The Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) delivers research-based solutions that harness agricultural biodiversity and sustainably transform food systems to improve people’s lives in a climate crisis. Climate change, biodiversity loss, environmental degradation, and malnutrition are four interconnected global crises that have put at stake the wellbeing of our planet for years. Fueled by COVID-19, their impact on agriculture, landscapes, biodiversity, and humans is now stronger than ever. Reversing this negative trend is a challenge, but also an opportunity for bold choices and integrated solutions. Established in 2019, The Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT was created to address these four crises, maximizing impact for change at key points in the food system. The Alliance is a CGIAR Research Centre, a global research partnership for a food-secure future. Role Purpose The selected candidate will lead the Climate Action Lever at The Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, one of six research areas focused on delivering science-based innovations for sustainable food systems. The Climate Action Lever contributes to reducing climate risk by addressing food security, economic resilience, conflict, fragility, and other human insecurities through research on climate change adaptation and mitigation. Our work focuses on Climate Security and migration, Climate Services for Agriculture, achieving net zero, and Climate readiness. We generate outcomes through four key research areas: Research evidence, data science, and digital innovations; Finance and investments; Policies and institutions; Gender and social inclusion. The Director of Climate Action will provide strategic and scientific leadership under the guidance of the Associate Director General for Research Strategy and Innovation. The selected individual will oversee the work of the research teams within this Lever, collaborate with researchers from other areas of the organization, and pursue partnerships with other scientists in the CGIAR working on climate change-related issues. The Director will guide related partnership and initiative development and engage in resource mobilization to maintain a vibrant and robust research-for-impact portfolio. Major Duties and Responsibilities Research Strategy and Implementation Maintain and strengthen a coherent portfolio of research efforts on climate action that deliver science-based outputs supporting impact outcomes on climate change mitigation and adaptation. Support strategic evolution of the research agenda. Support implementation of the Climate Action research portfolio including net-zero development, climate security, climate services, and climate readiness. Guide the formulation of action plans in alignment with The Alliance’s Research and Innovation Strategy. Ensure delivery on activities related to the portfolio of the Climate Action Lever in accordance with project plans; provide oversight of the portfolio and project pipeline; encourage experimentation and innovation. Engage and support the development of research innovation networks within and outside the CGIAR. Ensure reporting of the contributions of the Climate Action Lever team to the institutional and research strategic objectives. Cultivate leadership within the team by delegating responsibilities and fostering exposure in national, regional, and international forums. Research Partnerships Serve as a spokesperson/thought-leader for Climate Action, representing in national, regional, and international fora. Identify and cultivate opportunities for strategic partnerships, research/innovation, and funding. Lead and/or participate in Climate Action resource mobilization efforts, coordinating funder engagements. Management and Organizational Integration Support collaboration across teams of Climate Action and the rest of the organization. Foster synergies and complementarities. Promote novel research for impact ideas. Facilitate cross-learning. Oversee responsible resource management of the Climate Action portfolio Guide the development of annual workplans and budgets and oversee their execution. Promote and support talent planning, development, and management. Profile Education and Experience Ph.D. degree in environmental science, geography, biophysical sciences, economics, or a relevant subject. Proven track record as a research leader, manager, and resource mobilization in climate action. Deep knowledge of the research-for-development landscape globally. Recognized as a lead scientist in climate change-related topics. Demonstrated ability to serve in a leadership role in building a unified culture for innovation. Record of success in mobilizing resources. Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills. Proven ability to integrate and inspire high-performing multidisciplinary teams. Ability to effectively build and communicate a common vision among diverse stakeholders. Excellent communicator and effective public speaker. Consistent record of upholding the highest ethical standards. Language(s) Excellent English competency, both in writing and speaking. Terms of Appointment It’s a 2-year contract, with extensive travel comprising over 60% of the role. Role Location The position is based in Nairobi or Cali. How to Apply & Key Steps in the Process SRI Executive is exclusively retained by The Alliance to undertake this assignment. If you wish to be considered for this position, please forward a copy of your CV in Microsoft Word format, along with any relevant documentation, as soon as possible and no later than 18 October 2024 to [email protected]. All information will be treated in the strictest confidence. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. During the recruitment process, should you demonstrate sufficient relevant experience, SRI Executive will require your cooperation in completing a Competency Profile. You will also be required to participate in several telephone or Microsoft Teams screening discussions. Based on the screening discussions, SRI Executive will provide a shortlist of recommended candidates to The Alliance for further review. First-round interviews will be conducted by video-conference. Please be aware that this appointment will require that you provide contact information for three referees. * Please note that this process may be subject to some change* . #J-18808-Ljbffr