Project Development Officer at CABI (Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International)

Project Development

• Gather donor intelligence and explore new funding opportunities by regularly monitoring donor websites.
• Communicate this information within International Development and the Knowledge Business.
• Work closely with CABI scientists to prepare and collate information for project proposals.
• Assist project scientists in developing logical frameworks and planning and budgeting for project activities, including monitoring and evaluation.
• Ensure that gender perspectives are adequately represented in project proposals.
• Ensure that bid documents conform to the requirements and priorities of donor organizations.
• Finalize proposal documents for submission in excellent
• English and present them in a clear, logical, and winning style.
• Assist scientists with preparing internal quality assurance documents during the proposal process.
• Handle financial information competently and confidentially, including data analysis and presentation in line with donor requirements and CABI’s financial procedures.

Knowledge & Skills

• Knowledge of research and international development funding streams
• Proven experience of project/proposal development for international donors
• Considerable and demonstrable post qualification experience in an agriculture or agricultural development context – typically at least 3 years
• Experience of developing projects across geographies or cultures
• Understanding of the use of applied biological science in international development, especially relating to agriculture and the environment
• Familiarity with the logical framework and other strategic planning approaches
• Proven ability to rapidly evaluate complex information and to articulate concepts effectively to technical experts and non-experts
• Fluency in English, with first class written and oral communication skills
• Excellent numeracy skills
• Good working knowledge of the MS Office suite of programs.

Desirable

• Good knowledge of global and regional development issues including experience in research management
• Developing country experience in agricultural development and applied research, ideally working with a range of stakeholders including local communities, NGOs, government officials, other partners, researchers, etc.
• Understanding of knowledge management principles and the use of digital tools in an international development context
• Understanding of gender issues and how to mainstream gender and youth perspectives in projects
• Familiarity with file sharing and customer relationship management programs/platforms
• Competence in at least one other primary language.

 Education & Qualifications

• MSc. in biological or social science, preferably in agriculture, agricultural development, or international development. PhD or equivalent experience would be desirable.