ASSIGNMENT DURATION: 12 months

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATION: January 31, 2016

EXPECTED DEPARTURE DATE: March 17, 2016

OVERVIEW:

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

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:

One of Uniterra's key local partners is the Mongolian Wool and Cashmere Association (MWCA), established in 1993, is a non-government organization consisting of about 97 member enterprises and research institutions. Its main activities include strengthening mutual understanding between the herders, manufacturers and research organizations, as well as spreading the appeal of woolen and cashmere products to foreign and domestic buyers. In addition, the association represents member corporations in dealings with the government to insure their rights and interests are protected.

Currently, MCWA has been adjusting its focus and its direction to strongly develop the community college model and to enhance new co-operation opportunities. One of the MCWA's key missions is to support its member institutions to accelerate international collaboration and internal co-operation, as well as to continue building capacities for its member institutions. Supporting the capacity building of MCWA institution members is also a key objective of the mandate.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop with members of MWCA, a brand and marketing framework;

• Assist MWCA in selecting model enterprises and target product(s) for marketing and branding;

• Assist MWCA to identify potential international brand owners to work with the selected Mongolian enterprises in cooperation with partners;

• Analyse current brand components - visual appearance (including packaging), communication tone and style, in cooperation with sector specialist;

• Design and conduct a brand and marketing training program for Mongolian enterprises with sector specialist;

• Work closely with MWCA, its institution members, Uniterra field staff and a Research and Analysis Team (made up of individuals with a variety of abilities, experience, backgrounds and interests, who can bring various perspectives and skills to this complex task) to do analytical research on: (i) economic subsectors within the national economy in general and(ii) fibre sub-sector in particular;

• Work with MWCA, its institution members and Uniterra volunteers to gather baseline information, success stories, case studies and market access opportunities and challenges, and to better understand the economic positioning of women and youth;

• Ensure the participation and representation of women and men in all activities;

• Prepare and draft reports required by the host organization and the Uniterra program.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Undergraduate degree in marketing, international business, or economics;

• Experience in international brand and marketing in private sector;

• Experience in developing brand(s) and promoting export/target markets is highly preferred;

• Experience in branding livestock-based wool and cashmere products is preferred.

• Demonstrated knowledge of economic development processes, market-based approaches, value chain analysis (preferably in Cashmere and wool or comparable product);

• Understanding of the fibre sector (Cashmere and wool) along the entire value chain would be an asset

• Ability to analyze through a gender lens;

• Experience organizing and facilitating workshops/training with participatory approaches;

• Responsible, great capacity of adaptation, and good sense of humour;

• Prior international work experience is essential

VOLUNTEER BENEFITS AND SUPPORT:

• Support and guidance from the Uniterra team prior to departure and while on assignment in country.

• Participation in a pre-departure training course where you will have the opportunity to learn about Uniterra’s work, 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.

• Comprehensive health insurance.

• Modest monthly living allowance while overseas.

• Accommodation while overseas.

• Vacation leave entitlement.

• Support for accompanying partners and up to two dependants on placements of greater than 12 months.

• Return debriefing in Canada after completion of assignment. Travel, meals and accommodation are covered.

• An incredible opportunity to enhance your professional skills and participate in an experience of a lifetime!

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:

• Applicants must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada between the age of 18-70.

• With the support of Uniterra, all volunteers shall undertake to make a minimum financial contribution for participating in the Uniterra program:  $2,000 for assignments of 4 months or less; $1,500 for over 4 months.

• Departure date is contingent upon the timely completion of all administrative requirements (e.g. visa processes, medical clearance, police checks, travel documentation).