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Position Title: Short Term Consultant – Candlenut Oil Expert
Location: Remote
Country: Timor-Leste
Deadline Date: 1 November 2024

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The Market Development Facility (MDF) is an initiative funded by the Australian Government and co-funded by the New Zealand Government in specific regions. Established to enhance Economic Growth in the Indo-Pacific region, MDF operates in countries such as Fiji, Timor-Leste, Samoa, Vanuatu, Tonga, and Sri Lanka. The organization focuses on improving productivity, economic diversification, competitiveness, and trade. With a mission to support good business that reduces poverty, empowers women, and combats Climate Change, MDF collaborates with local and international partners to co-invest in innovative market opportunities, thereby reducing risks and costs associated with early-stage commercial ventures. The organization is implemented by Palladium in partnership with Swisscontact, and it employs a diverse workforce dedicated to creating positive impacts in the communities they serve.

Job Overview:
The position of Candlenut Oil Expert is a short-term consultancy role aimed at enhancing the market development of candlenut oil in Timor-Leste. The expert will be responsible for assessing the quality of local candlenut oil, identifying potential markets for export, and facilitating connections between local exporters and international buyers. This role is crucial as it aims to increase the profitability of candlenut oil, which has seen limited export compared to its raw form. The expert will work remotely and is expected to deliver specific outputs within a maximum of 12 days from October 2024 to April 202

• The role requires a deep understanding of the candlenut sector, market dynamics, and the ability to engage effectively with various stakeholders to promote the export of Timorese candlenut oil.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Candlenut Oil Expert will have several key responsibilities, including:

• Assessing samples of Timorese candlenut oil and developing a comprehensive product profile over a span of 3 days.
• Identifying potential markets and buyers for Timorese candlenut oil, compiling a contact list, and detailing the volume and quality requirements of these buyers, which will take approximately 5 days.
• Initiating business connections between candlenut importers and Timorese exporters, facilitating the export process over a period of 4 days. The total input is expected to be up to 12 days, with the possibility of splitting the days based on negotiation with MDF.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must possess a minimum of 7 years of experience in the candlenut sector, particularly in developing economies. They should have a proven track record of working with candlenut exporters or importers, focusing on Market Access, strategy, and operations. Strong interpersonal skills are essential, as the role requires constructive engagement with both the private and public sectors, as well as development partners. Proficiency in English or Indonesian is mandatory, and knowledge of Timor-Leste is preferred, enhancing the candidate's ability to navigate the local market effectively.

Educational Background:
While specific educational qualifications are not explicitly stated, candidates are generally expected to have a relevant background in fields such as Agriculture, economics, Business Development, or International Trade, which would support their understanding of market dynamics and Agricultural Practices related to candlenut oil.

Experience:
The position requires extensive experience, specifically a minimum of 7 years in the candlenut sector. This experience should encompass working with exporters or importers, focusing on market access and operational strategies. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of the agricultural landscape in Timor-Leste and the global market for candlenut oil, which is crucial for identifying opportunities and facilitating exports.

Languages:
Proficiency in English or Indonesian is mandatory for this role, as effective communication with local and international stakeholders is essential. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to the target markets could be advantageous but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy role is remote-based, allowing for flexibility in work arrangements. The total duration of the consultancy is up to 12 days, with the actual number of days potentially being less, depending on the direction provided by MDF. There are no anticipated travel expenses, and any additional costs, such as lab testing, must receive prior approval from MDF. The closing date for applications is set for 1 November 2024, at midnight Timor Leste time.