Agricultural Development Specialist and IRRI Representative for Bangladesh

Rice is the most important agricultural commodity in Bangladesh and large potentials exist for increasing its productivity as well as for diversifying and intensifying rice-based farming systems, thereby contributing to food security, alleviation of poverty, and overcoming malnutrition.

IRRI is looking for a dynamic agricultural development specialist to be its official country representative in Bangladesh. He/She will provide strategic leadership and effective management of research and development activities aimed at sustainable intensification and diversification of rice-based cropping systems. He/She will provide in-country coordination of ongoing projects as well as new ones to be developed, implementing a coherent long-term vision and work plan for IRRI’s contributions to the development of the agricultural sector in Bangladesh. He/She will oversee a team of technical and administrative in-country support staff and will liaise with other IRRI staff based at its headquarters in the Philippinesand in the region (including breeders, agronomists, natural resource management specialists, pest and disease specialists, socioeconomists). As the chief representative of IRRI in Bangladesh, he/she will liaise with a wide range of national and international partners and donors and seek out new opportunities for expanding IRRI’s research in the country.

RESPONSIBILITIES

This position involves all aspects of coordinating a large number of research and development activities as well as leadership, liaison, and administrative oversight responsibilities related to IRRI’s presence in Bangladesh

• As coordinator of research projects, conduct or oversee research on agricultural development aspects in rice-based farming systems of Bangladesh, with particular emphasis on agronomic solutions for future cropping systems.
• Cultivate excellent relationships with donors; government counterparts; public, private and civil society organizations and institutions; and with other relevant international agencies; ensure high visibility and impact of IRRI’s work in Bangladesh.
• Develop, in collaboration with a wide range of national partners, a strategic research vision and program for IRRI’s contributions to rice research and development in Bangladesh; seek opportunities for partnerships and mobilize funds for its implementation.
• Lead and manage in-country implementation of IRRI activities, such as the introduction and testing of new rice varieties, crop and postharvest management technologies, and novel rice-based cropping systems.
• Advise IRRI scientists on national developments, new opportunities, potential partners, and appropriate policies and procedures for working in Bangladesh.
• Manage the IRRI Bangladesh Office in line with IRRI policies and with support from a corporate services manager (staff, finances, assets).

REQUIREMENTS

The successful candidate will have a Master’s or PhD degree in a discipline related to international agricultural research or agricultural development (agronomy, agricultural economics, etc.) or rural development; minimum of 10 years’ prior field experience in managing agricultural or rural research and development projects; experience in research for development of rice-based cropping systems; high level of strategic vision and leadership; ability to develop and communicate a common vision among diverse partners; proven expertise in leading teams and building partnerships for collaborative, interdisciplinary research or development and in managing complex work situations; demonstrated ability to liaise with donors, national policymakers, public, civil society, and private sector organizations; excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including written and spoken English; and commitment to gender equity and diversity.