Reference number: 202610
Job status: In-progress
Job category: Local Position
Duty station: Abomey-Calavi, Benin
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CIFOR-ICRAF
The Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) and World Agroforestry (ICRAF) envision a more equitable world where trees in all landscapes, from drylands to the humid tropics, enhance the environment and well-being for all. CIFOR and ICRAF are non-profit science institutions that build and apply evidence to todayโs most pressing challenges, including energy insecurity and the climate and biodiversity crises. Over a combined total of 65 years, we have built vast knowledge on forests and trees outside of forests in agricultural landscapes (agroforestry). Using a multidisciplinary approach, we seek to improve lives and to protect and restore ecosystems. Our work focuses on innovative research, partnering for impact, and engaging with stakeholders on policies and practices to benefit people and the planet. Founded in 1993 and 1978, CIFOR and ICRAF are members of CGIAR, a global research partnership for a food secure future dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing food and nutrition security, and improving natural resources. CIFOR-ICRAF is looking for a
Project Assistant - Value chains
Overview The purpose of the position is to identify, develop, and scale nature-positive, locally driven value chains by strengtheningโbased enterprises, supporting communities and MSMEs, and improving access to markets, finance, and an enabling institutional environment. The role aims to translate local market opportunities into viable, inclusive, and sustainable businesses that contribute to livelihoods, biodiversity conservation, and regenerative land use in the target countries (Ethiopia, Ghana, Mali, Nigeria, Niger, Senegal, Somalia
Duties and responsibilities
Jointly with country team, conduct market analyses, identify opportunities (value chains, priority enterprises and key actors), and develop demand-driven market action plans for each target country.Project actors need assessment and training modules development based on identified gaps.
Support the selection and reporting for each country, priority value chains and enterprises based on local opportunities and national priorities, with the aim of promoting indigenous and so-called โforgottenโ species through appropriate marketing tools and materials.
Support communities and micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in developing tree-based value chains with viable business models and facilitate access to higherโvalue-added markets.
Jointly with country team, identify at least one financing mechanism per country for the selected value chains or enterprises, and co-develop investment plans and risk-mitigation strategies for regenerative activities and value chains
Organize and contribute to national consultation forums to strengthen collaboration with value chain actors, enterprises, and relevant institutions
Identify institutional and regulatory bottlenecks affecting local entrepreneurship and innovation, and contribute to addressing and removing these constraints
Support the advocacy with value chain stakeholders and the private sector
Compile country Value chains, innovation and entrepreneurship field interventions technical report.
Requirements
Masterโs degree in tree-based agricultural-economy, Agribusiness, socio-economy, green-economy, Rural Development, or a related field.Proven experience of at least 3 years in value chain development, market analysis, business support, innovation platforms.
Proven knowledge in developing and implementing VC, business plans, innovation related training modules.
Knowledge of indigenous/underutilized species, tree-based value chains, and regenerative business models.
Experience working with local communities, MSMEs, and multiple stakeholders.
Education, knowledge and experience โข Masterโs degree in tree-based agricultural-economy, Agribusiness, socio-economy, green-economy, Rural Development, or a related field.
โข Proven experience of at least 3 years in value chain development, market analysis, business support, innovation platforms.
โข Proven knowledge in developing and implementing VC, business plans, innovation related training modules.
โข Knowledge of indigenous/underutilized species, tree-based value chains, and regenerative business models.
โข Experience working with local communities, MSMEs, and multiple stakeholders.
Terms and conditions โข This is a Locally Recruited Position (LRS). CIFOR-ICRAF offers competitive remuneration in local currency commensurate with skills and experience.
โข The initial appointment will be for two (2) years, with a six-month probationary period, with the possibility of extension contingent upon performance, continued relevance of the position and available resources.
โข The duty station will be in Abomey-Calavi, Benin CIFOR-ICRAF Offices.
Application process The application deadline is 05 Mar 2026
We will acknowledge all applications, but will contact only short-listed candidates.
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