Voluntary management jobs with Projects Abroad Pro

The business world

We are looking for recent graduates, retired seniors or managers, IT specialists and businesspeople on a career break to take part in voluntary management jobs with Projects Abroad Pro. In order to ensure high standards we have listed a set of desired qualifications for each available post. Ideally, anyone interested in business development abroad would also possess at least two years’ experience of managing or working in a business environment.

Projects Abroad Pro offer placements with businesses throughout the developing world, ranging from complex organisations in high-rise tower blocks to more modest start-up companies in need of professional advice. We believe that rather than simply providing foreign aid and investment, the best way for developing nations to get themselves out of poverty is to grow their own businesses. These countries are looking to raise standards of living and education by growing their economy, resulting in more jobs and more money to spend on facilities and infrastructure. Volunteers with a skill or qualification can play an important role in this process, offering advice to many of the companies we work with who are looking to expand from local operations to entering the global marketplace. Given the potential ramifications of the 2008 ‘Credit Crunch’, it is now more important than ever that small companies and entrepreneurs receive input from experienced professionals so that they can continue to grow. You will have the chance to offer marketing advice to young entrepreneurs, assess the management structures of larger businesses or even oversee the design and implementation of IT systems and websites. Given the wide range of businesses that we work with, you can be placed where you believe you will have the greatest impact, ensuring that you will not only have an incredible experience, but also make a difference.

Volunteer jobs in developing countries

We see our projects as being a two-way process where you will gain just as much from the experience of these volunteer jobs in developing countries as the people you are helping. It is a fact that as an experienced, qualified professional you will meet less experienced individuals who need you help and guidance to improve their standards. This process in itself can be both challenging and incredibly rewarding – it is the best way of ensuring that the work you do will be continued in the long-term. On the other hand, you are sure to meet experienced professionals in your industry who share your attitude, commitment and knowledge and are keen to offer advice for coping with the frustrations of the developing world. These people will want to discuss new ideas and share their expertise as well as looking for every opportunity to work with you to develop plans for the future. It is this peer to peer contact that makes our projects so special and ensures that your experience will be both professionally and personally fulfilling.

"For me, the challenge was to assess a young software development company and make recommendations to improve the management processes and increase market share. Previously I had worked in a large multinational, but now I had to operate without the vast resources that I had become accustomed to. However, what I could depend upon was the enthusiasm and hospitality of my Mongolian colleagues. Their willingness to learn, accept change and take risks to grow their business should serve as an inspiration to many Western managers."
Ian Bromage - Business Project volunteer in Mongolia

Skilled volunteers and our business development abroad

There are numerous examples of business development abroad on offer for skilled volunteers and you can access detailed descriptions of each post by clicking on the links at the top of the page. You can work with businesses in China, Mongolia, Romania and South Africa.

Even if you feel you do not possess the required skills or qualifications for these specialist roles, you can still help on the same projects. Please visit our website for more information about volunteer business placements with Projects Abroad.