Livelihoods & Business Development Specialist
Conservation International protects nature for the benefit of humanity. Through science, policy, fieldwork, and finance, we spotlight and secure the most important places in nature for the climate, biodiversity, and for people. With offices in 30 countries and projects in more than 100 countries, Conservation International partners with governments, companies, civil society, Indigenous peoples, and local communities to help people and nature thrive together.
POSITION SUMMARY - This position is based in Suva, Fiji
The Livelihood Specialist will lead the execution of sustainable livelihoods and business development activities within Conservation International’s (CI) partner communities in Fiji. This includes providing technical guidance and inputs to integrate socio-economic aspects in conservation priorities and outcomes. The Livelihoods and Business Development Specialist will be responsible for designing, managing, and delivering all livelihood-related and business development activities led by CI Fiji. The Livelihoods and Business Development Specialist will conduct stakeholder analysis and commodity value-chain assessments to identify sustainable income-generating opportunities, and nature-positive livelihood initiatives that build community economic resilience. The Specialist will build partnerships and collaborate with multiple actors in the value chain, from producers to end-consumer markets, subsequently increasing returns on nature-positive community businesses. The Livelihoods and Business Development Specialist will assist in identifying threats caused by economic activities and strategic business interventions by incorporating remedial integrative conservation action. Finally, the Livelihoods and Business Development Specialist will identify alternative livelihood options and other viable commercial initiatives to provide financial sustainability in and around protected areas and indigenous lands, specifically within LMMAs.
The Livelihoods and Business Development Specialist will build knowledge and understanding of how socio-economic factors influence and support sustainable development efforts. The Specialist will further lead capacity-building programs for CI community and civil society partners that incorporate stakeholder engagement, socio-economic analysis, monitoring, and related socio-economic themes. These will include delivery or coordination of capacity-building programs focused on financial literacy and access, investments, and general business development. The Specialist will foster strong partnerships with key stakeholders, including government officials, local community, private sector, and other socioeconomic partners.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Undertake research (desk and field) to identify primary commodities for sustainable livelihood improvements, and associated business development intervention strategies to improve productivity levels, production capacity, market access, and institutional capacity of MSMEs.
Diversify the livelihood and/or business development options for the target communities, particularly by introducing activities or environment-friendly technologies which add value to traditional crops/produce.
Explore the need and organize the necessary value chain and market research to enhance linkages with the private sector, financial institutions, and technical support services.
Document and disseminate the best practices on sustainable livelihoods and commodity development
Lead in the planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of all livelihood and business development activities at CI project sites, particularly in Ra and Lau province.
Other duties as assigned by the supervisor.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Typical office environment.
This position requires frequent travel, primarily within the country, to attend meetings, visit field projects, and interact with local authorities and communities.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required
Minimum bachelor’s degree in Commerce, Economics, Ecology, Environmental Science, Social Science, or related field.
4 to 6 years of experience working with socioeconomic issues and developing incentives to achieve conservation priorities.
Experience with project development, management, and implementation.
Proven ability to engage and collaborate effectively with institutions at the national and regional level, including the private sector, NGOs, and local communities.
Team player and able to work effectively with diverse work groups in a multicultural environment.
Strong analytical and assessment skills.
Understanding of the economic and social issues facing developing countries and the local communitiesis strongly preferred.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Proposal writing experience preferred.
Preferred
Proposal writing experience.
To apply for this position, please submit a resume and cover letter.
Application Deadline: March 3, 2026 (11:49 PM EST)
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