Program Manager/Out-Grower Strategy Lead

SRI Executive Search has been contracted by AATF to assist with the search for an exceptional candidate to fill the position of Program Manager / Out-Grower Strategy Lead.

About African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF)

AATF is an international not-for-profit organisation that facilitates and promotes public/private partnerships to promote food security and enhance livelihoods of smallholder farmers in SSA.

AATF works with African governments, private and public technology owners and developers, NGOs, seed companies and African small holder farmers to identify and access technologies that address farmers’ key problems and empower them through availability of a choice of agricultural innovations that generate wealth and health for their families and communities.

AATF is a registered charity under the laws of England and Wales and has host country status with the Government of Kenya.

The Foundation depends on the ongoing support and collaboration of different partners and investors to meet its objectives.

For more information, please visit www.aatf-africa.org.

Role Purpose

The TELA Program Manager / Out-Grower Strategy Lead will oversee the TELA Program (BMSS-Nigeria and ABMAN Plans) and lead the development and implementation of out-grower strategies in Nigeria. This role is responsible for managing the TELA-Nigeria Program’s overall operations in the country, fostering partnerships, and ensuring the successful integration of out-grower schemes to enhance hybrid seed production and sustainability.

The TELA-Nigeria Program Manager / Out-Grower Strategy Lead is responsible for developing and executing strategies to effectively manage and optimize relationships with out-grower partners in Nigeria. This role involves working closely with farmers, suppliers, and internal teams to ensure the successful delivery of sustainable high-quality TELA hybrid seeds and meet program’s goals. The ideal candidate will possess strong strategic planning abilities, excellent interpersonal skills, and a deep understanding of agricultural practices, specifically in hybrid seeds production.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Program Management:

• Coordinate and manage overall implementation of the TELA-Nigeria Program (Biotech Maize Seed System – BMSS-Nigeria and Accelerating Bt Maize Adoption in Nigeria – ABMAN Plans), ensuring alignment with the goals of both plans.
• Promote the TELA-Nigeria Program and benefits of TELA maize to enhance visibility and support among relevant audiences in Nigeria.
• Contribute to the strategic planning of the TELA-Nigeria Program.
• Ensure compliance with Program’s goals, regulatory requirements, and stakeholder expectations in Nigeria.
• Identify potential risks to the Program and develop mitigation strategies to effectively address them.
• Develop and manage TELA-Nigeria Program’s budgets, timelines, and deliverables.
• Prepare and present regular progress reports to senior management and stakeholders.

2. Out-Grower Strategy Development:

• Design and implement out-grower strategies that align with TELA objectives to enhance seed production and timely meet seed production targets.
• Identify and recruit suitable large-scale out-growers to participate in the program.
• Negotiate contracts and agreements with out-growers, ensuring favorable terms and compliance with company standards.
• Develop training modules and provide support to out-growers on best practices in seed production to enhance productivity and seed quality.
• Regularly monitor out-grower activities, providing technical support, and guidance throughout the seed production cycle.
• Monitor and evaluate the performance of out-growers, providing feedback and guidance for improvement.
• Identify potential risks by out-growers and develop strategies to mitigate them.

3. Partnership and Stakeholder Management:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including Federal government, State governments, government agencies, NGOs, private sector partners, seed growers and farmers.
• Collaborate with research institutions and agricultural experts to incorporate best practices and innovative solutions in commercialization of TELA hybrids.
• Represent the TELA program at government meetings, industry events, conferences, and meetings.

4. Operational Excellence:

• Ensure the efficient and effective use of resources within the TELA-Nigeria program.
• Implement and maintain high standards of quality and safety across all TELA-Nigeria Program activities.
• Develop and implement risk management strategies to mitigate potential challenges and negative publicity.

5. Data Management and Reporting:

• Collect, analyze, and interpret data related to the TELA-Nigeria Program, cultivation of TELA hybrids, and seed out-grower activities.
• Use data-driven insights to inform decision-making and TELA-Nigeria Program strategy adjustments and implementation.
• Maintain comprehensive and precise records of all Program’s activities.
• Prepare and submit accurate and timely reports to stakeholders and management.

Competencies

Corporate Competencies

• Project Management: Expertise in planning, executing, and monitoring projects.
• Agricultural Knowledge: In-depth understanding of crop production, pest management, and sustainable farming practices.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop and implement effective out-grower strategies.
• Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills for reporting and stakeholder engagement.
• Data Analysis: Proficiency in analysing data to drive insights and improvements.
• Leadership: Capability to lead and motivate a team, managing performance and development.
• Problem Solving: Ability to identify issues and develop effective solutions.
• Strong advocacy and communication skills including effective public relations.
• Strong diplomatic and negotiation skills and nimble to changing environments and relationships.
• Ability to write/edit good reports, impact stories and minutes of meetings.
• High-level interpersonal and cross-cultural skills including ability to build alliances and collaborative relationships with sensitivity to diversity.
• Ability to maintain high standards of integrity; establish straightforward, productive relationships; treating individuals with fairness and respect.

Qualifications

Education

Minimum of a Master’s degree in Agriculture, Agribusiness, Project Management, or a related field.

Experience

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in government affairs, project management, and agricultural development.
• Proven experience in developing and managing out-grower schemes.
• Strong understanding of agricultural practices, crop management, and farming systems development.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a dynamic environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Willingness to travel to project and seed production sites as required.

Language Requirements

• Fluency in written and spoken English.
• A working knowledge of French would be an added advantage.

Terms of Appointment

This is a 3 years contract.

Role Location

Abuja, Nigeria

How to Apply

To apply for this position, please ensure you click Apply and complete the Application Form by 01 November 2024 (23:59 hrs, GMT +1). It is essential that you submit your CV in English, specifically in Microsoft Word format (.doc/.docx).

Applications in other languages or formats will not be considered.

Rest assured, all information will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.