Nonprofit

Director for the Global Wheat Program (GWP)

On-site, Work must be performed in or near Texcoco, Méx., Mexico
Apply


  • Details

    Job Type:Full Time
    Application Deadline:October 16, 2024
    Education:Doctorate Required
    Experience Level:Director

    Description

    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

    wheat breeding and genetic innovation, ensuring global food security? If so, CIMMYT invites you

    to lead the world’s largest wheat breeding and genetics innovation program as our next Program

    Director.

    You will spearhead the development of wheat varieties cultivated on over 70 million hectares

    worldwide. This role demands a dynamic leader capable of driving innovation and leading the

    program through necessary changes. Your expertise in plant breeding and your ability to navigate

    both technical and organizational challenges will ensure that CIMMYT remains at the cutting edge

    of wheat research and technology, all while directly advising the Deputy Director General

    Research and the Director General of the organization.

    Based at our headquarters in Texcoco, Mexico, you will:

    Catalyze Research and Innovation Through Visionary Leadership:

    → Drive Strategic Excellence: Partner with CIMMYT's leadership team to align the Global

    Wheat Program (GWP) with CIMMYT's 2030 Strategy, 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 wheat research.

    → Ensure Scientific Rigor: Provide technical oversight and quality assurance for the GWP,

    fostering an environment where innovative science and operational excellence converge.

    Elevate and Advocate CIMMYT’s Wheat Research Agenda Globally:

    → Stay at the Forefront: Keep abreast of global advancements in agricultural research, utilizing

    these insights to strengthen CIMMYT's wheat policies and drive actionable outcomes.

    → Champion Global Influence: Represent CIMMYT and the GWP in international forums and

    meetings, 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 GWP's alignment with CIMMYT's broader institutional

    priorities.

    Championing 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: Scrutinize and manage the GWP's research budget, ensuring

    robust funding streams that align with CIMMYT's strategic objectives.

    → Empower and Inspire: Work collaboratively with Program Directors and HR to align staffing

    with research needs, while motivating and leading scientific teams to uphold CIMMYT's high

    standards.

    Required Qualifications, Skills, and Personal Characteristics:

    → 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 cumulative 10-15 years or more of exemplary service 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 the world’s largest and most prestigious wheat

    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 GWP’s leadership by embracing modern practices and

    technologies, ensuring the program remains at the forefront of wheat 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.

    Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply using the following link. The application deadline is

    October 16th, 2024. Applications should include a motivational letter, a CV, and relevant

    documentation of qualifications and experiences. Incomplete applications will not be taken into

    consideration.

    For further information on the selection process, please contact Mr. Sebastian Volkers,

    principal consultant at Volkers Remarkable Talent, sebastian@volkers.dk. Please note that only short?listed candidates will be contacted.

    CIMMYT is an equal opportunity employer. It fosters a multicultural work environment that

    values gender equity, teamwork, and respect for diversity. Female candidates are encouraged

    to apply

    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

    wheat breeding and genetic innovation, ensuring global food security? If so, CIMMYT invites you

    to lead the world’s largest wheat breeding and genetics innovation program as our next Program

    Director.

    You will spearhead the development of wheat varieties cultivated on over 70 million hectares

    worldwide. This role demands a dynamic leader capable of driving innovation and leading the

    program through necessary changes. Your expertise in plant breeding and your ability to navigate

    both technical and organizational challenges will ensure that CIMMYT remains at the cutting edge

    of wheat research and technology, all while directly advising the Deputy Director General

    Research and the Director General of the organization.

    Based at our headquarters in…

    Location

    On-site
    Texcoco, State of Mexico, Mexico

    How to Apply

    Similar Jobs

    Illustration

    Take the Next Step in Your Career

    Match with social-impact hiring managers, explore the latest job opportunities, and get notified when new opportunities meet your search criteria.
    Apply