The Global Crop Diversity Trust (Crop Trust) is an international organization with headquarters in Bonn, Germany whose mission is to ensure the conservation and availability of crop diversity for food security worldwide. For further information about the Global Crop Diversity Trust, consult the web page at http://croptrust.org  

The Global Crop Diversity Trust is seeking an outstanding candidate for the position of:

Strategic Advisor to the Executive Director

The Strategic Advisor to the Executive Director (ED) of the Crop Trust will provide comprehensive support to the ED in strategic planning, organizational development, external presentation and day to day activities. The Strategic Advisor will serve as a critical liaison between the ED and all teams in the organization, facilitating effective communication and collaboration. This position requires a proactive individual with a relevant academic background and outstanding communication, organizational, and strategic skills to help drive the Crop Trust’s mission forward.

 Responsibilities

The responsibilities typically relate to those tasks in the Crop Trust that are cross-sectional and involve bringing together content from the various units - Science & Programs, Partnerships, Communications and Finance. They include the following:

·       Contribute to the implementation of the Crop Trust 2030 Strategic Plan and work plans, in particular – in close liaison with the Science & Programs team – helping with system building among genebanks around the world on technical, organizational and political levels, as well as supporting the development of the Crop Trust into a global information service provider and knowledge hub on plant genetic resources, ensuring relevant stakeholder interests are integrated into planning and implementation.

·       Support the ED in his role to lead the further strategic development of the Crop Trust.

·       Liaise with the Chief Scientist to synthesize the current state of science and political debate on relevant topics like agri-food systems transformation; agri-food systems in the context of climate change, biodiversity loss, conflicts and human development; nature-based solutions; landscape restoration.

·       Prepare the ED for meetings, conferences, and public appearances, including developing briefing notes and other strategic documents to support the ED in his engagements.

·       Represent the ED and act as a spokesperson for the organization whenever required, ensuring effective communication of the Crop Trust’s mission and achievements.

·       Serve as a point of initial contact between the ED and relevant stakeholders.

·       Ensure the ED’s interactions and engagements with external parties are well captured in the organization's CRM systems.

·       Assist the ED in significant daily tasks and strategic initiatives, ensuring prompt follow-ups on all agreed actions.

·       Support effective internal communications by providing regular updates to all staff on the activities of the ED.

Qualifications, Skills and Experience

●      Strong academic background in a relevant discipline (e.g. biology, agriculture, geography, economics, political science and/or other social sciences) and/or an advanced degree in international relations or development studies.

●      Proof of relevant analytical skills, an adept handling of data and facts and the ability to analyze and translate them into comprehensive language and visuals. Experience in working with geographic information systems and CRM systems are assets.

●      At least seven years of relevant and progressive professional experience, preferably in an international setting

●      Post-graduate research experience or at least 2-3 years of work experience in a governmental, parastatal or international organization or NGO.

●      Exceptional communication and organizational skills.

●      Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

●      Fluency in English; proficiency in other languages is an asset.

Terms and Conditions: The Crop Trust offers an attractive remuneration package including a competitive salary, non-contributory retirement savings plan, medical insurance and leave provisions. This is a Professional position classified as Level 4, with Level 6 being the highest. The salary range for Level 4 starts at Euro 55,000. All benefits are denominated and paid in Euros. Staff of the Crop Trust (including German nationals) are exempt from host country income tax. Relocation costs are covered for candidates residing outside of the Bonn/Cologne or surrounding areas. The contract duration will be for three year and will be subject to a probationary period of 12 months.

Applications: Interested candidates should submit the following (incomplete applications will not be considered):

1.     A one-page motivation letter including a summary of your qualifications and experience, indicating how you meet the expected set of skills and competencies for the position and your drivers for applying.

2.     Your Curriculum Vitae in English (please include your current residence address, telephone, and email address, date of birth, gender and nationality).

3.     Names and full contact details of at least three referees.

Deadline for applications is 16 September 2024.

By submitting your application, you agree to the Crop Trust processing your personal data as

described here.

The Trust is an equal opportunity employer and strives for staff diversity in gender and nationality.

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.