Regional Director, Africa

Job Posting Organization:
CIMMYT, the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center, is a non-profit, international organization established to address global agricultural challenges. It focuses on improving the quantity, quality, and reliability of production systems for staple crops such as maize and wheat, particularly in the Global South. CIMMYT aims to enhance the livelihoods of resource-poor farmers and contribute to a more productive and resilient agrifood system. The organization operates in multiple countries, fostering partnerships to achieve its mission and has a strong commitment to agricultural science and innovation.

Job Overview:
The Regional Director, Africa, is a senior management position at CIMMYT responsible for leading and overseeing the organization's integrated portfolio across the African region. This role involves strategic leadership, representation, and ensuring alignment with CIMMYT's overall goals. The Regional Director will work closely with various senior leaders within CIMMYT to promote a unified institutional voice and foster collaboration across different chapters and functions. The position requires a strong focus on developing and promoting a diversified project portfolio, enhancing visibility of CIMMYT's activities, and ensuring compliance with organizational standards and policies. The Regional Director will also be responsible for strategic planning, partnership development, and resource mobilization efforts to support regional initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Regional Director include overseeing regional activities to ensure compliance with organizational policies and legal requirements, promoting a respectful work environment, and maintaining good working relationships among staff. The Regional Director will support the development of a diversified project portfolio, promote CIMMYT's projects at both country and regional levels, and enhance the visibility of CIMMYT's activities. Additionally, the role involves collaborating with leadership team colleagues to implement CIMMYT's 2030 strategy, developing regional strategies and plans, managing relationships with government ministries and partners, and leading resource mobilization efforts. The Regional Director will also oversee day-to-day administrative functions, supervise Country Representatives, facilitate issue resolution, and monitor and evaluate regional performance, providing regular reports to the Director General and other stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess 10-15+ years of distinguished experience in a senior management role within a nonprofit organization, foundation, private company, or government agency, with significant scientific leadership and executive management experience. A PhD in agriculture, natural resources management, development studies, or a related field is required, along with at least 15 years of progressively responsible leadership experience. Candidates should have experience in program, country, or regional management, and a global perspective grounded in international and developing country experience. A history of achieving exceptional outcomes and a cooperative, inclusive approach is essential, as well as the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities in a dynamic environment.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a PhD in agriculture, natural resources management, development studies, or a related field. This advanced degree should be complemented by extensive leadership experience in relevant fields, demonstrating a strong foundation in agricultural science and management.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of 10-15 years of distinguished experience in senior management roles, particularly in nonprofit organizations or similar sectors. Candidates should have a proven track record of scientific leadership and executive management, with experience in program, country, or regional management. A global perspective and a commitment to improving living standards in emerging economies are essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, with additional language proficiency considered desirable. Strong communication skills are essential for effective networking and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is initially fixed-term for three years, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability. CIMMYT offers an internationally competitive salary and benefits package, including housing allowance, car, comprehensive health and life insurance, assistance for children's education, paid vacation, annual home travel airfare, retirement plan contributions, and generous relocation assistance. Candidates must apply online and submit a CV with contact details for three work-related references, along with a cover letter. Incomplete applications will not be considered, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. CIMMYT is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and encourages women to apply.