IFDC-An International Center for Soil Fertility and Agricultural Development

DIRECTOR, IFDC-AFRICA

IFDC is seeking a Director of its Africa Division to be posted in Lomé, Togo, West Africa. As an international staff position, the Director of the Africa Division reports directly to the President and Chief Executive Officer, IFDC Headquarters, Muscle Shoals, Alabama, U.S.A. The principal duties include providing leadership to technical and administrative staff within the Africa Division. The position is responsible for accomplishing the Africa Division's goals and objectives, which include all programs and support functions. The Director is responsible for developing and directing IFDC’s rural development initiatives, which include the participatory development of more sustainable agriculture, reinforcement of farmers’ organizations and the private sector, and preservation of natural resources.

This position requires a thorough knowledge of sub-Saharan Africa, particularly west Africa, and its agriculture; an understanding of the technological, social, economic, and governmental forces that exist within these countries; a thorough knowledge of soil fertility issues; the ability to motivate subordinate staff (10-15 international and 40 or more regional, national and local support staff) to complete work timely while maintaining quality; and the ability to make decisions to meet project objectives. A minimum of a Master's degree in soil science, agricultural economics, or related fields and 15 years of relevant work experience in agricultural development and/or rural development are required. Experience in coordinating development projects in Africa and other regions is highly desirable. The incumbent must be fluent in English and French and have the ability to communicate effectively (both written and oral) and must be skilled in effective writing and managing a team of multidisciplinary staff.

BENEFITS: The Salary will be paid in U.S. dollars and will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. As an annual employee posted in Lomé, Togo, the benefits package will include annual, sick, and home leave; insurance (medical, life, AD&D, LTD, travel life); retirement; applicable post differential and post allowance; housing and utilities allowance; and settling in, guard, and educational allowances.

Qualified applicants are invited to send an up-to-date curriculum vitae including three references to the Personnel Officer, IFDC, PO Box 2040, Muscle Shoals, Alabama 35662, U.S.A., or fax to 1-256-381-7408; or email dedwards@ifdc.org. The closing date for acceptance of applications is September 15, 2003. Additional information about the institute can be obtained at www.ifdc.org