Program Manager, Genetics Resources Program

Job Posting Organization:
CIMMYT is a cutting-edge, non-profit, international organization dedicated to solving tomorrow’s problems today. Established with the mission to improve 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 enhance the livelihood trajectories and resilience of millions of resource-poor farmers while 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 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. The organization operates in multiple countries and employs a diverse workforce committed to agricultural innovation and sustainability. For more information, visit their website.

Job Overview:
The Program Manager for the Genetic Resources Program at CIMMYT is a dynamic role that requires a results-oriented individual with strong leadership skills. The primary responsibility of the Program Manager is to ensure effective planning, implementation, and oversight of the program project portfolio, ensuring alignment with CIMMYT’s strategic goals, donor requirements, and institutional competencies. This position integrates monitoring and support for execution to drive impact, collaboration, and continuous improvement. The Program Manager will play a crucial role in mapping the program project portfolio to CIMMYT’s strategy, ensuring compliance with organizational policies, and managing the full project lifecycle from design to close-out. The role also involves administrative leadership and management of program activities, financial performance monitoring, risk management, and facilitating collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Program Manager include:

• Mapping the program project portfolio to ensure alignment with CIMMYT’s strategy, impact areas, and primary objectives.
• Planning and executing the program project portfolio in accordance with organizational policies and procedures.
• Developing, tracking, and reporting on program portfolio management foresight, including financial and future capabilities.
• Coordinating the full project lifecycle, including design, kick-off, implementation, reporting, and close-out, serving as a resource for the Program.
• Ensuring compliance with donor requirements and reporting standards.
• Providing administrative leadership for planning, coordination, and delivery of program activities.
• Monitoring budgets, forecasts, and financial performance at the program portfolio level in collaboration with Program Finance Management.
• Anticipating risks and maintaining a program-level risk register while applying structured problem-solving approaches.
• Facilitating collaboration across multidisciplinary teams and serving as the focal point for Operations and Engagement Chapters. 1
• Supporting evaluations, audits, and continuous improvement efforts. 1
• Performing any additional duties assigned by the Program Director.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Program Manager position include:

• A Master’s degree in agriculture, Business, Public Administration, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Certification as a project manager with at least 10 years of demonstrated experience in project or program management.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in financial management, programming, and forecasting, preferably in a large multinational company or non-profit organization.
• Advanced knowledge of program, portfolio, and project management principles and operating protocols.
• Strong strategic thinking skills, with the ability to identify and develop new approaches and methodologies.
• Understanding of linkages with other disciplines related to agricultural food systems and sustainable development.
• Proficiency in common software packages and computer literacy.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in agriculture, Business, Public Administration, or a related field. Equivalent experience may also be considered.

Experience:
The position requires at least 10 years of experience in project or program management, with a strong emphasis on financial management, programming, and forecasting. Experience in running a division or program at large multinational companies is preferred, particularly within non-profit organizations.

Languages:
While the job posting does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the international nature of CIMMYT's work. Additional languages relevant to the regions of operation may be beneficial.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package and support for continuous professional development. In addition to the provisions of Mexican Labor Law, benefits include a year-end bonus (40 days), vacation premium (56%), life and medical insurance, supermarket coupons, a savings fund, and social benefits (IMSS, SAR / Infonavit). It is important to note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted, and foreign national candidates must have legal documents to work in Mexico. The position will remain open until filled, and CIMMYT is committed to fostering a multicultural work environment that values gender equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity.