Please note that the deadline is based on Korean Standard Time Zone (KST, UTC+9)

INTRODUCTION TO GGGI

The Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) is a treaty-based international, inter-governmental organization dedicated to supporting and promoting strong, inclusive and sustainable economic growth in developing countries and emerging economies. To learn more please visit about GGGI web page.

• Project: CO038-E1 Just Rural Transition in Colombia – Bio Rural & CO048-E1 Mapbio Antioquia

• Output: CO038-E1-3 (4.500 USD) and CO048-E1-1 (12.500 USD)

• Duty Station: Medellín (Colombia)

• Contract Duration: (27) April 2026 - (20) March 2027

• Number of Workdays Estimated (internal purpose only): 215 days– deliverable based

• Consultant: Level 2

• Total Fees: Up to USD 17,000

GGGI implements a diverse portfolio of programs across developing countries. Through these in-country initiatives, complemented by global products and services, the organization delivers results through an integrated approach that combines evidence-based policy planning, technical assistance, and investment facilitation, aligned with national development priorities. GGGI also promotes knowledge generation and management activities that strengthen the theoretical and empirical foundations of green growth, provide practical guidance for policymakers, and help create enabling conditions for both public and private green investments.

In Colombia, GGGI has been working closely with the national government since 2014 to advance green growth policies and investments. The organization has established strategic partnerships with institutions such as the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, the Ministry of Finance and Public Credit, and the National Planning Department (DNP), among others.

Through this collaboration, GGGI supported the National Planning Department in developing Colombia’s vision and transition pathway toward green growth. Between 2016 and 2018, GGGI contributed to the establishment and technical work of the Green Growth Taskforce, which generated the analytical foundations for the formulation and adoption of Colombia’s Green Growth Policy (CONPES 3934 of 2018).

One of the strategic pillars of the Green Growth Policy focuses on promoting the sustainable use of natural capital. Within this pillar, the bioeconomy has been identified as a key strategy to accelerate the transition toward a low-carbon economy by generating value-added products, processes, and services based on the sustainable use of biodiversity and biomass. In this context, GGGI supported the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MinCiencias), the National Planning Department, and other stakeholders in the technical design and multi-stakeholder consultation process that led to the formulation of the National Bioeconomy Mission “Para una Colombia Potencia Viva y Diversa: hacia una sociedad impulsada por el conocimiento.”

Within the framework of the UK PACT (Partnering for Accelerated Climate Transitions) BioRural Project (2024–2027), the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), the Government of Antioquia, and the Caja de Compensación Familiar de Antioquia – COMFAMA signed Special Cooperation Agreement No. 4600019054 to implement the initiative “Antioquia BioCompetitiva.” This project aims to accelerate the scaling of innovative bioeconomy solutions in the Department of Antioquia through two main components:

1. Promoting knowledge transfer and capacity-building processes, with a focus on circular bioeconomy and the internationalization of bioproducts.

2. Strengthening productive, technological, and commercial capacities within the department through an integrated value-chain development approach.

Within this framework, GGGI is recruiting a Green Growth Project Assistant Consultant to provide coordination and technical support for the implementation of GGGI’s UK PACT bioeconomy projects in Colombia.

Objectives of the assignment

The primary role of the Project Assistant Consultant is to support the project team in the timely delivery and quality assurance of outputs and activities under the UK PACT Bioeconomy projects implemented in Antioquia. The Project Assistant Consultant will contribute to the effective implementation of project activities by supporting coordination, technical inputs, and operational processes that ensure the smooth execution of the projects.

The Project Assistant Consultant will assist the project team in areas such as data compilation and analysis, impact measurement, case study development and dissemination, preparation of meetings with counterparts, and organization of workshops and events, as well as other operational and administrative tasks required for project implementation.

The role will contribute to the effective execution of project activities in close coordination with the GGGI Colombia administrative team and in collaboration with relevant stakeholders at the subnational level, particularly in the Department of Antioquia.

As a member of the project team, the Project Assistant Consultant will have the opportunity to contribute to the implementation of GGGI’s UK PACT programs in Colombia. Responsibilities will include supporting the preparation of program documentation and resource mobilization materials, developing communication and knowledge-sharing products, conducting desk research, and assisting in the organization of national events and workshops. The role will also involve liaison with technical ministries and other stakeholders in the bioeconomy sector, offering valuable opportunities for professional development and stakeholder engagement.

