Business Development Advisor (PNG 42005)
ICT
Closing date: 1/15/2026
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If you’re an experienced Business Development Advisor, looking for an extraordinary overseas experience in the Pacific to build into your field of expertise – working collaboratively with the University of Natural Resources and Environment (UNRE) then read on, as we have an exciting opportunity in store for you! Volunteering with VSA Volunteer Service Abroad (VSA) is not your typical volunteering agency, we are committed to building sustainable communities across the Pacific.
Our Partner Organisation - University of Natural Resources and Environment (UNRE). The Papua New Guinea University of Natural Resources and Environment (UNRE) is a public university in East New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea.
UNRE focuses on education and research in agriculture, forestry, fisheries, environmental science, and related fields. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes that emphasize sustainable resource management, conservation, and environmental protection.
The university is committed to sustainable development in Papua New Guinea and the Pacific region. Its research tackles local and regional environmental challenges such as deforestation, biodiversity loss, and climate change.
UNRE also works with local communities, government agencies, and non-profits to promote sustainable practices.
It plays a vital role in advancing knowledge in natural resource management and environmental science in Papua New Guinea, contributing to the country's sustainable development and conservation efforts.
The Assignment - Business Development Advisor This assignment is a partnership assignment between VSA and the University of Natural Resources and Environment (UNRE).
In this assignment a VSA Volunteer will provide support to the University of Natural Resources and Environment (UNRE) in strengthening its capacity and capability to broaden its revenue generation through the successful establishment and operation of a business arm, enabling the university to achieve financial sustainability, better support its mission, and achieve its strategic goals.
The Volunteer Are you someone who wants to make a difference, have a sense of adventure and like the challenge of being outside your comfort zone? VSA Volunteers are technical experts who impart their skills and knowledge to the local community. You will need to be flexible, adaptable, resourceful, resilient with a passion for Aotearoa and the wider Pacific community. We're looking for a volunteer with the following: • A qualification or degree in Business, Commerce, or related field. • Experience in business development, preferably in the academic or research sector. • Strong knowledge of business development strategies and techniques.
• Experience in developing and implementing business plans and feasibility studies.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work well independently and in a team.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and project management skills.
Desirable:
• Experience working in developing countries.
The Country
Most people living in Papua New Guinea (PNG) are Melanesian, but some are Micronesian or Polynesian. PNG has over 800 known languages although there are three official languages: Tok Pisin, English, and Hiri Motu. Numerous indigenous languages are still used by people from a society that ranges from traditional village-based life to modern urban living.
Underlying the Papua New Guinean culture is the wantok system. Wantok, or ‘one talk’, refers to the people who speak your language or your extended family/clan; a Papua New Guinean’s primary loyalty will be to their wantok.
The country is predominately Christian, with indigenous faith and spirituality still important to many locals.
The people of Papua New Guinea are famously warm and hospitable and the isolated mountain ranges are often home to unique fauna and flora found nowhere else in the world.
Apply Now!Apply for this amazing opportunity through our website. For more information on this assignment, email volunteer@vsa.org.nz.
What’s included
Included when you join us
VSA organises and fully funds return economy-class international flights between New Zealand and your host country, plus any approved domestic travel connected to your assignment.
You’re covered under VSA’s comprehensive travel and medical insurance policy, which also includes emergency evacuation and personal belongings coverage. Before departure, you’ll receive full information on what’s covered and how to access support.
VSA arranges and funds safe, furnished accommodation throughout your assignment, whether you're in a capital or rural location. A housing checklist ensures your needs are met for comfort and security.
You’ll receive a modest monthly living allowance, paid into a local bank account, designed to cover essentials like food, transport, and utilities. This is in line with VSA’s cost-of-living support for volunteers.
Before you leave, VSA provides a multi-day residential briefing in Wellington, fully funded by VSA. This includes cultural orientation, language training, health and safety guidelines, and logistical preparation to get you deployment-ready
From your first day on assignment, you’ll have strong in-country support from VSA staff, Programme Managers and Coordinators, who provide orientation, security briefings, pastoral care, and ongoing assistance throughout your placement.
Preparation
How to prepare?
Be prepared for a comprehensive recruitment journey. This includes initial screening, background checks, and two interviews, one of which is a panel interview with a subject matter expert. Only after successfully completing these steps will you receive a provisional offer and begin the onboarding process. It’s essential to wait for VSA’s confirmation before making significant life changes, such as resigning from your job or selling property, as there may be delays in immigration or medical clearances.
Once accepted, you'll be invited to attend a multi-day residential briefing in Wellington. This course equips you with tools for success, covering cultural orientation, safety protocols, health preparation, and assignment logistics. It’s also a great opportunity to connect with other outgoing volunteers.
Volunteering abroad can be both deeply rewarding and personally challenging. Conditions may be unfamiliar, and change is often constant. Bring flexibility, a sense of humour, and a willingness to learn from others, you’ll grow alongside the community you’re there to support.
You’ll need to complete a health screening and ensure all required vaccinations are up to date. VSA provides medical and travel insurance, but you are also responsible for managing your day-to-day wellbeing. Think about how you'll maintain mental and physical health while overseas.
VSA asks volunteers to become ambassadors for the kaupapa. You will be asked to fundraise $1,000 to support the programme and raise awareness about your assignment. We provide resources and guidance to help you share your story and connect your networks with the impact of your work.
The platform we ask you to use is Raisely.
From visa applications to police checks and health forms, there are a few critical administrative tasks before departure. Our team will guide you through the steps to make sure everything is completed on time and with ease.
