee characteristics, certifications, and volume of coffee available. 
• Provide tips for approaching and establishing business relationships with potential clients.
• Collaborate with participants to identify the basic steps for the exportation process.

• Degree in Marketing and/or a similar field
• Experience in developing marketing strategies is desirable 
• Knowledge of export requirements for USA or Europe market
• Experience with sales negotiation   
• Experience in working with farmers  
• Ability to transfer knowledge  
• Available for virtual communications with Host Organization, Staff and Co-volunteer
• US candidate must be legally able to work in the U.S. without sponsorship
• Advanced English language skills; reading, writing, speaking.

All application materials must be submitted in English.

Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls, please.

NCBA CLUSA is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer with a commitment to diversity.  All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, age, and legally protected characteristics for non-merit factors.