Operations Task Force Requisition

Job Posting Organization:
The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) is a prominent research organization established to provide evidence-based solutions to reduce poverty and end hunger and malnutrition. With a workforce of approximately 500 employees, IFPRI operates from its headquarters in Washington DC, and has regional offices in India and Senegal, along with several country offices across Asia and Africa. The organization is dedicated to conducting high-quality research and providing policy solutions that enhance security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and improve nutrition globally. IFPRI's mission is to promote sustainable food systems and empower communities through research and innovation, making it a key player in the global fight against hunger and poverty.

Job Overview:
The Operations Task Force Requisition is focused on reviewing and updating the organizational structure of IFPRI, particularly concerning corporate services and research support staff. The primary objective of this role is to ensure that the organizational structure aligns with current operational needs and future goals, thereby enhancing efficiency across corporate services and research support functions. The position involves a comprehensive assessment of the existing organizational framework, identifying areas for improvement, and developing a modified or new structure if necessary. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure that the changes are implemented smoothly and with minimal disruption to ongoing operations. The successful candidate will be expected to provide clear communication and training to staff regarding any changes made to the organizational structure, ensuring that all employees are informed and prepared for the transition. This position is critical in streamlining operations across all of IFPRI's offices, optimizing resource allocation, fostering collaboration, and supporting the organization's strategic objectives through improved operational efficiency.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities associated with this position include conducting interviews with key stakeholders and staff to gather insights on the current organizational structure. The candidate will review existing organizational charts, roles, and responsibilities, and analyze the effectiveness of current workflows and reporting lines for non-research staff. In the planning phase, the individual will develop recommendations for structural improvements, including optimal staffing for corporate service units and financial and administrative support to research units. They will design a modified organizational structure if needed, aligning it with strategic goals, and create a detailed implementation plan with timelines and milestones. The candidate will be responsible for delivering weekly progress reports to stakeholders, a comprehensive assessment report of the current organizational structure, and insights from a peer organization analysis of similar international research organizations. Additionally, they will provide recommendations for structural improvements and a final project report that complements the detailed outputs discussed during the contracting phase.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess proven organizational design and change management experience, particularly in leading structural reviews and redesigns for medium-to-large international organizations. Experience with research organizations or mission-driven nonprofits is essential, as is an understanding of how corporate services and research support functions interact across various functions and with research staff in global research settings. The candidate should have expertise in workforce planning and role rationalization, with the ability to assess staffing levels, clarify roles, and update Terms of Reference. Strong analytical and assessment skills are required, along with expertise in corporate services and research support functions, including familiarity with HR, finance, fundraising, grants management, operations, and research administration. The candidate must demonstrate strategic planning and implementation capability, with excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills to work effectively across diverse contexts and cultures.

Educational Background:
While the specific educational background is not explicitly stated, it is implied that candidates should have a relevant degree in organizational management, business administration, or a related field that supports the skills and qualifications required for this position. Advanced degrees or certifications in organizational design, change management, or related disciplines would be advantageous.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in organizational design and change management, particularly within international organizations. Candidates should have a track record of leading structural reviews and redesigns, ideally within research organizations or mission-driven nonprofits. Experience in workforce planning, role rationalization, and familiarity with donor-funded research environments is also essential. Cross-cultural experience across Africa, Asia, and the U.S. is beneficial for conducting stakeholder interviews and implementing changes across global offices.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the international nature of the organization and the need for clear communication across diverse teams. Additional language skills relevant to the regions where IFPRI operates, such as French or local languages from Asia and Africa, would be advantageous but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The project is expected to last for a duration of 2 months, from June to September 202

• The position can be filled by either an individual or a firm, and applicants are required to submit a 1–2-page Expression of Interest (EOI) that outlines their qualifications and approach to the project, along with an estimated timeline. Additionally, an estimated budget for firms or a daily rate for individuals, as well as relevant CVs for the applicant or key team members, should be provided. This role is critical for ensuring that IFPRI's operations are streamlined and aligned with its strategic objectives, and it offers an opportunity to make a significant impact on the organization's effectiveness.