Deputy Director, Agriculture, China Country Office

Job Posting Organization:
The organization is the largest nonprofit dedicated to combating poverty, disease, and inequity globally. It was founded on the principle that all individuals, regardless of their identity or circumstances, should have the opportunity to lead healthy and productive lives. The foundation emphasizes diversity among its employees to reflect the global populations it serves. It offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage without premiums, generous paid time off, paid family leave, retirement contributions, regional holidays, and opportunities for community engagement. The foundation is committed to fostering a workplace environment that supports both personal and professional growth.

Job Overview:
The director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Deputy Director, Agriculture, will be responsible for leading the strategy development and execution of the foundation’s agriculture portfolio in China, which includes crops, livestock, and aquaculture. This role involves developing and managing a portfolio of investments in agriculture to ensure measurable progress and coordinating relationships with various stakeholders, including grantees, contractors, government ministries, and academic institutions. The Deputy Director will provide strategic oversight, implementation guidance, and regular updates to foundation leadership. This position is part of the China Leadership Team and will work in a hybrid arrangement from the Beijing office.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Deputy Director will lead the development of the foundation’s agriculture strategy in China, ensuring alignment with global priorities. Responsibilities include analyzing the macro and policy environment in China, managing investment plans and budgets, engaging with government agencies on funding and research opportunities, providing strategic guidance for grants and contracts, and overseeing evaluation activities. The role also involves mentoring colleagues, managing partnerships and grantee relationships, conducting site visits, and serving as a spokesperson for the foundation on industry and government engagement priorities. The Deputy Director will manage a team, ensuring effective onboarding, performance management, and employee development.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in agriculture or a related field, along with over 10 years of senior-level experience in designing and leading large-scale agricultural programs. Strong technical expertise in agriculture R&D is essential, and an MBA or experience in a top-tier management consulting organization is a plus. Candidates should have experience in sourcing and negotiating deals in the agriculture sector, as well as a deep understanding of the policy landscape in China. Excellent relationship-building and communication skills, particularly in cross-cultural contexts, are crucial for success in this role.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in agriculture or a related field is required for this position. This educational background should provide the necessary technical expertise and understanding of agricultural systems and practices, which are critical for leading the foundation’s agricultural initiatives effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of senior-level experience in agricultural design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design and leadership. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing large-scale agricultural initiatives and possess strong technical expertise in agriculture research and development. Experience in sourcing partners and investment opportunities in the agriculture sector is also essential, particularly with a focus on biotechnology and AI.

Languages:
Proficiency in both English and Chinese (written and spoken) is mandatory for this position. This bilingual capability is crucial for effective communication with stakeholders in China and for engaging with the foundation's global teams.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Beijing and allows for a hybrid work arrangement. Candidates must be legally eligible to work in China without requiring visa sponsorship. The role may involve travel up to 30% domestically and internationally. The application deadline is set for June 3, 202

• The foundation emphasizes an inclusive hiring process and is committed to providing accommodations for candidates with disabilities or medical conditions.