Head of Mission – Rural Livelihood Project (Madagascar)

About the role

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is seeking a Head of Mission to lead the Rural Livelihood Productivity and Resilience Project (RIZ PLUS) in Madagascar. This senior position oversees the Coordination Unit, ensures contractual compliance, and drives the economic performance of a 32‑month World Bank‑financed initiative.

Key responsibilities

• Manage the operational and inter‑institutional aspects of the Coordination Unit and Consortium.
• Coordinate all technical and field activities of the RIZ PLUS project.
• Facilitate institutional communication and organize coordination meetings with field teams and partners.
• Oversee contract management with the client and World Bank, including full procurement control.
• Supervise and support field teams (e‑voucher agents, agricultural advisors, and support staff).
• Develop and monitor annual work plans, budgets, and 100‑day operational plans.
• Coordinate field interventions with local partners, authorities, and producer organisations.
• Provide technical and organisational support to beneficiary producer organisations.
• Lead monitoring and evaluation, including data collection, analysis, and impact reporting.

Required profile

• Proven experience in operational management of large development projects.
• Strong background in agricultural or rural development initiatives.
• Experience working with donor‑funded programmes, preferably World Bank projects.
• Ability to supervise multidisciplinary field teams and manage multi‑stakeholder coordination.
• Expertise in contract and procurement management.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to lead a high‑impact agricultural development project in Madagascar.
• Collaboration with international research and development partners.
• Professional growth within a renowned CGIAR institution.