International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT)
Job Description
1 Vacancies
The position will provide day-to-day supervision, management and administrative support and coordination for proper and timely implementation of the AID-I project for CIMMYT in Malawi. The Country Coordinator will have the overall responsibility of coordinating different implementing partners to ensure that they deliver on their commitments timely in an effective and efficient manner. In liaison with the Project PI and Scientists and partners, He/She will be responsible for overall periodic project reporting and day-to-day implementation. Given the scale and depth of the AID-I project, the Country Coordinator will be working directly with several partners in Malawi.
Project Implementation and Work planning:
- In collaboration with implementing partners (other CGIAR centers, NGOs, government departments, Private sector), develop and implement a detailed project work plan and, in coordination with partners, revise the work plan as appropriate to meet changing needs and requirements.
- Liaises with project partners and other stakeholders in the project areas in Malawi on an on-going basis to ensure the project maintains its relevance in supporting and meeting the needs of targeted beneficiaries.
Project Funds Management & Compliance:
- Tracks project milestones and deliverables and leads in drafting periodic project progress reports to CIMMYT leadership, USAID and other development partners.
- Provide procedures and policy guidance and interpretation for program staff as well as sub-contractors/ sub-grantees.
Building Partnerships & Capacity Building:
- Builds, develops and grows business relationships vital to the success of the project – this may include but not limited to the creation of relationships with agro-dealer networks, seed companies, public and private extension agents, fertilizer companies, ICT service providers, and other stakeholders in the project countries.
- Identify and resolve issues and conflicts within the project teams and relevant stakeholders.
- Coordinate joint capacity building initiatives for project partners.
- Co-ordinate implementation of outreach activities such as common field / open days;
- Serve as a link between AID-I project and Government agencies in the project countries such as Directorate for Agricultural Research Services (DARS) in Malawi, and relevant line ministries such as Ministries of Agriculture.
Program and Finance Reporting:
- Collate technical and financial reports and in liaison with project leaders.
- Support the SAS Program manager with project funds management, sub-grants and other implementing partners budget versus forecast reviews, and ensure project expenses are in conformity with the USAID cost principles.
Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Support:
- Undertake Learning events, communications and advocacy mechanisms between the Project and USAID and other stakeholders as necessary.
- Organizes joint project quarterly and annual review meetings
- Jointly with the CIMMYT MEL and USAID MEL to develop and institutionalize monitoring and evaluation procedures that would support the tracking of project milestones and prevent digression from the intended purpose of the project.
- Other tasks as required by the Chief of Party and SAS Program Manager Africa.
Qualification and Experience:
- Masters’ Degree in Agriculture, Business or Public Administration or related field
- Advanced knowledge of relevant administrative and/or operating protocols and policies of the function.
- Professional work Experience
- 8 years post-qualification experience in managing USAID funded agricultural projects in Southern Africa, with conceptual knowledge of theories, practices and procedures associated with such a task
- Project Management experience and experience in the management of agricultural Research and Development projects
- Managerial competence and PMP or similar project management certification desirable.
- Work experience monitoring compliance with contract terms and conditions in accordance with USAID regulations and other applicable laws.
- Working experience managing large donor funds budgets / project portfolio size (over US$15M)
Applicants should apply on or before 19 May 2023, with their latest Resume, and the names and contact information of three references that are knowledgeable about their professional qualifications and work experience. All applications will be acknowledged; however only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
Key Skills
Project Management,
Agriculture
Additional/Preferred Skills
Administration
Preferred Qualifications
Master’s Degree
Preferred Industry Experience
10 years experience,
Malawi,
Zambia,
smallholder farmers
Why ICRISAT?
ICRISAT offers a rewarding career opportunity in dryland agricultural research to have a lasting impact on millions of lives and communities. The state of the art research infrastructure with high performance culture, ICRISAT provides global exposure and learning. For more details, visit www.icrisat.org
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