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 is currently seeking 2 (1- remote US volunteer and 1- volunteer based in Peru) qualified Farmer-to-Farmer volunteer candidates for the position of Negotiator to support Asociación de Servicios ASPROVAC based in San Roman, Peru.

Asociacion de Servicios ASPROVAC was founded in 2016 by 26 farmers dedicated to producing organic quinoa and potatoes.  ASPROVAC quinoa farmers depend on their production to sustain their households. Women are directly involved in the quinoa value chain and oversee activities such as planting quinoa, harvesting and post-harvesting processes.  They collect the quinoa, pool it together and deliver 80% of their production to OLAM (their partner) and the rest is sold to brokers.  Women are not fully involved in the commercialization process since they have not acquired negotiation skills to get through this important process successfully; most of this is carried out by their spouses.

This assignment will develop each woman’s negotiation skills, equipping them with the tools to advocate for fair prices.  Workshops in building up confidence will also be necessary for this assignment, which are essential in developing leadership skills and encouraging women to advocate for themselves.  This assignment will teach: key concepts of negotiations, how to effectively negotiate and close deals, managing prices, establishing relationships with quinoa buyers and/or brokers, and leadership skills.

Duration: 2 weeks, April- June 2021          

ESSENTIAL AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:

• Conduct an analysis of current negotiation methods and provide feedback to the members.
• Teach associates the key concepts of successful negotiations so they may apply that knowledge to quinoa commercialization.
• Teach techniques for managing an effective negotiation.
• The volunteer will demonstrate techniques to manage emotions and remain motivated during negotiations
• The volunteer will teach about leadership skills and how they can be applied in the quinoa industry.

• Degree in Business, Psychology, social or a related field.
• Expertise in commercialization and business negotiation
• Extensive knowledge of key business and contractual risks.
• Proven ability to negotiate and close multi-business unit deals
• Specialization in problem solving methodology
• Experience facilitating training sessions and strong communication skills.
• Knowledge in the quinoa value chain is desirable. 
• Available for virtual communications with Host Organization, Staff and Co-volunteer
• Quechua language skills are a plus for the in-country 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.