Genetic Resources Program (GRP) Director

Description

CIMMYT is a cutting edge, non-profit, international organization dedicated to solving tomorrow's problems today. It is entrusted with fostering improved quantity, quality, and dependability of production systems and basic cereals such as maize, wheat, triticale, sorghum, millets, and associated crops through applied agricultural science, particularly in the Global South, through building strong partnerships. This combination enhances the livelihood trajectories and resilience of millions of resource-poor farmers, while working towards a more productive, inclusive, and resilient agrifood system within planetary boundaries. For more information, visit cimmyt.org.

Shape the Future of Agriculture: Become CIMMYT’s Next Genetic Resources Program (GRP) Director

Are you a visionary leader with a passion for harnessing genetic resources to drive innovation in global agriculture? Do you have the strategic foresight, scientific expertise, and leadership acumen to shape the future of genetic resource utilization for sustainable food systems? If so, CIMMYT invites you to lead its Genetic Resources Program (GRP) as its next Program Director.

In this role, you will lead a globally recognized program dedicated to the conservation, enhancement, and effective utilization of genetic resources. You will drive innovation in genetic resource management, strengthening agricultural resilience and productivity while addressing both technical and organizational challenges. This position requires a dynamic leader with the expertise to advance genebank science, biometrics and quantitative genetics, data science, seed health, trait discovery, and precision genetics, while reporting to the Chief Science and Innovation Officer.

Based at our headquarters in Texcoco, Mexico, you will:

Catalyze Research and Innovation Through Visionary Leadership:

• Set a Bold Scientific Vision: Define and execute a forward-thinking strategy for the Genetic Resources Program, ensuring alignment with CIMMYT’s Excellence in Science and Innovation objectives.
• Advance Genetic Research: Lead cutting-edge research in genetic conservation, trait discovery, and applied genetics, enhancing agricultural resilience and productivity.
• Integrate Emerging Technologies: Harness data science, biometrics, and quantitative genetics, and precision genetics to position CIMMYT as a global leader in genetic innovation.

Build Strategic Partnerships and Global Influence:

• Strengthen CIMMYT’s Global Presence: Advocate for CIMMYT’s research agenda in international forums, influencing policies and collaborations at the highest levels.
• Expand Collaborative Networks: Develop partnerships with CGIAR centers, National Agricultural Research Systems, universities, and private sector players to drive collective impact.
• Enhance Research Visibility: Engage with key stakeholders to promote CIMMYT’s scientific outputs, securing its role as a leader in genetic resource management.

Ensure Sustainable Growth and Talent Development:

• Secure Funding and Resources: Lead fundraising efforts, securing sustainable financial support through grants, institutional partnerships, and donor engagement.
• Inspire and Develop Talent: Mentor and lead a multidisciplinary team, fostering a high-performance culture that supports scientific excellence and professional growth.
• Drive Operational Excellence: Oversee budgeting, resource allocation, and compliance with international treaties, ensuring responsible research and long-term sustainability.

Requirements

• 10–15+ years of distinguished leadership experience in senior scientific or executive roles within international research organizations, academia, or industry.
• PhD in Plant Science, Genetics, Agronomy, or a related field, with expertise in genetics, plant breeding, or conservation biology.
• Proven track record of leading and managing complex, multidisciplinary research programs with international scope.
• Demonstrated success in securing funding and managing large-scale research budgets.
• Strong international and developing country experience, with a commitment to enhancing food security through genetic innovation.
• Expertise in managing research within international legal frameworks and intellectual property agreements.
• Exceptional relationship management skills, with the ability to build and sustain strategic partnerships across academia, government, and industry.
• Outstanding communication and advocacy skills, with experience representing research programs at international meetings and forums.
• A results-driven, collaborative leadership style, fostering teamwork, innovation, and high scientific standards.

Our Commitment to You:

• Lead Genetic Innovation: Drive a globally recognized program that pioneers genetic resource innovation, enhancing agricultural resilience and delivering impact for millions of farmers.
• Foster Scientific Excellence: Lead a team of world-class scientists, supported by CIMMYT’s executive leadership, to cultivate a culture of cutting-edge research and scientific rigor.
• Shape the Future of Food Security: Ensure that genetic resource conservation and utilization contribute directly to global food security and climate resilience.
• Drive Research Leadership: Strengthen the Genetic Resources Program’s position as a leader in genebank science, biometrics, trait discovery, and precision genetics.
• Join a Global Network: Be part of a collaborative and inclusive research community, working alongside leading international institutions, governments, and private sector partners.
• Enjoy Long-Term Stability: The position is offered as a three-year, fixed-term contract, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability.
• Receive Comprehensive Benefits: Benefit from a competitive international remuneration package, including a housing allowance, access to a vehicle, health and life insurance, an educational allowance for dependent children, paid holidays, annual home travel airfare, a contributory retirement plan, and substantial relocation support.

Benefits

Ready to Join Us?

Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply using the following link. The application deadline is May 23th, 2025.

Applications should include a motivational letter, a CV, and relevant documentation of qualifications and experiences.

Please ensure that your application is complete, as incomplete submissions will not be considered.

For further information about the selection process, please contact Mr. Sebastian Volkers, Principal Consultant at Volkers Remarkable Talent at sebastian@volkers.dk.

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

CIMMYT is an equal opportunity employer. We foster a multicultural work environment that values gender equity, teamwork, and respect for diversity. Female candidates are encouraged to apply.

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