IRS23159 Director of the Global Wheat Program

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 Wheat Program (GWP)

Are you an experienced and visionary leader with a passion for innovation in plant breeding, genetics, and food science? Do you possess the strategic foresight and technical expertise to drive the future of wheat breeding, ensuring global food security? If so, CIMMYT invites you to lead the world’s largest wheat breeding 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.

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 scientists and HR to align staffing with research needs, while motivating and leading scientific teams to uphold CIMMYT's high standards.

• 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.

• 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.

Ready to Join Us?

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. 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 equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity. Female candidates are encouraged to apply.