Director, Dryland Crops Program (DCP)
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
CIMMYT (International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center) is a non-profit, international organization established to address global agricultural challenges. Founded in 1966, CIMMYT focuses on improving the quantity, quality, and reliability of production systems for staple crops such as maize and wheat. With a workforce of approximately 1,500 employees, CIMMYT operates in over 80 countries, collaborating with numerous partners to enhance the livelihoods of resource-poor farmers and contribute to sustainable agrifood systems. The organization is part of the CGIAR network, which is dedicated to delivering scientific solutions for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and agricultural sustainability. For more information, visit cimmyt.org.
Job Overview:
The Director of the Dryland Crops Program (DCP) at CIMMYT will lead a globally recognized initiative aimed at enhancing resilient agricultural systems in dryland regions. This role requires a visionary leader who can integrate scientific research with practical applications to improve food security and sustainable agricultural practices. The Director will be responsible for shaping the strategic direction of the program, ensuring its scientific agenda aligns with the needs of dryland farming systems, and translating scientific innovations into impactful outcomes for farmers. The position involves building strategic partnerships, mobilizing resources, and representing CIMMYT in international forums to advocate for resilient agricultural practices. The Director will also oversee a diverse team, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement while driving the program's growth and impact.
Duties and Responsibilities:
The Director will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:
Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess 10-15+ years of progressive leadership experience in senior scientific, programmatic, or executive roles within international agricultural research or innovation organizations. A PhD in Agronomy, Plant Science, Crop Science, Rural Development, or a related field relevant to dryland agricultural systems is required. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of leading complex, multidisciplinary programs across multiple countries, successfully translating scientific innovations into sustainable development outcomes. Strong experience in building strategic partnerships and mobilizing resources from various stakeholders, including bilateral and multilateral donors, is essential. A deep understanding of agricultural development challenges in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in dryland systems, is crucial. Exceptional communication and stakeholder engagement skills are necessary, along with a collaborative leadership style that fosters diverse teams and equitable partnerships.
Educational Background:
A PhD in Agronomy, Plant Science, Crop Science, Rural Development, or a related field is required for this position. This advanced degree should be relevant to the challenges and opportunities within dryland agricultural systems, equipping the candidate with the necessary scientific knowledge and research capabilities to lead the program effectively.
Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 10-15 years of progressive leadership experience in senior roles within international agricultural research or innovation organizations. This experience should include managing complex programs that operate across multiple countries and involve diverse partners, demonstrating the ability to translate scientific research into practical, impactful outcomes.
Languages:
Excellent written and spoken English communication skills are mandatory for this position. Proficiency in French is considered a significant asset, particularly due to the program's engagement across West Africa, where French is widely spoken. The ability to communicate effectively in both languages will enhance collaboration with local partners and stakeholders.
Additional Notes:
The position is offered as a three-year, fixed-term contract, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability. CIMMYT is committed to providing a competitive international remuneration package, which includes housing support, health and life insurance, educational assistance for dependent children, annual home travel, retirement benefits, and relocation support. The organization values diversity and encourages qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply, with a particular emphasis on encouraging female candidates to submit their applications.
CIMMYT (International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center) is a non-profit, international organization established to address global agricultural challenges. Founded in 1966, CIMMYT focuses on improving the quantity, quality, and reliability of production systems for staple crops such as maize and wheat. With a workforce of approximately 1,500 employees, CIMMYT operates in over 80 countries, collaborating with numerous partners to enhance the livelihoods of resource-poor farmers and contribute to sustainable agrifood systems. The organization is part of the CGIAR network, which is dedicated to delivering scientific solutions for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and agricultural sustainability. For more information, visit cimmyt.org.
Job Overview:
The Director of the Dryland Crops Program (DCP) at CIMMYT will lead a globally recognized initiative aimed at enhancing resilient agricultural systems in dryland regions. This role requires a visionary leader who can integrate scientific research with practical applications to improve food security and sustainable agricultural practices. The Director will be responsible for shaping the strategic direction of the program, ensuring its scientific agenda aligns with the needs of dryland farming systems, and translating scientific innovations into impactful outcomes for farmers. The position involves building strategic partnerships, mobilizing resources, and representing CIMMYT in international forums to advocate for resilient agricultural practices. The Director will also oversee a diverse team, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement while driving the program's growth and impact.
Duties and Responsibilities:
The Director will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:
- Leading the strategic direction of the Dryland Crops Program, ensuring alignment with CIMMYT's mission and the evolving needs of dryland agricultural systems.
- Translating scientific research into practical applications that enhance farmer adoption and resilience.
- Building and strengthening partnerships with research institutions, governments, and private-sector actors to foster innovation and sustainable impact.
- Representing CIMMYT in regional and international forums, influencing investment priorities and shaping agendas for dryland agriculture.
- Leading resource mobilization efforts to secure funding for program initiatives and enhance CIMMYT's reach and sustainability.
- Inspiring and developing a high-performing, multidisciplinary team, promoting collaboration and accountability.
- Ensuring effective organizational alignment and delivery of strategic priorities across programs and functions.
- Driving organizational learning and culture change to enhance institutional capability and impact.
Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess 10-15+ years of progressive leadership experience in senior scientific, programmatic, or executive roles within international agricultural research or innovation organizations. A PhD in Agronomy, Plant Science, Crop Science, Rural Development, or a related field relevant to dryland agricultural systems is required. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of leading complex, multidisciplinary programs across multiple countries, successfully translating scientific innovations into sustainable development outcomes. Strong experience in building strategic partnerships and mobilizing resources from various stakeholders, including bilateral and multilateral donors, is essential. A deep understanding of agricultural development challenges in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in dryland systems, is crucial. Exceptional communication and stakeholder engagement skills are necessary, along with a collaborative leadership style that fosters diverse teams and equitable partnerships.
Educational Background:
A PhD in Agronomy, Plant Science, Crop Science, Rural Development, or a related field is required for this position. This advanced degree should be relevant to the challenges and opportunities within dryland agricultural systems, equipping the candidate with the necessary scientific knowledge and research capabilities to lead the program effectively.
Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 10-15 years of progressive leadership experience in senior roles within international agricultural research or innovation organizations. This experience should include managing complex programs that operate across multiple countries and involve diverse partners, demonstrating the ability to translate scientific research into practical, impactful outcomes.
Languages:
Excellent written and spoken English communication skills are mandatory for this position. Proficiency in French is considered a significant asset, particularly due to the program's engagement across West Africa, where French is widely spoken. The ability to communicate effectively in both languages will enhance collaboration with local partners and stakeholders.
Additional Notes:
The position is offered as a three-year, fixed-term contract, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability. CIMMYT is committed to providing a competitive international remuneration package, which includes housing support, health and life insurance, educational assistance for dependent children, annual home travel, retirement benefits, and relocation support. The organization values diversity and encourages qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply, with a particular emphasis on encouraging female candidates to submit their applications.
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We are not liable for any decisions or actions taken by applicants in response to this job listing. By applying, you agree that all application processes, interviews, and potential job offers are managed exclusively by the listed employer or organization.
Beware of fraudulent job offers. Do not provide sensitive personal information or make any payments to secure a job.