Project Coordinator

CGIAR System Organization; Montpellier; Sur place; EUR 45 000 - 60 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

A leading global research partnership seeks an experienced project coordinator for enhancing seed potato production in Madagascar. The role involves overseeing project implementation, managing partnerships, and developing agricultural practices to support local farmers. Candidates should have significant experience in project management and potato seed systems, along with strong communication and leadership skills.

Prestations

Excellent working environment

Compensation package commensurate with experience

Two years fixed-term contract

Diversity and equal opportunity workplace

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in project coordination and management.
• At least 6 years in potato seed systems and pest/disease management.
• Proficiency in English; French and/or Malagasy is a plus.

Responsabilités

• Develop and maintain work plans and schedules.
• Monitor activities for timely and quality completion.
• Build capacity and train partners in seed potato production.

Connaissances

Project management

Leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Communication

Agronomic practices

Formation

MSc in Agriculture

Description du poste

The project focuses on enhancing early generation and commercial seed potato production in Madagascar by strengthening local capacity in both the public and private sectors to supply quality seeds of in-demand, locally adapted varieties. It also aims to help smallholder farmers optimize their seed investments through better seed quality management and agricultural practices. To support the project leader, a dynamic, experienced professional with expertise in seed systems, early-generation seed production, potato farming practices, pest and disease management, and variety release is needed.

The Position: The selected candidate will be based at FIFAMANOR in Antsirabe. They will supervise consultants and report to the Senior Scientist.

Key Responsibilities:

• Understand and internalize the project mission and contribute to achieving goals effectively and sustainably.
• Develop and maintain detailed work plans and schedules, identifying and managing project partners.
• Monitor and ensure activities are completed on time, within budget, and meet quality standards.
• Oversee daily project activities in collaboration with FIFAMANOR teams and partners.
• Support public and private partners, ensuring active engagement and capacity building.
• Establish and maintain relationships with government services, research stations, NGOs, and farmer groups.
• Ensure timely preparation and submission of technical and financial reports.
• Present project results and outcomes at professional meetings.
• Document lessons learned and best practices.
• Build capacity of partners on seed potato production, field multiplication, and sandponics technology.
• Train on seed management, soil fertility, and agronomic practices through innovation sites.
• Facilitate field testing and variety identification for national registration.
• Provide technical support in disease detection and tissue culture for seed production.
• Develop locally adapted protocols for seed quality assurance.
• Design and implement farmer extension materials and use ICT platforms for outreach.

Requirements

• MSc in Agriculture or related fields (PhD preferred but not required).
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in project coordination, implementation, and management, including at least 6 years in potato seed systems, agricultural practices, seed storage, and pest/disease management.
• Strong project management, leadership, and team-building skills.
• Proven experience in project coordination and stakeholder engagement.
• Proficiency in organizational planning and budget management.
• Ability to work collaboratively in multi-disciplinary and cross-cultural teams.
• Willingness to travel and work in rural, resource-limited areas.
• Advanced communication skills in English; knowledge of French and/or Malagasy is a plus.

Why should you consider this opportunity?

· CIP is a global and reputable international organization with a strong, state-of-the-art R&D background.

· CIP is dedicated to achieving food security, improved nutrition and well-being, and gender equality for poor people in root and tuber farming and food systems of the developing world.

· CIP is a member of the CGIAR, a global research partnership for a food secure future dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing food and nutrition security, and improving natural resources.

What are we offering?

• Excellent working environment.
• Compensation package commensurate with experience.
• Two (2) years fixed-term contract with the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding.
• Work in an equal and diverse workplace.