Program Manager/Out-Grower Strategy Lead at African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF)

Role Purpose

• The TELA Program Manager / Out-Grower Strategy Lead will oversee the TELA Program (BMSS-Nigeria and ABMAN Plans) and lead the development and implementation of out-grower strategies in Nigeria. This role is responsible for managing the TELA-Nigeria Program’s overall operations in the country, fostering partnerships, and ensuring the successful integration of out-grower schemes to enhance hybrid seed production and sustainability.
• The TELA-Nigeria Program Manager / Out-Grower Strategy Lead is responsible for developing and executing strategies to effectively manage and optimize relationships with out-grower partners in Nigeria. This role involves working closely with farmers, suppliers, and internal teams to ensure the successful delivery of sustainable high-quality TELA hybrid seeds and meet program’s goals. The ideal candidate will possess strong strategic planning abilities, excellent interpersonal skills, and a deep understanding of agricultural practices, specifically in hybrid seeds production.

Duties and Responsibilities

Program Management:

• Coordinate and manage overall implementation of the TELA-Nigeria Program (Biotech Maize Seed System – BMSS-Nigeria and Accelerating Bt Maize Adoption in Nigeria – ABMAN Plans), ensuring alignment with the goals of both plans.
• Promote the TELA-Nigeria Program and benefits of TELA maize to enhance visibility and support among relevant audiences in Nigeria.
• Contribute to the strategic planning of the TELA-Nigeria Program.
• Ensure compliance with Program’s goals, regulatory requirements, and stakeholder expectations in Nigeria.
• Identify potential risks to the Program and develop mitigation strategies to effectively address them.
• Develop and manage TELA-Nigeria Program’s budgets, timelines, and deliverables.
• Prepare and present regular progress reports to senior management and stakeholders.

Out-Grower Strategy Development:

• Design and implement out-grower strategies that align with TELA objectives to enhance seed production and timely meet seed production targets.
• Identify and recruit suitable large-scale out-growers to participate in the program.
• Negotiate contracts and agreements with out-growers, ensuring favorable terms and compliance with company standards.
• Develop training modules and provide support to out-growers on best practices in seed production to enhance productivity and seed quality.
• Regularly monitor out-grower activities, providing technical support, and guidance throughout the seed production cycle.
• Monitor and evaluate the performance of out-growers, providing feedback and guidance for improvement.
• Identify potential risks by out-growers and develop strategies to mitigate them.

Partnership and Stakeholder Management:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including Federal government, State governments, government agencies, NGOs, private sector partners, seed growers and farmers.
• Collaborate with research institutions and agricultural experts to incorporate best practices and innovative solutions in commercialization of TELA hybrids.
• Represent the TELA program at government meetings, industry events, conferences, and meetings.

Operational Excellence:

• Ensure the efficient and effective use of resources within the TELA-Nigeria program.
• Implement and maintain high standards of quality and safety across all TELA-Nigeria Program activities.
• Develop and implement risk management strategies to mitigate potential challenges and negative publicity.

Data Management and Reporting:

• Collect, analyze, and interpret data related to the TELA-Nigeria Program, cultivation of TELA hybrids, and seed out-grower activities.
• Use data-driven insights to inform decision-making and TELA-Nigeria Program strategy adjustments and implementation.
• Maintain comprehensive and precise records of all Program’s activities.
• Prepare and submit accurate and timely reports to stakeholders and management.

Competencies

Corporate Competencies

• Project Management: Expertise in planning, executing, and monitoring projects.
• Agricultural Knowledge: In-depth understanding of crop production, pest management, and sustainable farming practices.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop and implement effective out-grower strategies.
• Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills for reporting and stakeholder engagement.
• Data Analysis: Proficiency in analysing data to drive insights and improvements.
• Leadership: Capability to lead and motivate a team, managing performance and development.
• Problem Solving: Ability to identify issues and develop effective solutions.
• Strong advocacy and communication skills including effective public relations.
• Strong diplomatic and negotiation skills and nimble to changing environments and relationships.
• Ability to write/edit good reports, impact stories and minutes of meetings.
• High-level interpersonal and cross-cultural skills including ability to build alliances and collaborative relationships with sensitivity to diversity.
• Ability to maintain high standards of integrity; establish straightforward, productive relationships; treating individuals with fairness and respect.

Qualifications

Education

• Minimum of a Master’s degree in Agriculture, Agribusiness, Project Management, or a related field.

Experience

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in government affairs, project management, and agricultural development.
• Proven experience in developing and managing out-grower schemes.
• Strong understanding of agricultural practices, crop management, and farming systems development.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a dynamic environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Willingness to travel to project and seed production sites as required.

Language Requirements

• Fluency in written and spoken English.
• A working knowledge of French would be an added advantage.