WorldFish is
an international, nonprofit research organization that harnesses the
potential of fisheries and aquaculture to reduce hunger and poverty.
Globally, more than one billion people obtain most of their animal
protein from fish and approximately 800 million depend on fisheries and
aquaculture for their livelihoods.
Utilizing
its scientific expertise, its networks and partnerships, and an
innovative ‘research in development’ approach, WorldFish increases the
productivity and sustainability of fisheries and aquaculture and
improves the lives of poor people who rely on them.
WorldFish is a member of CGIAR, a global agriculture research partnership for a food secure future.
A unique and exciting opportunity has arisen to contribute to the WorldFish mission.
DISCIPLINE DIRECTOR
(Policy, Economics and Social Science)
Background
WorldFish is seeking a highly
motivated and talented individual for the role of Discipline Director,
Policy, Economics and Social Science, based in Penang, Malaysia.
Reporting to the Research Director, the incumbent will provide
leadership and strategic oversight to ensure that our research in this
domain tackles the right questions and that we maintain high standards
of quality and effectiveness. As a member of the senior leadership team,
you will also contribute to center-wide leadership and management. In a
rapidly growing organization, the Policy, Economics and Social Science
team is currently comprised of over 50 researchers, including 23
PhD-level researchers, distributed in 10 offices in Asia, Africa, and
the Pacific. Researchers from a broad range of social science-related
disciplines lead work in key research areas that include: value chain
development, agriculture innovation systems, fish sector modeling and
forecasting, impacts of climate change, gender equality and social
equity, natural resource governance, human nutrition, technology
adoption, M&E and impact assessment. The discipline embraces a range
of qualitative and quantitative research methods, with a strong
commitment to participatory action research and applied policy analysis,
to leverage the lessons from our field engagements in ways that
contribute to development outcomes at scale.
Key responsibilities
- Provide strategic leadership of the discipline across the full range of the Center’s activities, including cross-discipline and cross-CGIAR integration and co-ordination.
- Prioritize and nurture strategic science partnerships with leading universities and research institutes.
- Identify and anticipate future capacity needs in the discipline and initiate timely recruitment action and capacity strengthening efforts.
- Directly manage performance of senior science members of the Discipline to set and maintain high standards, and coach and mentor more junior members.
- Lead interdisciplinary teams, and partner with Regional Directors, to conceptualize and attract funding for both regionally-focused and global projects.
Essential skills and qualifications
- PhD in relevant discipline, combined with applied experience to provide technical guidance and leadership to teams in the discipline.
- At least 8 years research management experience, with demonstrated leadership capability and strong mentoring skills.
- Ability to identify, develop, fundraise for, and manage multi-partner and multi-disciplinary research projects.
- Strong publication track record in a relevant area (fisheries and aquaculture knowledge helpful but not required).
- Well-developed communication skills, including excellent command of written and spoken English.
- Experience living and working in developing countries.
Timeframe and location
This position will be based at WorldFish Headquarters, with significant travel to countries in Asia, Africa and the Pacific.
Interviews are expected to be held in Penang during the week of 5-9
October 2015. The successful candidate will be offered a regular 3-year
staff contract, with possibility of extension depending on performance and funding. Only short-listed candidates will be notified.
Our commitment
WorldFish is committed to
promoting a work environment where diversity of thought, leadership
style, culture and experience is valued. We support individual
performance and potential in achieving our organizational goals and
mission. Qualified women and professionals from developing countries are
strongly encouraged to apply.
How to apply
Interested applicants are invited to submit the following information:
- A cover letter including a 500-word (max) description of why you are an ideal candidate and what you would bring to the role;
- A current curriculum vitae including your publications list;
- Names and contacts (telephone, fax, and e-mail addresses) of three professional referees who are familiar with your qualifications and work experience.
Screening will start on 7 September 2015, and will continue until the position is filled. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
To apply for this position, please send your application to worldfish-hr@cgiar.org
WorldFish is committed to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and strives for staff diversity in gender and nationality.
