Position Overview

The Country Representative for Nigeria serves as the primary leader and representative of WorldFish in the country. The role involves:

• Driving the strategic development and management of WorldFish’s ‘research for development’ portfolio in Nigeria.
• Building and nurturing partnerships with stakeholders, including donors, government agencies, research institutions, and civil society organizations.
• Leading efforts to expand WorldFish’s presence and impact in Nigeria by securing funding and implementing impactful initiatives.
• Managing the Nigeria country office’s operations and staff while aligning the organization’s activities with national and global objectives.

The Country Representative may also contribute research expertise to support the program’s goals, depending on their background and skills.

Key Responsibilities

Country Program Development and Implementation:

• Develop and implement a strategic direction for the Nigeria country office that aligns with:
  • National priorities.
  • Stakeholder needs in Nigeria’s aquatic food systems.
  • WorldFish’s Research and Innovation Strategy.
• Lead the formulation, funding, and management of ‘research for development’ projects, actively contributing to proposal design and development.
• Ensure strong integration between country programs and global initiatives.
• Oversee the delivery, monitoring, and reporting of programs, ensuring impactful outcomes.
• Provide strategic guidance to senior management on the direction and status of aquatic food systems research and development in Nigeria.

Representation and Engagement:

• Foster relationships with the Nigerian government, NGOs, CSOs, and research organizations, representing WorldFish’s interests.
• Maintain current and relevant hosting agreements with key stakeholders.
• Stay informed of donor priorities, government initiatives, and country plans, ensuring alignment with WorldFish’s objectives.
• Coordinate engagement with CGIAR’s regional and global programs.
• Strengthen partnerships with donors, research partners, and other stakeholders to enhance the visibility and impact of WorldFish’s work.
• Represent WorldFish in national, regional, and global forums as needed.

Research Development, Implementation, and Adoption:

• Design and execute ‘research for development’ programs focused on aquatic food systems.
• Collaborate with WorldFish Science Directors, staff, and partners to align research with:
  • National priorities.
  • WorldFish’s Research and Innovation Strategy.
  • CGIAR’s goals.
• Promote the dissemination and adoption of research findings through stakeholder engagements and communication efforts.

Fundraising and Budget Management:

• Lead and contribute to fundraising efforts, identifying opportunities and preparing high-quality proposals.
• Monitor the financial health of the country program, ensuring alignment with funding targets.
• Oversee office management, including budgeting, risk management, data management, and reporting.

Office Management, People Management, and Administration:

• Ensure effective management of resources, including human, financial, and material assets, in collaboration with WorldFish functional units.
• Oversee recruitment, staff planning, and professional development, promoting a positive and inclusive work environment.
• Foster collaboration within the team and with global science units to deliver high-quality research outputs.
• Implement and enforce safety and security protocols.
• Advise senior management on risks and recommend mitigation strategies.

Requirements

• Education: Master’s or Ph.D. in fisheries, aquaculture, aquatic resources management, international development, environmental science, or related fields.
• Experience: At least 10 years of experience leading research programs in an international development context.
• Technical Expertise: Strong knowledge of aquatic food systems and relevant challenges.
• Partnership Building: Proven ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders, including senior decision-makers and donors.
• Fundraising: Successful track record in proposal development and grant acquisition.
• Program Management: Demonstrated experience in managing complex projects and disseminating knowledge.
• Leadership: Strategic leadership skills with a commitment to WorldFish’s vision, mission, and values.
• Communication: Proficiency in English with excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Team Management: Proven ability to lead diverse teams, promote inclusion, and ensure staff well-being.
• Publications: Ability to write high-quality proposals, reports, and peer-reviewed research papers.

Desirable Skills:

• Additional language skills relevant to Nigeria or the region.
• Willingness to travel nationally, regionally, and globally as required.

Appointment Details

• Location: Ibadan, Nigeria.
• Contract: Three-year initial contract with potential for extension based on funding and performance.
• Travel: Regular international travel required.

How to Apply:

Interested and qualified candidates should visit www.redseasearch.com for more information and application details.