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. With impact in over 80 countries and 1,500 staff, we collaborate with hundreds of partners and are part of the global network of CGIAR research centers, delivering science for a food-secure future. For more information, visit www.cimmyt.org.
Become CIMMYT’s Next Director of Human Resources to Shape the Future of Agriculture
Are you ready to lead human resources at an international organization committed to agricultural innovation and sustainable development? CIMMYT is seeking a strategic and visionary HR Director to enhance our workforce capabilities and drive forward our mission to improve the livelihoods of farmers in the Global South.
As our new HR Director, you will utilize your extensive experience in HR management to oversee and optimize our human resources operations. Reporting directly to the Chief Operations Officer, you will play a crucial role in shaping our organizational culture and ensuring the effective functioning of our programs both at headquarters and internationally.
Based at our headquarters in Texcoco, Mexico, you will:
Lead Our Strategic Human Resource Management:
- Devise and implement cutting-edge human resource and administrative policies and procedures that bolster CIMMYT’s mission, ensuring they are effective, efficient, transparent, and promote equal opportunities in line with CIMMYT’s 2030 Strategy.
- Work closely with HR officers across global offices to review and support updates to human resources procedures including terms of employment, organizational structures, and compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.
- Manage the recruitment process of national and international staff efficiently, keeping track of all developments and enhancing procedures to reduce turnover and personnel issues.
- Coordinate comprehensive performance and talent management strategies, address employee disputes and grievances, fostering a supportive and dynamic work environment.
- Assist in driving strategic HR initiatives that support cultural change and effective change management, enhancing CIMMYT’s standing within CGIAR and among international peers.
- Engage with senior leadership to ensure HR strategies are robust and support the overarching goals of CIMMYT, emphasizing compliance and strategic alignment in all HR practices.
Enhance Operational Management and Compliance:
- Monitor and regularly update personnel records, ensuring all data are current and accessible. Create efficient processes that enhance overall HR functionality.
- Work closely with relevant internal stakeholders to align HR development needs with operational plans and budgets, ensuring all departments are synchronized and informed of HR objectives and updates.
- Ensure that the organization’s financial and human resources plans are integrated, overseeing payroll structures and payment procedures for both national and international staff.
- Collaborate with the Security Officer to brief personnel on security protocols and health safety measures, maintaining a safe and secure working environment across all CIMMYT locations.
Stimulate Team Leadership:
- Guide a diverse and multi-functional team in HR and administrative services, instilling a culture of innovation, quality, and collaboration across CIMMYT. Ensure all HR initiatives support CIMMYT’s strategic goals and reflect the organization’s core values.
- Actively participate in strategic planning sessions with the Director General, Chief Operations Officer, and other leadership team members to ensure comprehensive HR support for all CIMMYT programs and projects.
- Develop and implement performance metrics tailored to HR team needs, fostering an environment that rewards innovation and acknowledges individual and team achievements.
- Offer ongoing advice and guidance on talent retention and staff well-being, positioning CIMMYT as a leader in HR practices within the agricultural research community.
- Facilitate cross-organizational working and communication, enhancing synergy and alignment among various departments within CIMMYT.
- Regularly report to the COO and leadership team about HR progress and challenges, advocating for strategies that mitigate risks and leverage opportunities. Keep the leadership informed of the latest developments in HR and ensure alignment with global best practices.
- Academic degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field, complemented by a proven track record in HR management and strategic development.
- At least 5 years of progressive leadership experience within an international organization, demonstrating the ability to effectively manage human resources, implement organizational change, and influence HR policies at a strategic level.
- Demonstrated expertise in developing and implementing comprehensive HR strategies and policies, with a strong ability to oversee significant organizational initiatives and adapt to evolving workforce needs.
- Deep knowledge of the principles of human resources management, including talent acquisition, staff development, performance management, and employee engagement.
- Robust experience in HR project management and administration, ideally within international non-profit organizations or similar complex environments.
- Strong negotiation and communication skills, with fluency in English required; proficiency in additional languages is highly desirable.
- Demonstrated ability to lead diverse and high-performing teams, fostering a culture of innovation and collaborative success across cultural and geographic divides.
- You exhibit the following competencies: Strategic Impact, Operational Efficiency, People Management, Networking and Communication, and Individual Impact.
What We Offer:
- Step into a pivotal position where you can significantly influence the future of agricultural research and development. As HR Director, you will lead initiatives to optimize workforce management and enhance organizational culture, directly impacting CIMMYT’s mission to improve the livelihoods of farmers worldwide.
- Your expertise in human resources will be essential in steering organizational change, developing robust HR strategies, and aligning them with CIMMYT’s 2030 Strategy. You will play a key role in ensuring that our HR initiatives support and enhance our research and innovation efforts.
- Work under the guidance of committed executive leadership that is deeply invested in personal development and strategic HR contributions. Your role will be central to implementing progressive HR policies that support CIMMYT’s objectives.
- Thrive in a cooperative and diverse work environment that values gender equality and teamwork. CIMMYT is dedicated to fostering an inclusive culture that celebrates diversity and facilitates collaborative success.
- The role is contracted for an initial term of three (3) years, subject to performance evaluations and the continued provision of funding, with the possibility of extension and growth within the organization.
- You will enjoy a competitive international compensation package, inclusive of a housing allowance, a company car, extensive health and life insurance plans, educational support for dependents, generous vacation time, annual flights for home visits, an active role in our retirement plan, and comprehensive relocation support.
Ready to Join Us?
Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply using the following link. The application deadline is by close of business Friday, September 27th, 2024. Applications should include a motivational letter, a CV, and relevant documentation of qualifications and experiences. Incomplete applications will not be taken into consideration. For further information on the selection process, please contact Mr. Sebastian Volkers, founder and principal consultant at Volkers Remarkable Talent, sebastian@volkers.dk. Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
CIMMYT is an equal opportunity employer. It fosters a multicultural work environment that values gender equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity. Female candidates are encouraged to apply.