Established in 2019, the Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) was created to address these four crises, maximizing impact for change at key points in the food system.
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The Alliance seeks a Managing Director for Africa to lead and drive our regional research for development strategy through effective influence, collaboration, and partnership building. Reporting to the Alliance Director General, the Managing Director steers engagement with partners and funders to achieve impact and mobilize resources. This role involves expanding our research portfolio, growing our project pipeline, and securing funding relevant to the region. The Managing Director also acts as advocate and spokesperson in Africa, elevating our visibility and communicating our mission and accomplishments. Additionally, the Managing Director liaises with CGIAR Centers, enhancing CGIAR's regional presence.
As the Alliance's legal representative in Africa, the Managing Director cultivates relationships with regional and host governments, ensuring legal compliance and adherence to both external regulations and internal policies.
Working in tandem with Business Operations and Finance, TI, Human Resources, Legal and other cross-functional units, the Managing Director identifies key operational priorities, suggests improvements, and drives efficiencies to ensure sustainability and effectiveness of operations in the region.
Key duties & responsibilities
Lead the development and implementation of a regional research for development strategy
Forge and maintain strategic partnerships with research organizations, government and non- government entities, CGIAR entities and the private sector to support the delivery of our strategic objectives in the region
Serve as a lead spokesperson in the region, showcasing our work and representing the organization in national and regional fora
Work collaboratively with Research and Partnerships & Communications to identify and materialize resource mobilization opportunities through partnerships with governments, regional multilateral development banks to secure adequate financial resources for delivering on the Alliance strategy in the region
Provide leadership for integration of research and various organizational functions to enhance efficiency, effectiveness, and impact of our work.
Ensure compliance with laws, host country agreements, and internal rules
Requirements
PhD or Master’s degree in a relevant field
Demonstrated track record of leadership in global or regional research for development organizations, with a deep knowledge of the research-for-development landscape and needs in the region, and the role of international and regionally based players
High-level relationships in the region and excellent partnership-building skills, working within a diverse community
Significant resource mobilization experience, including a good understanding of donor trends and investments in the development sector
Experience in high-level advocacy and the ability to inspire and influence a wide range of stakeholders
Demonstrated ability to lead by influence through relationship-building, alignment and consensus
Strong strategic thinking and decision-making abilities
Demonstrated ability to navigate and lead when facing ambiguity and change
Proven ability to integrate, inspire and develop multidisciplinary teams and manage talent, with a strong commitment to promoting diversity, knowledge sharing, and staff development.
Uphold the highest ethical standards by inspiring trust and treat all people with respect and personal integrity.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills in the English language, with the ability to communicate with all levels of the organization.
Knowledge of other languages spoken in the region will be a plus, in particular French.
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