Project Leader (Climate-Resilient Aquaculture Systems for Africa Project) at WorldFish

About the Project 

• The Climate-Resilient Aquaculture Systems for Africa (CASA) project is a five- year project that will be implemented in Kenya.  The purpose of the project is to reduce poverty, improve food and nutrition security, and improve adaptive capacity to climate change by strengthening the sustainable development of aquaculture systems in Kenya.  
• By the end of the project, it is expected that over 5 million people in Kenya will obtain increased food and nutrition security; over 5,000 fish farmers and processors will have higher incomes and productivity; and over 6,000 new jobs will have been created across aquaculture value chains in Kenya.  
• The intended change at the beneficiary level includes direct increases in income (over 50% for the average farmer-beneficiary). At the institutional level, significant improvements in local capacity to sustainably grow aquaculture production and address challenges are expected to emerge; and at the policy level, new or updated policies and increased investments in aquaculture by policymakers are expected. 

About the Position 

• We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Project Leader to oversee and manage the implementation of the CASA project. The project aims to transform the lives of stakeholders in aquatic food systems across Kenya, addressing the climate change challenges and offers the opportunity to deliver transformative food systems interventions in these countries. As the Project Leader, you will be responsible for the overall supervision of the project team and oversight of the project implementation.  
• This position will be based in Kenya and will report directly to the Principal Scientist (Genetics). Your primary goal will be to ensure the successful execution of the program, achieving its objectives and contributing to reduce poverty, improve food and nutrition security, and improve adaptive capacity to climate change by strengthening the sustainable development of aquaculture systems Kenya, reaching over 5 million beneficiaries. 

The Person  

The successful candidate will be responsible to: 

Project Management 

• Develop, maintain and implement a comprehensive project management plan, ensuring effective coordination of activities, resources, and timeliness of project deliverables. 
• Monitor project milestones, identify potential risks and implement mitigation strategies as necessary to keep the project on track. 
• Collaborate with the partners to ensure project alignment with the overall project goals and objectives. 
• Lead and oversee the overall project implementation to ensure it is delivered within scope, budget and schedule. 

Team Leadership and Supervision 

• Lead a cross-functional team, providing strategic direction, guidance, and support ensuring alignment with project’s objectives. 
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment, promoting knowledge sharing and innovation within the team. 
• Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback to team members, fostering their professional development. 
• Ensure compliance with project deliverables, budgets, and reporting requirements. 
• Responsible for effective delivery of all project activities, effective management of project partnerships, and proper technical and financial reporting to the donor. 

Stakeholder Engagement and Partnerships 

• Maintain current awareness of relevant policies and create an enabling environment for sustainable production in aquatic food systems. 
• Establish and maintain clear communication and strong relationships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, local partners, research institutions, NGOs, and local communities. 
• Collaborate with the partners to ensure effective knowledge sharing, learning, and capacity building opportunities. 

Requirements

This job might be for you if you have the below skills and qualifications:  

• A completed Masters or PhD in Aquaculture, Fisheries, Agricultural Economics or related disciplines. 
• Possess at least 10 years in successfully implementing projects related to aquaculture or fisheries development, with experience of working within or in close cooperation with the private sector. 
• Proven management experience with complex multi-million-dollar projects funded by international donors.  
• Working and living experience in Sub-Saharan Africa. 
• Strong leadership, coaching, and mentoring skills, with proven ability to provide technical guidance and leadership. 
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to develop action plans and rapidly implement solutions. 
• Track record of successfully influencing businesses, and other organizations in the aquatic food sector. 
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interface research and project implementation teams. 
• Uphold the highest ethical standards by inspiring trust and treating all people with respect and personal integrity. 
• Excellent written and verbal English proficiency.  

Desired Skills and Qualifications 

• Ability to effectively communicate a common vision to diverse internal and external stakeholders. 
• Track record of successfully scaling solutions in the aquatic food sector. 
• Extensive professional network with the private sector, donors, partners, and academia.