Background:
The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) (www.iita.org), a non-profit organization based in Africa.
Job Description
The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) (www.iita.org), a non-profit organization based in Africa seeks a dynamic and enthusiastic team player to join its team in Ghana as Project Manager – Yam Improvement for Income and Food Security in West Africa (YIIFSWA) project.
Position/Responsibilities:
The primary responsibilities of the Project Manager will include:
• Be the main contact for YIIFSWA project in Ghana
• Provide effective and efficient management, guidance, cohesion, accountability, and profile to the project activities in Ghana
• Facilitate the work of an inter-disciplinary, international and culturally diverse project team; and manage financial assets in concordance with the results framework of the project and organizational procedures
• Coordinates all project activities in Ghana including detailed planning and regular review of progress with Objective Coordinators and implementation teams; and ensure collaboration and communication between various partners and stakeholders
• Apply best practices and tools for project management, including monitoring of progress and budget, procurements, data reposition and troubleshooting
• Manage contracts between IITA and project partners in Ghana
• Proactively participate in building/strengthening of teams and partnerships
• Prepare and submit technical, financial and other reports to the Project Manager
• In collaboration with the Project Manager, organize annual project planning and review meetings, monitoring tours, and technical workshops in Ghana
• Ensure effective communication within the project team, identify shortfalls, and devise contingency plans
• Be the liaison person for consultations with national R&D leaders, private sector, non-governmental organizations and other stakeholders on project related matters
General Information: Initial appointment is for three years, IITA offers a competitive remuneration package
Required Skills or Experience
The candidate should have a Masters/PhD degree in plant or agricultural sciences from a recognized university
Core Competencies:
• At least 5 years of experience in agriculture R&D and project management
• Working experience/exposure to international organizations and interdisciplinary agriculture research
• Familiarity with agriculture and farming systems in Ghana. Working experience with yam (Dioscorea spp.) will be an asset
• Experience in team management skills
• Proficiency in use of computers, database management software, Internet-based tools and other electronic communication tools
• Fluency in oral and written English; working knowledge of popular Ghanaian languages
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
How To Apply
Applications including Curriculum Vitae, names and addresses of three referees should be addressed to the:
Country Representative
IITA Ghana Office
PMB L56
University of Ghana
Legon – Accra
Or email: iitaghana@gmail.com
Closing Date: The position will remain open until a suitable candidate is found.
IITA is an equal opportunity employer and particularly welcomes applications from women candidates
Closing date: 15 Dec, 2011
