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.

For more information, visit cimmyt.org.

The Regional Business Services Manager will play a critical role in strengthening governance, risk management, and operational efficiency across country offices within the region for Business Services (BS). This position aims to ensure that country offices are aligned with organizational goals, adhere to policies, and operate effectively within their strategic mandates. The role will involve regular monitoring, capacity building, and strategic advisory to enhance the overall performance and accountability of country operations.

This position will support the Regional Director and Management by providing strategic leadership, aligning country/ regional activities with institutional goals, facilitating coordination between HQ and country/regional offices, and making localized decisions to address specific challenges and opportunities. Oversight, monitoring/ assurance, and compliance are essential aspects of this function.

The Regional Business Services Manager will report directly to the Regional Director and work closely with various functional leads at HQ to ensure alignment and consistent support to country offices. Regular updates and ad-hoc reports will be expected to inform regional leadership of key developments, challenges, and progress.

This position reports to the Regional Director of Asia and functionally reports to the Director of Business Services Department.

Objectives of the Position

• To ensure country offices operate in alignment with organizational strategic objectives, policies, and compliance frameworks.
• To provide support to key functions such as procurement, fleet, travel, and facilities within country offices, ensuring effective and transparent management practices.
• To act as a liaison between country offices and the Regional/HQ teams, fostering a collaborative environment and identifying areas where additional support or resources are needed.
• To support country offices in identifying risks and implementing risk mitigation strategies, ensuring resilience and sustainability of operations.
• Support the Regional Director and Management by providing strategic leadership, aligning country/ regional activities with institutional goals, facilitating coordination between HQ and country/regional offices, and making localized decisions to address specific challenges and opportunities.
• Collaborate closely with other Regional Managers and focal points of the Operations Chapter to ensure the seamless adaptation and implementation of policies, procedures, and new system architecture (e.g., ERP and contract systems), focusing on process improvement while maintaining business continuity during the transition.

Key Responsibilities

A. Strategic Support and Alignment

• Conduct regular assessments of country office operations to ensure alignment with organizational mission, strategic objectives, and regional priorities.
• Review the strategic impact of country office activities and initiatives, providing insights and recommendations for improvement or adjustments.

B. Governance and Compliance

• Verify adherence to organizational policies, Delegation of Authority (DOA), and compliance standards in BS areas.
• Conduct spot checks or audits of country office operations to ensure compliance with governance requirements, providing recommendations for corrective action if necessary.
• Collaborate with Finance to review compliance, holding country offices accountable for any irregularities or mismanagement.

D. Operational Effectiveness

• Monitor the operational performance of country offices, identifying bottlenecks or inefficiencies in key areas (procurement, fleet, travel, etc.).
• Assist country offices in implementing process improvements and capacity-building initiatives to enhance operational efficiency.
• Provide high-level support to ensure the effective utilization of resources (e.g., fleet, facilities) and alignment with cost management strategies.

E. Workforce and Talent Development

• Evaluate leadership and management practices within country offices, providing mentorship and guidance to enhance team engagement and morale.
• Support talent development initiatives, focusing on building local capacity in alignment with organizational needs and regional strategies.
• Work with HR to address workforce gaps and implement strategies to strengthen team cohesion and performance across the region.

F. Risk Management and Compliance in Procurement and Contracts

• Ensure compliance with procurement policies and DOA for all contracts with vendors and service providers at the country office level.
• Assess high-risk vendors or contractual agreements, recommending additional oversight or corrective actions where necessary.
• Facilitate the implementation of framework agreements and best practices in supplier relationship management across country offices.

G. Stakeholder Engagement and Representation

• Strengthen relationships with local suppliers, to enhance the organization’s reputation and ensure alignment with local practices.
• Act as a representative of the Regional/HQ team in country offices, building trust and ensuring effective communication with key stakeholders.

Requirements

• Advanced degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, International Relations, or a related field.
• Minimum 7 years of relevant experience in regional structures, operations management, governance, or a similar role within an international organization.
• Strong knowledge of compliance frameworks, DOA policies, and operational best practices.
• Familiarity with BS functional areas such as procurement, fleet and travel within decentralized structures.
• Proven experience in internal control, or strategic compliance.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills, with the ability to build relationships and influence stakeholders at various levels.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to identify and address complex operational challenges.
• High adaptability and cultural sensitivity to work effectively across diverse regional contexts.
• This position requires regular travel to country offices within the region to conduct oversight and provide in-person support as needed.
• Excellent communication skills in spoken and written English.
• The selected candidate must exhibit the following competencies: Problem-Solving, Client Orientation, Good Communication, Multicultural Awareness and Collaboration.

Benefits

The position is for an initial fixed-term contract of 12 months, after which further employment is subject to performance and the continued availability of funds. CIMMYT offers an attractive remuneration package, with a range of benefits including health insurance.

Candidates must apply online for IN24265 Regional Business Services Manager

Screening and follow-up of applications will begin on January 7th, 2025.

Applications must include a CV with contact details (telephone and email address) of 3 work-related references along with the confirmation that Recruitment can contact them) and a cover letter.

Incomplete applications will not be taken into consideration.

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. Women are encouraged to apply.