Director for the Global Wheat Program (GWP)

Are you an experienced and visionary leader with a passion for innovation in global agricultural research? Do you possess the strategic foresight and technical expertise to drive the future of  wheat breeding and genetic innovation, ensuring global food security?

If so, CIMMYT invites you  to lead the world’s largest wheat breeding and genetics innovation 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 of the organization.

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

Required Qualifications, Skills, and Personal Characteristics:
→ 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.

Our Commitment to You:
→ 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. 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.

For further information on the selection process, please contact Mr. Sebastian Volkers,  principal consultant at Volkers Remarkable Talent, sebastian@volkers.dk. Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. 

CIMMYT is an equal opportunity employer. It fosters a multicultural work environment that  values gender equity, teamwork, and respect for diversity. Female candidates are encouraged  to apply