About this role
Artisan Business Development Specialist
Project Description: Are you passionate about preserving cultural heritage and supporting creative industries?
The Vanuatu Department of Industry seeks support to strengthen the handicraft sector— a vital part of the nation’s cultural identity and rural economy. Since integrating the Creative Industry Sector in 2021, the department has worked to formalize and sustain handicraft production across Vanuatu. However, rapid growth in stakeholder interest and demand has outpaced available resources, creating challenges in maintaining quality standards, addressing logistical barriers, and improving market access.
Partnering with the Department will help bridge these gaps and empower communities, especially women. This can be a part of strengthening Vanuatu’s creative industries, drive rural economic growth, and unlock the country’s potential to compete in niche markets with premium products. As the Artisan Business Development Specialist, you will support rural artisans to preserve traditional weaving techniques while fostering innovation and quality standards. Your collaborative efforts will enhance domestic and export markets, improve livelihoods, and promote cultural heritage for future generations.
Required Skills: Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, including social science, education, business, management and organizational development. AND Three or more years of technical expertise in organizational capacity development and training, strategic planning, or results-based project management and reporting.
Living Conditions: While this assignment is based in Vanuatu’s capital, the Volunteer should still be prepared for a lifestyle that differs from urban settings elsewhere. Housing is generally modest and may include basic amenities, and access to running water and electricity can vary. Occasional travel to outer islands may involve boat trips and navigating varied terrain, such as beaches and forest paths.
Activities: Conduct an assessment of the handicraft sector to identify gaps and opportunities. Facilitate training sessions on quality standards and formal business practices. Support artisans in developing innovative designs for domestic and international markets. Assist in creating and implementing marketing strategies for handicraft hubs. Promote handicraft products through social media and other digital platforms. Develop a system for collecting and analyzing data on handicraft production and sales. Collaborate with stakeholders to strengthen the handicraft value chain.
You may also work on additional projects that meet the community’s interests and priorities, such as a reading or movie club.
Training: After a 2-week orientation on topics such as health and safety, you will move to a provincial community where you will collaborate with the Department of Industry to assess the local needs and develop a work plan in line with their established goals.
Peace Corps/Vanuatu will equip you with Bislama language resources and you may work with a local tutor who can help you build basic language skills to connect with the community.
Job Highlights: Learn common Bislama phrases from colleagues, neighbors, and a tutor. Gain a deeper understanding of challenges facing entrepreneurs in the Pacific Islands. Be inspired by Vanuatu’s creative artisans while contributing to Vanuatu’s local economy.