Job Description

Job Title: Program Lead – Agriculture and Food Systems Team

Brief Summary

We are seeking a highly experienced and skilled Program Lead to join our Agriculture and Food Systems Team. As a Program Lead, you will be responsible for leading the design, implementation, and management of programs aimed at improving agricultural productivity, enhancing food security, and promoting sustainable agriculture practices in Ethiopia. You will work closely with our team, stakeholders, and partners to achieve our strategic objectives and contribute to the country’s agricultural development.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement program strategies, plans, and budgets to achieve our agricultural development goals
• Provide technical leadership and guidance to our team members, including program officers, technical specialists, and other stakeholders
• Collaborate with government agencies, NGOs, private sector companies, and other partners to leverage resources, expertise, and funding for program implementation
• Conduct needs assessments, baseline studies, and impact evaluations to inform program design and improvement
• Manage program budgets, ensure financial transparency and accountability, and comply with organizational policies and procedures
• Represent our organization in national and international forums, workshops, and conferences to promote our work and build partnerships
• Identify and pursue new funding opportunities, develop proposals, and engage with donors to secure program funding

Requirements

• MSc or PhD degree in Agriculture, Agricultural Economics, Food Science, or a related field from a recognized Ethiopian or international university
• At least 8 years of experience in program management, agricultural development, or a related field, with a focus on food systems, agricultural productivity, and rural development
• Proven track record of successfully designing, implementing, and managing programs, with a strong emphasis on results-based management and impact evaluation
• Strong technical expertise in areas such as crop and animal production, irrigation, soil science, agricultural extension, and food processing
• Excellent leadership, management, and teamwork skills, with the ability to motivate and guide high-performing teams
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and networking skills, with the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders, including government officials, donors, and community leaders
• Fluency in Amharic and English, with proficiency in other local languages an added advantage
• Willingness to travel frequently to rural areas, with a strong commitment to our organization’s mission and values