The position:

The selected candidate will develop and lead CIP’s Africa regional strategy in support of CIP2030 strategic goals and in response to the priorities of regional stakeholders. The Regional Director for Africa will be responsible for government, partner and funder relations and represents CIP with these stakeholders in the region. The Regional Director for Africa will direct and supports Country Managers to develop and manage strategic relationships at country level. In addition, the selected candidate will ensure organizational growth in the region through technically and financially sound programming and equitable partnerships.

The successful candidate will report to the Director General and will be based in Nairobi, Kenya.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Planning, Partnerships, and Representation: Leads the development and oversee delivery of implementation plans and other strategic mechanisms for the implementation of CIP2030 Strategy. Models and practices CIP’s commitment to Equitable Partnerships with stakeholders in the region, establishing and nurturing strategic partnerships with governments, funders and other key constituencies. Represents CIP with governments, funders, the international community, industry representatives and regional bodies through regular interactions and participation in policy and technical forums. Directs and supports Country Managers to develop and manage productive and equitable relationships with stakeholders at country level. The Regional  Director will also contribute to the evolution of CGIAR strategies and partnerships in the region.
• Resource Mobilization and Programming: Develops and drives forward resource mobilization plans for the region, focused on the CIP2030 strategic goals, the evolving priorities of regional constituencies and arising opportunities. Maintains a high level of understanding of funder priorities relevant to CIP in the region.
• Worksclosely with CIP Science Leaders and the Resource Mobilization team, the Regional Director will oversee the development of innovative programs in response to these priorities, applying Equitable Partnership principles to forge regional and international partnerships for this purpose.
• CIP Operations in the Region: Oversees the implementation of CIP’s operations in the region, including People & Culture, Finance, Grants and Legal Services, and Administration, working closely with the global Heads of these operations units. Ensures the implementation and monitoring of financial and operational policies and procedures at country and regional level and provide regular reports to CIP Operations Leaders as required.
• The Regional Director is accountable for compliance according to external agreements and delegation of authority assigned to this position.
• Safety, Security and Risk Management: Oversees the implementation of regional security guidelines and security management plan. Implements CIP’s Health & Safety policy at regional level and ensure compliance at country level.
• People Management: Leads CIP’s commitment to recruit, manage and develop high performing regional and country-based staff. Develops a positive work environment for all staff across the region. Manages and mentors
• Country Managers to ensure effective talent management processes, contributes to their performance reviews, and identifies succession and staff development plans.

What are we looking for?

• Advanced degree (PhD or Master) in a Science or Management discipline.
• At least 10 years of progressive international experience in similar research and/or development organizations.
• Significant leadership experience in an equivalent position in a development or international organization.
• Strong track record of establishing and managing strategic partnerships with funders, governments, international organizations, and the research community at regional level in Africa.
• Strong knowledge and experience of management practices to enable the creation of appropriate regional implementation plans and mechanisms.
• Proven expertise of leading large funding initiatives and manage complex regional projects and programs.
• Budget management and IT literate (Microsoft and ERP software).

Leadership competencies:

• Focus on big picture and strategic vision.
• Building and maintaining partnerships and relationships.
• Planning and managing staff to achieved quality results.
• Influencing and resolving differences across boundaries.
• Leading by example
• Outstanding written and oral communication skills in English.
• Proficiency in French, Portuguese, or Kiswahili is highly desirable.