Program Manager

Job Posting Organization:
CIMMYT is a cutting-edge, non-profit, international organization dedicated to solving tomorrow’s problems today. Established to enhance the quantity, quality, and dependability of production systems and basic cereals such as maize, wheat, triticale, sorghum, millets, and associated crops, CIMMYT focuses on applied agricultural science, particularly in the Global South. The organization builds strong partnerships to improve the livelihood trajectories and resilience of millions of resource-poor farmers, working towards a more productive, inclusive, and resilient agrifood system within planetary boundaries. As a core CGIAR Research Center, CIMMYT is part of a global research partnership aimed at achieving a food-secure future, dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing nutrition" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food and nutrition security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and improving natural resources. For more information, visit cimmyt.org.

Job Overview:
The Program Manager position at CIMMYT is designed for a dynamic, self-motivated, and service-oriented professional who will play a crucial role in aligning the program project portfolio with CIMMYT’s strategic objectives and impact areas. The role involves ensuring that program project planning and execution are in accordance with organizational policies and procedures. The Program Manager will be responsible for developing, tracking, and reporting on program portfolio management foresight, which includes financial and future capabilities. This position requires a comprehensive understanding of the full project lifecycle, from design to close-out, and the ability to serve as a resource for knowledge within the program. The Program Manager will also ensure compliance with donor requirements and reporting standards, providing administrative leadership for the planning, coordination, and delivery of program portfolio activities. Collaboration across multidisciplinary teams and effective communication of key milestones that enhance CIMMYT’s visibility are also essential functions of this role.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Program Manager will have a wide range of responsibilities, including but not limited to: mapping the program project portfolio alignment with CIMMYT’s strategy and objectives; ensuring program project portfolio planning and execution align with organizational policies; developing and tracking program portfolio management foresight; managing the full project lifecycle including design, implementation, and reporting; ensuring compliance with donor requirements; providing administrative leadership for program activities; monitoring budgets and financial performance; anticipating risks and maintaining a program-level risk register; facilitating collaboration across multidisciplinary teams; serving as the focal point for Operations and Engagement Chapters; coordinating communications of key milestones; and supporting evaluations, audits, and continuous improvement efforts.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in agriculture, Business, Public Administration, or a related field, or equivalent qualifications such as being a Certified Project Manager. Additionally, candidates should have over 10 years of professional experience in financial management, planning, and forecasting, with a preference for experience in non-profit organizations. Advanced knowledge of program, portfolio, and project management principles is essential, along with advanced strategic thinking capabilities and an understanding of linkages with agricultural food systems and sustainable development. Computer literacy and proficiency in common software packages are also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in agriculture, Business, Public Administration, or a related field. Alternatively, candidates may hold equivalent qualifications such as a Certified Project Manager. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of program management within the agricultural sector.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of overall professional experience, particularly in financial management, planning, and forecasting. Candidates should have experience leading divisions or programs within large multinational companies, with a preference for those who have worked in non-profit organizations. This level of experience is necessary to effectively manage the diverse responsibilities associated with the Program Manager role.

Languages:
Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English are mandatory for this position. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in English, with a minimum score of C1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) being required. While English is the primary language for communication, knowledge of additional languages may be beneficial but is not specified as mandatory.

Additional Notes:
CIMMYT offers an attractive remuneration package that includes support for continuous professional development. In addition to the provisions of the Mexican Labor Law, the benefits package includes a year-end bonus equivalent to 40 days of salary, a vacation premium of 56%, life and medical insurance, supermarket coupons, a savings fund, and social benefits in accordance with Mexican regulations (IMSS, SAR / Infonavit). The position is based at CIMMYT headquarters in Texcoco, near Mexico City.