Additionally, the Project Assistant Consultant will support data collection and monitoring activities related to project implementation, strengthening their analytical, research, and project management skills.

Specific Objectives

In particular, the Project Assistant Consultant will support the implementation of GGGI’s UK PACT Bio Rural and the Antioquia BioCompetitiva Projects. This includes contributing to the preparation of program and resource mobilization materials (e.g., presentations, investment teasers, and pitch decks), development of communication and knowledge-sharing products, desk research, and logistical support for the organization of national and regional events.

Additionally, the Project Assistant Consultant will support coordination and liaison with technical authorities, partner institutions, and other key stakeholders in the bioeconomy sector, with a particular focus on stakeholders in the Department of Antioquia.

The Project Assistant Consultant will support the activities implemented under the Bio Rural and the Antioquia BioCompetitiva Projects, contributing to data management, spatial analysis, technical research, and operational coordination. The role will also involve supporting the preparation of meetings, communications materials, and logistical arrangements for project activities.

The assignment includes, but is not limited to, the following tasks:

CO048 Project – Antioquia BioCompetitiva

• Support the design and organization of theoretical and practical knowledge exchanges on circular bioeconomy models, particularly those related to the valorization and productive use of organic and agricultural residues.

• Assist in the design and implementation of methodologies for the characterization of priority agricultural and forestry crops in Antioquia.

• Support the characterization of biomass generated from at least four (4) prioritized crops, including the identification of potential value-added uses that promote circular bioeconomy opportunities.

• Support the management and systematization of information integrated into databases related to green businesses and companies with potential to scale biodiversity-based enterprises in Antioquia, contributing to improved market enabling conditions.

• Contribute to the monitoring and technical follow-up of companies participating in the “Accelerate Micro Bioeconomy Companies in Antioquia” program.

• Support the monitoring and technical assistance activities of the “Scale Investment Bioeconomy Companies in Antioquia” program.

• Assist in the implementation and coordination of the MAPBIO+ Antioquia Edition cohort, ensuring alignment with the requirements of the Government of Antioquia.

• Support the design and implementation of surveys or other monitoring tools to identify milestones, assess the impact of bioeconomy programs, and track the results of technical assistance provided.

• Assist in the review and refinement of bioeconomy case studies documenting project results and lessons learned.

Cross-Cutting Activities

• Prepare PowerPoint presentations, concept notes, and briefing materials as requested by senior team members.

• Maintain coordination and communication with bioeconomy project teams and external partners involved in project implementation.

• Support the development of communication, outreach, and knowledge products highlighting GGGI’s experience and results in promoting bioeconomy and green growth.

• Participate in project-related meetings and calls, and prepare meeting agendas, minutes, and supporting documentation.

• Support the organization and coordination of capacity-building activities, including workshops, webinars, and events (both virtual and in-person) with partners across Colombia.

• Provide technical inputs for project reporting by supporting the Sustainable Finance Officer in Colombia in compiling technical information, evidence, and documentation required for donor and GGGI reporting.

• Contribute to ensuring the quality, consistency, and completeness of narrative and technical evidence used in donor reports and internal GGGI reporting processes.

Deliverables, timeline, and payments

Reporting Arrangements

The Consultancy reports to the Sustainable Finance Officer, under the technical guidance provided by the Sustainable Landscapes Officer. The consultant's work progress will be monitored primarily through periodic review meetings for planning and monthly short face-to-face (or virtual) meetings for prioritizing activities, all that previous consensus with the Contract Supervisor. In this review, meetings will tackle subjects such as the overview of the contractual objectives, the development of activities, detailed information milestones, actual achievements made against the timeline initially set, and any other relevant progress details.

All Deliverables will be produced in Spanish, by GGGI's formatting requirements, and submitted with proof of editable file back-up (e.g., .docx, .pptx) in the GGGI SharePoint system. Additionally, the consultant will deliver one monthly brief in English explaining the activities developed the month before and for any other deliverable, if so requested by the Project Manager. Where relevant, the consultant shall also provide raw data sets, research materials, and meeting notes related to the contractual objective.

Suggested methodology and competence requirements

• The consultant should follow the specific methods provided by the Contract Supervisor, the Sustainable Finance Officer.

• The consultant will best use both primary and secondary sources of information to develop activities defined under the contract objective.

• The consultant will be responsible for providing transparent financial information regarding expenses incurred for conducting field visits, orientation meetings, webinars, or workshops.

