Head of Mission for Rural Livelihood Project (Madagascar)

About the role

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is seeking a senior professional to lead the implementation of the Rural Livelihood Productivity and Resilience Project (RIZ PLUS) in Madagascar. Reporting to the IITA Country Representative and working under the Consortium Steering Committee, the Head of Mission will ensure the project’s operational, technical and financial performance over a 32‑month period.

Key responsibilities

• Manage the Coordination Unit and oversee inter‑institutional steering of the project consortium.
• Ensure methodological quality, contractual compliance and economic performance of all deliverables.
• Coordinate technical and operational activities in the field, including planning, procurement and monitoring.
• Organise and facilitate communication and coordination meetings with field teams, partners and local authorities.
• Supervise multidisciplinary field teams (e‑voucher agents, agricultural advisors and support staff) and provide technical guidance.
• Develop and monitor work plans, annual budgets and 100‑day operational plans.
• Support producer organisations and coordinate interventions with local partners and administrative bodies.
• Collect, analyse and consolidate performance and impact data for monitoring and evaluation.

Required profile

• Proven experience in managing large‑scale agricultural development projects.
• Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and coordinate with multiple stakeholders.
• Strong background in contract management, especially with World Bank‑financed programmes.
• Experience in budgeting, procurement and financial oversight.

Required skills