Consultant national - Officier de liaison

Organizational context:
The International Trade Centre (ITC) aims to enhance the competitiveness of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in developing countries. This role supports the "Africa Trade Competitiveness and Market Access (ATCMA)" program, focusing on improving trade facilitation and logistics performance at strategic corridors and border crossings, specifically within the Central Africa component.

Job purpose:

This consultancy role serves as a National Consultant for Liaison in the Republic of Congo, supporting the ITC's "Africa Trade Competitiveness and Market Access (ATCMA)" program. The primary purpose is to act as a liaison with national stakeholders, facilitate data collection, support the organization of consultations, and provide operational coordination on the ground. This position is crucial for diagnosing port ecosystem and logistics connectivity issues at the Pointe-Noire autonomous port, identifying trade flow constraints, and contributing to recommendations for improved trade facilitation and competitiveness within priority value chains.

Responsibilities:
The consultant will facilitate stakeholder engagement and institutional coordination by liaising with national administrations and institutions involved in port operations and trade facilitation, including the Port of Pointe-Noire and Customs. They will support the identification and mobilization of public and private stakeholders and ensure smooth communication between ITC, the international consultant, and national parties. Responsibilities also include supporting data collection and field research by gathering necessary documents and information on trade procedures and logistics, preparing technical meetings, and facilitating access to key actors and sites.

Furthermore, the consultant will coordinate the logistical organization of activities such as meetings and field visits, manage practical aspects of travel and venue arrangements, and contribute to documentation. Finally, they will support monitoring and reporting by providing regular updates on activity progress and challenges.

Education:

A university degree (Bachelor's or Master's level) in economics, international trade, logistics, public administration, international relations, or a related field is required. A relevant combination of significant professional experience and academic training may be accepted as a substitute. Excellent written and spoken French is mandatory, with English being an asset.

Work experience:

A minimum of 5 years of professional experience is required in coordination, trade facilitation, logistics, administration, or project implementation related to international trade. Proven experience working with public institutions, port authorities, or private sector organizations in the Republic of Congo is essential. Experience in organizing consultations, technical workshops, or multi-stakeholder coordination activities is also necessary.

Skills:

Strong coordination and field activity organization skills. Ability to interact effectively with public administrations, port authorities, and private sector actors. Good knowledge of the institutional and operational environment related to trade, port operations, and trade facilitation in the Republic of Congo. Excellent communication, writing, and synthesis skills. Proficiency in office software and virtual meeting tools.

Required languages:

Desired languages: