National Consultant: Responsible Business Conduct (RBC) Coordinator

Organizational Context

The International Trade Centre (ITC), a joint agency of the UN and WTO, focuses on trade-related technical cooperation in developing countries. The Green and Inclusive Value Chains Section (GIVC) develops sustainable market-driven solutions, including the Responsible Business Conduct (RBC) approach. This role supports the RBC Africa project, aiming to enhance capacity and promote responsible business practices in value chains across African countries.

Job Purpose

This role serves to coordinate and implement the Responsible Business Conduct (RBC) project activities in Cote d'Ivoire, focusing on Human Rights and Environmental Due Diligence (HREDD). The purpose is to build the capacity of value chain actors, including MSMEs and farmer organizations, to align with international standards, manage risks, and improve competitiveness. The consultant will facilitate stakeholder engagement, develop work plans, conduct readiness assessments, and support the implementation of capacity-building initiatives, ultimately contributing to smart and inclusive growth and sustainable development in sub-Saharan Africa by promoting responsible trade and production systems.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include providing in-country technical and coordination support for the RBC project in Cote d'Ivoire. This involves identifying and mapping value chain actors, mobilizing stakeholders, and facilitating dialogues to assess HREDD measures. The consultant will develop a country-level work plan, conduct due diligence readiness assessments for selected operators, and support the creation of capacity-building action plans. Additionally, the role requires organizing workshops, coordinating participation in project activities, monitoring impacts through field visits and surveys, and contributing to project reporting. The consultant will also facilitate public-private sector dialogues and promote ITC's RBC work at relevant events, maintaining communication with key national and international stakeholders.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of relevant professional experience is required in project coordination, agriculture value chain development, smallholder development, and agro-processing/exports, including knowledge of agri-business and participatory approaches. Experience working with international organizations, supporting smallholder farmer development, and understanding environmental sustainability and governance systems is desirable.

Skills

Knowledge of target sectors (agriculture/agribusiness, critical minerals, textiles) and Cote d’Ivoire’s ecosystem. Understanding of Trade and MSME development in LDCs. Proficiency in multi-stakeholder platform facilitation and public-private sector engagement. Strong project management and coordination skills. Excellent time management and ability to work with minimum supervision. Advanced French and English language proficiency.

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