CIMMYT is a cutting-edge, non-profit, international organization dedicated to solving tomorrow’s problems today. It is entrusted with fostering improved quantity, quality, and dependability of production systems and basic cereals such as maize, wheat, triticale, sorghum, millets, and associated crops through applied agricultural science, particularly in the Global South, through building strong partnerships. This combination enhances the livelihood trajectories and resilience of millions of resource-poor farmers, while working towards a more productive, inclusive, and resilient agrifood system within planetary boundaries.

For more information, visit cimmyt.org.

CIMMYT is looking for a proactive, self-driven, and service-focused professional to join our team as the Deputy Director of Finance.

This position will be based at CIMMYT HQ’s in Texcoco, Mexico.

Specific duties: 

• • Support the Director of Finance in establishing the tactical and operational work plan of the department based on the long-term Excellence in Operations Strategy and monitoring the progress thereof.
  • Officer in charge in case of absence of the Director of Finance.
  • Coordinate updates in organizational-wide Finance policies and procedures.
  • Coordinates responses to Internal and External audit observations and institutional wide improvement areas as part of the organizational wide Combined Assurance model, including enterprise risk management.
  • Monitors the effectiveness and performance of the global finance functions through a KPI performance management system.
  • Lead the Finance integration function globally, overseeing the financial planning and reporting frameworks for CIMMYTs integrated grant portfolio, including the CGIAR Science Programs & Accelerators (P25-30) across all CIMMYT’s research programs.
  • Establishes the financial framework for P25-P30 research portfolio in alignment with the updated Window 1&2 operational funding framework, structure, and guidelines.
  • Develop and monitor an institutional-wide Finance Quality Assurance program throughout the entire project life cycle (financial design, governance, implementation, monitoring, and closing) across all CIMMYT programs, in coordination with other Finance Units, PFMs, and Research teams, prioritizing.
  • Implement and maintain a harmonized budget management framework (systems & procedures) across all CIMMYT research programs to ensure accurate budget management for:
    • Pre-pipeline (budget envelopes) and pipeline management
    • Detailed budgeting for contract management:
    • Timely Budget realignments across all programs.
    • Consistent Solution framework for common donor restrictions across all programs. Become a Center of Excellence in managing financial regulations of the entire portfolio of funders.
    • Approach and train Country Office Staff on budget management, key risks and controls.

• In collaboration with the Knowledge Management & IT department, establish or improve Business Intelligence (BI) financial reporting solutions for:
  • Organizational wide, internal Management purpose, as part of the global ERP rollout of Microsoft Dynamics 365, allowing drag & drop of data cubes per program budget per year, per region/country.
  • Specific programmatic needs.
• In coordination with the Program Finance team, operate under a single Partners Framework, outline guidelines, and standardize practices and training across ALL CIMMYT programs and locations.
• Establish a Program Finance business partner framework to allow for modular program finance support model across all CIMMYT programs, allowing staff to be assigned to each program on a rotational basis, as part of staff career Plans and Staff capacity development.
• Provide Input for 360 Performance Management evaluation of Program Finance Managers.
• Establish Capacity building and Talent management processes for the finance function.
  • For new joiners (quick onboarding).
  • Internal capacity building program (2–4-year learning program junior/middle/senior level) to enable/grow internal talents.
  • Harmonize the Global Finance Job catalog and ToR’s.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in finance or accounting, complemented with a Certified Management Accountant (CMA), Chartered Accountant (CA) or Certified Public Accountant (CPA), or similar qualification.
• Advanced knowledge of relevant administrative and/or operating protocols and policies of the finance function
• A minimum of 10 years in a managerial role, requiring deep broad knowledge across all functional finance areas; demonstrated international experience gained through global oversight positions, and proven ability to manage teams on a global scale.
• Ability to identify or develop innovative methodologies, formulate new policies and procedures, and establish connections with peripheral developments
• Must have excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships and communicate effectively to explain financial concepts to non-finance people. The selected candidate should be able to influence key decision-makers and think strategically.
• Excellent project management and analytical skills.
• Participate and contribute actively across CIMMYT programs and develop and maintain appropriate working relationships with the staff of the corporate services units. Communication with finance focal points from collaborators and/or funders may be required.
• Frequent interaction with internal teams across all parts of CIMMYT and external stakeholders to provide leadership, influence, and secure commitment in a critical aspect of a Research or Research Support function.
• Confidently interact with colleagues and external contacts on complex issues, create documents or presentations, and effectively persuade, negotiate, coach, conceptualize, train, and translate complex technical, financial, and contractual documents.
• Demonstrates advanced proficiency in standard software, including minor programming with macros, mail merge, designing customized reports, developing audiovisual presentations, advanced Excel skills, and knowledge of Power BI tools as an asset.
• Makes decisions and recommendations on projects and activities within their specialization, manages budgets, sets priorities, allocates resources, and formulates action plans for multiple diverse projects or work units.
• Fluent in English. A moderate or Advanced level of Spanish is a plus.
• The selected requires the following competencies: Team Leadership, Negotiation and Conflict Resolution, Client Orientation, Teamwork, Critical Thinking, Problem Solving and Decision Making.

Benefits

The position is for an initial fixed term of three (3) years, after which further employment is subject to performance and the continued availability of funds. CIMMYT’s internationally competitive salary and benefits include housing allowance, car, comprehensive health and life insurance, assistance for children’s education, paid vacation, annual home travel airfare, contribution to a retirement plan, and generous assistance with relocation shipment.

Candidates must apply online for IRS24159 Deputy Director of Finance.

Screening and follow-up of applications will begin on January 4th, 2025.

Applications must include a CV with contact details (telephone and email address) of 3 work-related references along with the confirmation that Recruitment can contact them) and a cover letter.

Incomplete applications will not be taken into consideration.

Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

This position will remain open until filled.

CIMMYT is an equal opportunity employer. It fosters a multicultural work environment that values gender equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity. Women are encouraged to apply.