About IRRI

Job Purpose

The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) is the world’s premier research organization dedicated to reducing poverty and hunger through rice science; improving the health and welfare of rice farmers and consumers; and protecting the rice-growing environments for future generations.

Reporting to the Country Representative – Bangladesh, this position is responsible for providing an effective and efficient corporate services platform to support the program and representational activities of the IRRI Bangladesh Office. Works closely with the teams of Finance and Accounting, Operations, HR, and the country office project leaders. This position provides leadership and manages all country office (CO) Corporate Services (CS) functions by ensuring results-oriented, proactive service within a sound internal control framework in finance & accounting, procurement, human resources, ICT, logistics & coordination, security, occupational safety and health (OSH), risk management and all other duties assigned.

This position will be based at the IRRI Bangladesh Office, and may only be filled by permanent citizens of the Bangladesh.

Current IRRI staff are encouraged to apply and will be prioritized.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Provide leadership, oversight, and general management to the Bangladesh Country Office Corporate Services (CO-CS).
• Ensure all CS processes and actions comply with applicable host country laws, CGIAR Guidelines, CO established procedures, and IRRI’s guidelines and policies.
• Oversee the operations of the finance and accounting services to ensure efficient and effective administration, policy adherence, separation of duties, timely accounting and reporting services, financing, and budget management.
• Oversee and monitor the CS budget, project grants (ongoing/pipeline), and CO staffing.
• Ensure that the country office(s) are adequately equipped for operations and that controls exist to safeguard CO assets.
• Ensure procurement follows CGIAR Financial Guidelines 6 (FG6) and CO policies and procedures.
• Provide oversight and support the maintenance of positive human resource services, which include workplace relations, recruitment, contracting, on-board orientation, organizational development, compensation and benefits assistance, training, management issues, and grievance resolution.
• Ensure CO staff members have access to ICT services (intranet/email/OCS/support) and equipment that addresses the operational needs of the country office and is in line with IRRI ITS policies.
• Ensure adequate logistics and coordination services are available to in-country/remotely managed projects, incoming visitors, and NARS partners.
• Ensure adequate security and safety procedures are in place for employees in all country offices, including NARS partner-provided space and remote locations.
• Showcase all relevant policies, guidelines, regulations, and procedures and ensure CO staff members are sensitized and adhere to them.
• Coordinate with government bodies and departments, such as relevant ministries, tax authorities, customs and immigration, law enforcement, etc.
• Work closely with Project Leaders/Coordinators/Managers to understand how CS can best support their projects, aid in planning, and provide budget/financial advice.
• Support the implementation of locally held cultural and training events, and liaise with HQ regarding office training and organizational development needs.
• Work closely with the HR BP (or relevant position) and HQ to sustain a consistent, competitive pay philosophy.
• Work closely with PDMO on LoA NGO clearances and lease agreements.
• Develop, manage, and monitor the annual operational CO-CS budgets and maintain yearly and strategic financial forecasts supporting business planning activities and work plans.
• Monitor and review procurement requests and purchase orders; ensure policy adherence and best value for money.
• Supervise the development and implementation of CO HR and OD processes ensuring they are built upon the corporate model, are transparent, and conflict-free.
• Oversee the development and maintenance of a central repository of CO contracts, lease agreements, insurance policies, service agreements, and memorandums of understanding, including a register of obligations entered into through contracts, i.e., funding agreements.
• Lead in the preparation and delivery in coordination with the CO Representative, the Risk Register, Business Continuity Plan, and Country Evacuation Plan.
• Initiate, develop, and implement new technologies to operate across IRRI locations and ensure they are supported effectively and efficiently.
• Ensure appropriate physical security and safety measures are in place at CO facilities. Act as a safety and security focal point implementing an approach that maintains a safe and secure working environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Management or any course equivalent with at least 9 years of management or administrative experience in a managerial capacity
• Master’s degree in Management or any course equivalent with at least 7 years of management or administrative experience in a managerial capacity

Skills Required

• Strong background in Accounting and Finance, and exposure to Human Resources, Procurement, Risk Management, Logistics, OHS, Security and Protocol
• Experience working in an international organization/ enterprise
• Demonstrated general management skills
• Experience in dealing with government and regulatory authorities
• Knowledge and understanding of local laws and compliance requirements
• Strong analytical and decision making skills
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Strong computer skills, in particular using Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and the Internet
• Experience in using ERPs

Please note only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
This position will remain open until filled.