The National Cooperative Business Association CLUSA International (NCBA CLUSA) is the trade association for cooperative businesses in the United States and an international development organization. NCBA CLUSA provides cross-sector education, technical assistance, and advocacy that helps co-ops thrive. For nearly 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 100 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 21 countries in Africa, Latin America, and Asia.

NCBA CLUSA’s USAID-funded Farmer-to-Farmer program sends American farmers and agribusiness professionals on 2-4 week agricultural development assignments, promoting sustainable growth and agricultural development worldwide.  Volunteer technical assistance from U.S. farmers, agribusinesses, cooperatives and universities helps smallholder farmers in developing countries improve productivity, access new markets and conserve environmental and natural resources.  During COVID-19 we have shifted to a hybrid volunteer model that affords US volunteers and in-country volunteers the opportunity to continue to provide technical assistance.   For more information visit NCBA CLUSA Farmer-to-Farmer.

NCBA CLUSA is currently seeking qualified US candidates for 1 in-person Farmer-to-Farmer volunteer assignment for the position of Leadership & Governance Specialist to support Cooperativa Cafetalera Los Limos Limitada (COCALIL)based in Copan, Honduras.

COCALIL was established October 3, 2018 as a coffee cooperative ruled by producers seeking better economic opportunities and a streamlined production processes in one location.  The cooperative started with 32 members from the southwestern zone of Copán department. The cooperative is led by the board of directors, surveillance board and an administrative team.

While most cooperatives host monthly meetings, COCALIL only hosts their General Assembly once per year.  Discussions during this General Assembly are usually dedicated to financial and production topics. The Board of Directors and Surveillance Board members have no recollection of reading the legal statutes (no Mission and Vision statements have been created) at the beginning of their tenure nor do they participate in decision-making procedures. The board members also have a desire to receive training on cooperative development, governance and leadership. In addition to the lack of leadership, most members do not feel as though they belong to the cooperative. Leaders and some members recognize the importance of meeting regularly to discuss the organization’s performance, review financial and productive plans, and make other important decisions. They are not sure where to begin in this process to boost participation and achieve goals and have therefore requested the support of a volunteer who can train on these topics.

Duration: 2 weeks April - June 2023

ESSENTIAL AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:

• Help develop and update their Vision and Mission statements
• Help clarify roles and responsibilities based on their status within the organization; General Body Member, Surveillance Board and Board of Directors.
• Leadership and communication skills so they can achieve their goals
• How to develop an action plan to host regular meetings and replace board vacancies

SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES WILL HAVE THE FOLLOWING QUALIFICATIONS:

• Work experience in organizational development, especially governance of organizations.
• Work experience in organization management, leadership procedures, evaluating, understanding, and defining profiles, roles and responsibilities.
• Capacity to transfer knowledge. 
• Good communication skills. 
• Experience in creating profile of boards and staff.
• Available for virtual communications with Host Organization, Staff and Co-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.