Individual Consultant to provide strategic industry insight, guide business engagement, and mobilize resources

Job Posting Organization:
The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) is a global research organization dedicated to providing evidence-based solutions for ending hunger and poverty. Established in 1975, IFPRI operates in over 40 countries and employs more than 300 staff members, including researchers, policy analysts, and support staff. The organization focuses on improving food systems and agricultural policies through rigorous research and partnerships with various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and the private sector. IFPRI's mission is to provide policy solutions that promote sustainable security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and improve nutrition worldwide, particularly in developing countries.

Job Overview:
The role of the Individual Consultant is pivotal in providing strategic industry insight and guiding business engagement within China's food and agriculture system, particularly in the rapidly evolving protein-related sectors. The consultant will be responsible for mobilizing resources to support the growth of the program, which includes shaping partnership architectures and securing funding from various sources such as foundations and businesses. This position requires a nearly full-time commitment, with a minimum of four days per week, and the initial contract will extend until December 31, 2026, with potential for renewal. The consultant will be expected to demonstrate strategic clarity, relationship leadership, proactive problem-solving, creativity, curiosity, maturity, and collaboration in their work.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will lead the design and delivery of business-facing workstreams that translate research into actionable packages, such as procurement guidance and implementation toolkits. They will drive the conversion from engagement to action by enabling shifts in company decisions and processes. The consultant will generate industry insights on various sectors, track market signals, and synthesize company pain points to inform project design and business engagement priorities. They will also support cross-team project delivery, resource mobilization, and external engagement, particularly with corporate CSR and sustainability teams. Additionally, the consultant will be responsible for leading strategic business outreach and convening key conferences and workshops to foster collaboration.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in business administration, marketing, project management, international development, environmental studies, or a related field. A minimum of 8 years of experience in agri-food, corporate strategy, consulting, sustainability, or other business-facing sectors is required. A strong understanding of the agrifood sector and value chains is essential, along with demonstrated experience in initiating or delivering business-relevant engagement and cross-sector projects. Candidates should have the ability to execute projects on schedule and budget while complying with donor partner policies. Excellent analytical, communication, presentation, and strategic thinking skills are also necessary.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields such as business administration, marketing, project management, international development, or environmental studies. Advanced degrees may be preferred but are not explicitly stated as a requirement.

Experience:
The position requires at least 8 years of relevant experience in sectors such as agri-food, corporate strategy, consulting, or sustainability. Candidates should have a proven track record of engaging with businesses and delivering projects that are relevant to the industry.

Languages:
Fluency in both Chinese and English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not specified as a requirement.

Additional Notes:
The initial contract for this consultancy role will run until December 31, 2026, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and program needs. The position requires a nearly full-time commitment, with a minimum of four days per week. The consultant will be expected to work collaboratively with various stakeholders and contribute to a positive team culture. Compensation details, including the proposed daily rate, should be included in the application.