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. With impact in over 80 countries and 1,500 staff, we collaborate with hundreds of partners and are part of the global network of CGIAR research centers, delivering science for a food-secure future. For more information, visit cimmyt.org.

Advance Global Food Security as CIMMYT’s Director for the Global Maize Program (GMP)

Are you an experienced and visionary leader with a passion for innovation in global agricultural research? Do you possess the strategic foresight and technical expertise to drive the future of maize breeding and genetic innovation, ensuring global food security? If so, CIMMYT invites you to lead our maize breeding and genetics innovation program as our next Program Director.

You will spearhead the development of maize varieties cultivated worldwide. This role demands a dynamic leader capable of driving innovation and navigating both technical and organizational challenges. Your expertise in plant breeding will ensure that CIMMYT remains at the cutting edge of maize research and technology, while you provide direct counsel to the Chief Science and Innovation Officer and the Director General of the organization.

Based at either our office in Nairobi, Kenya, or at our headquarters in Texcoco, Mexico, you will:

Catalyze Research and Innovation Through Visionary Leadership:

Drive Strategic Excellence: As a member of CIMMYT’s leadership team, you will translate CIMMYT’s 2030 Strategy into reality through the Global Maize Program (GMP), integrating core research strengths with innovative program development.

Lead Transformative Initiatives: Spearhead strategic initiatives, leveraging CIMMYT’s unique capabilities to elevate the quality and global impact of our maize research.

Ensure Scientific Rigor: Provide technical oversight and quality assurance for the GMP, fostering an environment where innovative science and operational excellence converge.

Elevate and Advocate CIMMYT’s Maize Research Agenda Globally:

Stay at the Forefront: Keep abreast of global advancements in agricultural research, utilizing these insights to strengthen CIMMYT’s maize policies and drive actionable outcomes.

Champion Global Influence: Represent CIMMYT in international forums and meetings as a Leadership Team member and Director of one of its key programs, advocating for and advancing our research agenda with key stakeholders.

Drive Strategic Collaboration: Actively engage in governance, strategic decision-making, and resource allocation, ensuring the GMP’s alignment with CIMMYT’s broader institutional priorities.

Champion Strategic Resource Mobilization:

Forge Funding Pathways: Lead efforts to secure financial support by overseeing grants, projects, and intellectual property management, working closely with scientists and operational staff.

Optimize Resource Allocation: Manage the GMP’s research budget effectively, ensuring robust funding streams that align with CIMMYT’s strategic objectives.

Empower and Inspire: Collaborate with other Program Directors and HR to align staffing with research needs, motivating and leading scientific teams to uphold CIMMYT’s high standards.

Requirements

• Possess a Ph.D. in Plant Breeding, Genetics, or a closely related agricultural science field, with a significant publication record and demonstrable project leadership. The ideal candidate will have an excellent understanding of the characteristics, processes, and indicators essential for managing a world-class, science-based breeding program.
• A minimum of 10-15 years in senior management positions within renowned nonprofit organizations, foundations, corporate sectors, or government agencies, with a commanding track record in scientific leadership and executive oversight.
• A global perspective grounded in international and developing country experience, driven by a deep commitment to elevating living standards in emerging economies.
• A history of achieving exceptional outcomes, earning esteem for a cooperative and inclusive approach, and contributing to a culture of excellence.
• Versatility in managing a multitude of tasks and priorities within a dynamic, fast-paced environment, exemplifying agility, and strategic multitasking.
• Proven expertise in forging and nurturing relationships with a broad spectrum of individuals, across diverse backgrounds and disciplines.
• An innate ability to navigate the intricacies of international diplomacy with finesse, employing tact and discretion as fundamental tools of engagement.
• Strong communication skills, with fluency in English required and additional language proficiency desirable.
• You exhibit the following competencies: Strategic Impact, Operational Efficiency, People Management, Networking and Communication, and Individual Impact.

Our Commitment to You:

• Lead a Global Powerhouse: Take the helm of our prestigious maize breeding program, guiding advancements that shape global agriculture.
• Empower Excellence: Lead a team of world-class scientists, supported by CIMMYT’s executive leadership, to foster a culture of innovation and scientific rigor.
• Make a Global Impact: Drive food security in regions with limited resources, ensuring your work directly contributes to sustaining global food production.
• Champion Innovation: Reinforce the GMP’s leadership by embracing modern practices and technologies, ensuring the program remains at the forefront of maize breeding.
• Join a Collaborative Community: Be part of a dynamic, inclusive, and supportive environment where diversity, respect, and gender equality are at the core of our mission.
• Secure a Stable Future: The position is offered as a three-year, fixed-term contract, with the possibility of extension based on a performance review and fund availability.
• Enjoy Comprehensive Benefits: Benefit from a competitive international remuneration package, including a housing allowance, access to a vehicle, comprehensive health and life insurance, an educational allowance for dependent children, paid holidays, an annual home travel airfare, a contributory retirement plan, and substantial relocation support.

Benefits

Ready to Join Us?

Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply online . The application deadline is December 27th, 2024. Applications should include a motivational letter, a CV, and relevant documentation of qualifications and experiences. Please ensure that your application is complete, as incomplete submissions will not be considered. For further information on the selection process, please contact Mr. Sebastian Volkers, Principal Consultant at Volkers Remarkable Talent, at [email protected]. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

CIMMYT is an equal opportunity employer. We foster a multicultural work environment that values gender equity, teamwork, and respect for diversity. Female candidates are encouraged to apply.