• (Mandatory) Bachelor’s degree in Agroindustrial Engineering, Agronomic Engineering, Forestry Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Biology, or Animal Science (Zootechnics).

• Desirable complementary training in areas such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Rural Development, Project Management, Agroindustrial Marketing, Logistics, or Agricultural Value Chains.

• Working knowledge of English, with the ability to read and understand technical documents.

• (Mandatory) At least four (4) years of professional experience in roles related to at least two of the following areas:

  • Agroindustrial value chains and innovation,

  • Rural productive development,

  • Commercial scaling processes for agricultural or bio-based products,

  • Market analysis or agricultural supply and demand studies,

  • Technical support and advisory services to producers, associations, or companies

• Demonstrable experience of at least one (1) year in activities such as:Ability to establish and maintain professional relationships with suppliers, distributors, and other stakeholders in the agricultural and bioeconomy sectors.

  • Basic biomass or agricultural by-product characterization studies,

  • Identification of alternative uses of agricultural biomass (e.g., food products, bioinputs, bioproducts, bioenergy, etc.),

  • Preparation of technical monitoring reports or MEL (Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning) documentation.

• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.

• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.

• Ability to work under pressure and adapt flexibly to evolving project needs and priorities.

• Willingness and availability for occasional travels to rural areas in Colombia.

• Selection method / process: Open Competition.

• Timeline of the selection: Consulting start April 27.

Date to close is Korean Standard Time (KST). Applications submitted after the deadline will not be considered Application. CV must be sent in English. A consortium, or a firm may not be engaged for the individual consultant assignment.

GGGI as an institution abides by its project-level Sustainability and Safeguards Rules (SSR) for all projects aligned with international standards for Environmental and Social Safeguards. The SSR is aligned with commonly recognized international standards for Environmental and Social Safeguards (ESS), i.e. the WB Performance Standard, that ensure project level safeguarding of communities and people impacted by GGGI activities. GGGI has integrated project level Environmental and Social Safeguards into its Project Cycle Management (PCM) with mandatory Preliminary Gender and Social Assessments and ESS Screening of all projects to identify and manage risks.

In addition, GGGI's Gender Equality and Social Inclusion Strategy 2021-2025 provides a framework toward achieving the principle of "Leaving No One Behind" in the transformation towards green growth, guiding GGGI's approaches to the mainstreaming of gender equality and poverty reduction in GGGI Colombia's Program. This also includes the implementation of the GGGI Gender Equality and Poverty Reduction Policy Markers on all projects. GGGI's Corporate Results Framework requires gender disaggregated indicators for participation in GGGI Capacity Building events.

GGGI's Child Protection Rules and GGGI Rules on Sexual Exploitation ensure safeguarding of children impacted by GGGI activities or in contact with GGGI contracted personnel, with GGGI taking a zero-tolerance approach to child exploitation. GGGI is committed to child protection, irrespective of whether any specific area of work involves direct contact with children. GGGI's Child Protection Policy is written in accordance with the Convention on the Rights of the Child. All procedures mentioned above are accompanied by guidelines and capacity building efforts. GGGI also provides a work environment that reflects the values of gender equality, teamwork, embracing diversity in all its forms, integrity and a healthy balance of work and life. We are committed to maintaining our balanced gender distribution and therefore encourage women to apply. GGGI promotes equal opportunities for all including persons with disabilities.

All GGGI's policies are available for open consultation under the following link: https://gggi.org/policy-documents/

GGGI is committed to apply transparency and accountability in its decisions and actions, and to practice integrity in all aspects of its operations. GGGI’s anti-corruption policy establishes zero tolerance for corruption and fraudulent, coercive, and collusive practices in GGGI’s operations. The whistleblowing policy is available at the following link https://gggi.org/site/assets/uploads/2017/11/Whistleblower-Policy_02072015.pdf

In addition, all GGGI’s policies are available for open consultation under the following link: https://gggi.org/policy-documents/

Lastly, within the framework of UK PACT Colombia's projects with GGGI and their respective activities, the following reporting channels from FCDO (UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office) are available to GGGI suppliers and consultants:

• reportingconcerns@fcdo.gov.uk: to report any case of fraud or theft (whether proven or suspected).

• reportingconcerns@fcdo.gov.uk: to report any credible suspicions of or actual incidents of sexual exploitation, abuse, or harassment related.

Child protection – GGGI is committed to child protection, irrespective of whether any specific area of work involves direct contact with children. GGGI’s Child Protection Policy is written in accordance with the Convention on the Rights of the Child.