Head of Talent Management

Job Posting Organization:
CIMMYT, the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center, is a non-profit, international organization established to address global agricultural challenges. Its mission is to improve the productivity and resilience of maize and wheat production systems, particularly in the Global South. CIMMYT works in partnership with various stakeholders to enhance the livelihoods of resource-poor farmers and promote sustainable agrifood systems. The organization operates in multiple countries, focusing on applied agricultural science and fostering strong partnerships to achieve its goals. For more information, visit cimmyt.org.

Job Overview:
The Head of Talent Management at CIMMYT is a pivotal leadership role responsible for shaping and executing the organization's global talent strategy. This position requires a visionary leader who can navigate complex, multicultural environments and drive innovative solutions in talent acquisition, development, and retention. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with senior leadership and HR teams to enhance talent management practices, ensuring alignment with CIMMYT's strategic objectives and fostering a strong organizational culture that supports the organization's long-term vision. The role encompasses overseeing all aspects of talent management, including performance management, succession planning, and employee development, while mentoring a high-performing team to achieve these goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Talent Acquisition & Workforce Planning: Develop and implement global talent acquisition strategies to attract diverse talent, ensuring alignment with CIMMYT’s values. Innovate recruitment practices to promote diversity and gender inclusion. Collaborate with HR teams to design effective workforce planning models.
• Performance & Talent Management: Oversee annual performance management processes, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives. Analyze talent metrics to inform decisions and drive action, focusing on succession planning and employee development.
• Career Development & Succession Planning: Design career development strategies that provide growth opportunities. Partner with leadership to define career pathways and implement succession planning strategies.
• Training & Development: Lead the design of training programs that foster employee development and engagement. Collaborate with external training providers to enhance global training offerings.
• Leadership & Team Development: Mentor and inspire the Talent Management team, ensuring effective execution of global strategies while being sensitive to local cultural needs.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in Human Resources, Organizational Development, International HR Management, Business Administration, or a related field. A minimum of 15 years of progressive HR experience in a global environment is required, with at least 8 years focused on talent management, learning and development, or organizational development. Proven experience in designing and managing comprehensive talent management programs is essential, along with a strong track record of leading and developing high-performing teams. Significant international experience is preferred, ideally with exposure to various cultures and working in the non-profit or NGO sectors. Candidates should demonstrate strong strategic thinking abilities and exceptional interpersonal skills, with a focus on results-oriented outcomes.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in relevant fields such as Human Resources, Organizational Development, International HR Management, or Business Administration. This advanced education is crucial for understanding the complexities of global talent management and organizational development.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 15 years of progressive HR experience, particularly in a global context. At least 8 years of this experience should be specifically in talent management, learning and development, or organizational development. Proven leadership experience in managing teams and developing high-performing individuals is essential, along with significant international exposure.

Languages:
A strong command of English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within CIMMYT. Proficiency in Spanish is considered a strong advantage, given the organization's location and the multicultural environment in which it operates.

Additional Notes:
This position is initially fixed for three years, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability. CIMMYT offers an internationally competitive salary and benefits package, which includes a housing allowance, car, comprehensive health and life insurance, assistance for children’s education, paid vacation, annual home travel airfare, contributions to a retirement plan, and generous relocation assistance. Candidates are encouraged to apply for the position by submitting a CV and cover letter, along with contact details for three work-related references. The application screening process will begin on April 28, 2025, and the position will remain open until filled. CIMMYT is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment, encouraging women and individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply.