The Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) deliver research-based solutions that harness agricultural biodiversity and sustainably transform food systems. The Alliance is part of CGIAR.
About the position: Based in Conakry, the Consultant will provide technical expertise, project development, and coordination support for agricultural and rural development initiatives in Guinea and the broader West Africa region, with a primary focus on the cocoa and coffee value chains. The consultant will support the Cacao Connect Initiative, a flagship multi-country partnership led by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI), and will coordinate with the Embassy of Italy in Conakry, Guinean national authorities and international development cooperation agencies. The Consultant operates under the direct contractual and functional responsibility of the Alliance.
Key responsibilities:
1. Agricultural value chain analysis and technical support: technical expertise on agri-food value chains in Guinea and West Africa, especially cocoa and coffee, including climate-resilient agroforestry systems, product quality, post-harvest handling, traceability and EUDR compliance.
2. Institutional coordination and stakeholder engagement: act as in-country focal point for the Cacao Connect Initiative; coordinate with ministries, development agencies, the Embassy of Italy, research institutions, private-sector actors and farmer organizations; maintain a stakeholder map.
3. Support to project monitoring and field activities: monitor ongoing projects, conduct field visits, and support institutional missions, technical meetings and stakeholder consultations.
4. Technical documentation, reporting and project development: prepare technical notes, project briefs, mission reports, value chain assessments and concept notes; contribute to new project proposals.
5. Pipeline development: identify emerging priorities and funding opportunities in Guinea and West Africa and support a pipeline of projects and partnerships.
Key deliverables: a country-level strategic document; stakeholder map; a living Country Action Tracker; regular strategic briefings; workshop support; representation at institutional engagements.
Requirements: Advanced university degree in Political Science, International Relations, Development Studies, Economics, Agriculture or related fields; minimum 4 years of experience in stakeholder engagement, government relations, strategic advisory or development programs; experience in complex institutional environments, preferably in West Africa or Guinea; understanding of political economy and development cooperation frameworks; experience in agricultural value chains and sustainability (cocoa knowledge a strong asset); excellent English and French; willingness to travel internationally.
Terms: Remote consultancy for an initial 12 months, renewable subject to performance, need and funding. Compensation commensurate with experience.
closing date: 1st October 2026
HOW TO APPLY:
Visit https://alliancebioversityciat.org/careers to get full details of the position and to submit your application. Email applications will not be considered. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.