Global Recruitment Specialists - GRS 568 - Director General - International Center for Tropical Agriculture

GRS ID#: 568

POSITION TITLE:	Director General
CLIENT:	International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) ( www.ciat.cgiar.org )
POSITION LOCATION:	Cali, Colombia

The International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) seeks a Director General to lead the Center in conducting socially and environmentally progressive research to reduce hunger and poverty and preserve natural resources in Latin America, Africa and Asia. CIAT, headquartered near Cali, Colombia, is a member of the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR).

CIAT researchers focus on technologies and social processes to facilitate the development of ecologically and socially sustainable agricultural and natural resource-based livelihoods, often using interdisciplinary and participatory approaches. Most CIAT research is done in cooperation with partners such as national agricultural research systems and non-governmental organizations. Currently CIAT is partnering with over 160 private sector, public sector, international NGOs, institutions and farmer organizations around the world.

CIAT has programs in Latin America, Africa and Asia. The annual budget is about US$ 40 million, with 83 internationally recruited scientists and over 600 nationally diverse staff in 4 regional and 19 country offices supporting a portfolio of 6 global outcome lines. Additional information on CIAT can be found at http://www.ciat.cgiar.org .

The Director General is appointed for a 5-year term which, by mutual agreement, can be renewed. Salary and perquisites are internationally competitive. The term of office begins 1 August, 2008 or as soon as possible after.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The Director General (DG) is the Chief Executive and Administrative Officer of the Center. She/he is responsible for the overall management of CIAT, implements the policies as defined by the Board, and oversees all external relations of the Center. The DG is an ex-officio member of the Board of Trustees.

The DG provides leadership for the Center in planning, coordinating and evaluating research, finance and administrative activities and is directly responsible for international cooperation. She/he oversees the allocation of resources, and the process that ensures accountability for the use of these resources.

The DG is expected to stimulate an environment of high-quality science, to encourage professional vitality and effectiveness, and to create a good work climate for women and men scientists and staff. She/he communicates goals, objectives, and ideals of the Center, and encourages an institutional culture of the highest standards. She/he is responsible for supporting recruitment and making local and international staff appointments in accordance with the recruitment policies approved by the Board.

She/he represents the Center externally, guides the communication process with stake and shareholders, and leads the fund raising activities of the Center. Currently over 60 different multilateral, bilateral governments and foundations support the work of the Center.

QUALIFICATIONS

PhD or equivalent in biophysical or social sciences related to sustainable agriculture or natural resource management, with a broad understanding of the interdependence of biological, natural resource and social sciences;
Awareness and understanding of issues and global challenges that affect research in agriculture and natural resource management;
Demonstrated capabilities in understanding and communicating with diverse stakeholders about global and regional issues in agriculture, natural resource management and food security in Latin America, Africa and Asia;
Experience in broad partnerships and networking, particularly in science and rural development in Latin America, Africa and Asia;
Proven skills in managing a complex organization;
Ability to nurture and facilitate teamwork in a multicultural environment;
Sensitivity to gender and diversity of the Institute and the local cultures of collaborating countries;
Fluency in written and spoken English, and, as soon as possible, Spanish.
Direct research experience in Latin America, Africa or Asia and familiarity with the CGIAR system are desirable.
Demonstrated fund-raising skills.

Nominations and applications will be accepted until 1 February 2008, or until the position is filled. Applications will be treated confidentially. All received applications will be acknowledged, but only short listed applicants will be contacted further.

CIAT is an equal opportunity employer and strives for staff diversity in gender and nationality.
Women and candidates from Latin America, Africa and Asia
are particularly encouraged to apply.

To Apply, please send curriculum vitae and 3 references to:

Patrick Shields, President
Global Recruitment Specialists
501 Westport Avenue, Suite 285
Norwalk, Connecticut (CT) 06851 USA
Tel / Fax: 203-899-0499
E-mail: Shields at GlobalRecruitment.net

Positioning You For Success