Project Coordinator At International Potato Center

The International Potato Center (CIP) seeks to recruit a dynamic Project Coordinator for the newly launched “Appui à la transformation et à la résilience des systèmes alimentaires de Madagascar à travers la recherche pour le développement” project funded World Bank and AfricaRice.

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 FIFAMAOR in Antsirabe. He/she will supervise consultants and will report to the Senior Scientist.

Key Responsibilities:

Project Management :

• 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.

Technical Competencies:

• 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.

Benefits
Why should you consider this opportunity?

• CIP is a global and reputable international organization that has 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 possibility of renewal subject on performance and availability of funds.
• Work in an equal and diverse workplace.