Programme Leader, Commodity Genetic Resources, Production Systems and Value Chains

Bioversity International (“Bioversity” for short) is the world’s largest organization undertaking research on agricultural biodiversity, dedicated to addressing global issues related to food security, poverty, climate change and environmental degradation. We are a non profit organization, active in over 100 countries worldwide, with more than 350 staff working from some 16 country offices. We are one of 15 centres of the Consortium of International Agricultural Research Centres (CGIAR). This is an exciting time to join Bioversity International. We have recently developed new and ambitious goals, clear objectives and performance indicators for the next ten years. Two strategic priorities have been set ? to improve the use of biodiversity by smallholder farmers and the conservation of plant diversity.

For further information on Bioversity International, consult the Web page at

http://www.bioversityinternational.org

Purpose of Role

With international attention now focused on the need to increase investment in agriculture, Bioversity is

seeking a highly motivated and dynamic person to lead the Commodity Genetic Resources, Production

System and Value Chains Programme as well as contribute directly to research in one of the associated

areas. As the leader of a global research team, the incumbent will provide scientific leadership, coordination and facilitation of ongoing and new research and global partnerships to lead to the development of a global programme on genetic resources, production systems and value chain management in bananas, cacao and coconut. The position will be based in Bioversity’s Montpellier Officein France.

Key responsibilities

He/She will have the following main responsibilities:

Manage and coordinate the research of scientists within the Commodity Genetic Resources, Production System and Value Chains Programme, be responsible for its strategic coherence and scientific output, and foster the necessary partnerships to achieve research outcomes;

Be responsible for the Programme’s participation in relevant CGIAR Research Programmes (CRPs) in line with Bioversity’s policies;

Lead and contribute to research in one of the fields associated with the Programme; and to the design of practices, guidelines, impact pathways and processes towards achieving outcomes on the ground in countries around the world;

Collaborate with other scientists working on genetic resources, production systems and/or value chains, both within Bioversity and in other CGIAR Centres and organizations;

Produce scientific publications and other impact-oriented products from high quality research;

Lead our engagement with other key stakeholders and establish and maintain strategic partnerships at national and international levels;

Lead or contribute to the development of fundraising proposals to support such research, the associated capacity building of partners and the achievement of research outcomes.

Contribute to the communication effort of Bioversity on the research being conducted within the Programme;

Identify and lead opportunities to advance Bioversity’s research agenda.

Qualifications and competencies

Essential qualifications & competencies

A PhD in a relevant discipline.

At least 10 years of research experience and track record in a biological or social science relevant to the programme.

At least 5 years experience carrying out research with partners and relevant field experience in developing countries.

Familiarity with commodities of current strategic importance to Bioversity, (banana and plantain, coconut and cacao); experience with a specific aspect of commodities research, such as genetic resources conservation, crop improvement, sustainable production systems management and/or value chain analysis and livelihoods.

Demonstrated competency in the management of scientific staff and other resources at a senior level, preferably in an international research or academic environment.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills including the ability to effectively interact with people at all levels and build consensus in a multi-cultural and multi-disciplinary environment.

Demonstrated ability to build relationships with donors and generate funds for research and delivery of outcomes.

A substantial and sustained record of achievement and innovation through project development, implementation and delivery of results, and demonstrated publication record.

Drive and entrepreneurship to pursue and develop new research opportunities.

Excellent English, both verbal and written.

Desirable qualifications and competencies

Familiarity with the CGIAR system and the CGIAR Research Programmes.

Working knowledge of Spanish, French or other major global languages.

Terms and conditions: This is an internationally recruited position at Level 2 of Bioversity’s Internationally

Recruited Scale, in a scale of 5 levels, with level 1 being the highest. Bioversity International offers an

attractive remuneration package including a competitive salary, non-contributory retirement plan, medical

insurance, housing allowance and leave provisions. All benefits are denominated and paid in US Dollars.

The initial contract will be for a period of three years subject to a probationary period of one year.

Applications: Please apply online through Bioversity Job Opportunities web page

(http://www.bioversityinternational.org/about_us/job_opportunities.html ) by clicking the “Apply” button,

completing the online application and attaching the required information, no later than 31 March 2012.

Please note that in the application you are required to provide the contact details (address, telephone

number and e-mail address) of at least three referees, which Bioversity will contact for short listed

applicants.

Bioversity is an equal opportunity employer and strives for staff diversity. Women and candidates from developing countries are

encouraged to apply.

Bioversity International, Bioversity for short, is the operating name of the International Plant Genetic Resources Institute (IPGRI) and the International Network for Improvement of Banana and Plantain (INIBAP).