The Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) is a leading international forestry research organization committed to conserving forests and improving the livelihoods of people in the tropics. With Headquarters in Bogor, Indonesia and offices in Asia, Africa and South America, CIFOR works in over 30 countries worldwide and has links with researchers in 50 international, regional and national organizations. CIFOR is a member of the CGIAR (Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research).
Background Information:
CIFOR and its partners receive funding from ACIAR Australia to do action research on mahogany and teak furniture to improve value chain efficiency and enhance livelihoods (FST/2007/119). Jepara, Central Java, has a long tradition of high-quality furniture making. With the adoption of good business practice, Jepara could be a strong competitor in international markets. Currently, inefficiencies and unfairness in its value chain result in plantation over-harvesting and livelihood insecurity. This project aims to improve the value chain for mahogany and teak furniture enterprises in Jepara. Specific objectives are to; enhance the structure and functioning of the furniture industry to benefit small-scale producers; improve marketing by small-scale producers and their organizations.
Duties and Responsibilities:
1) Assist in project management:
- Manage contracts and agreements with research partners, donors, consultants, and interns;
- Maintain and monitor financial records, in close collaboration with the Finance Unit;
- Manage regular project newsletter.
- Assist in organizing workshops, training or field work as required;
- Assist in reporting (minutes, translation, etc);
- Other duties as required by the project.
2) Participate in research:
- Participate in fieldwork as required;
- Maintain appropriate communications with key stakeholders and partners, including local and national government agencies, furniture producers, NGOs and donor organizations;
- Maintain databases related to the project/programme;
- Assist in (literature) review and data analysis;
- Assist with the preparation and publication of research results/reports;
- Assist in other research activities as required.
Qualifications and Competencies:
a. Education and Experience:
- A relevant university degree (Bachelor) in Forestry or Economics or equivalent qualifications
- Knowledge of and experience in small-scale industry, marketing and forest certification is an advantage;
- At least three years of relevant professional experience in research/advocacy working environment;
- Familiarity with aid donor activities and processes is desirable;
- Excellent command in written and spoken English
- Strong computer skills in word processing and other relevant office applications software packages (i.e. MS Word, PowerPoint, Excel and web/database applications).
b. Personal Competencies:
- Competency in personal organization and priority setting, with the ability to work effectively under time pressure and manage multiple priorities;
- Have initiative and capable of working independently as well as an effective team player;
- Good interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively interact with people in a multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural environment;
- Experience working with a wide and diverse network of groups and individuals.
Application Process:
Applications will be accepted until a suitable candidate is identified. Interviews will be held in Bogor, Indonesia. All applications will be acknowledged, however only short-listed candidates will be contacted. All correspondence will be held in confidence. Letter of interest and curriculum vita should be sent to:
Human Resources Department, CIFOR E-mail: cifor-hr@cgiar.org (Please indicate the position in the email subject line)
To learn more about CIFOR, please visit our website: http://www.cifor.cgiar.org
