Sustainable Agri-Food System

Overview Sustainable Agri-Food System (SAS) Director at CIMMYT. Join to lead the Sustainable Agrifood System (SAS) program, guiding systems science, co-creation, design thinking and scaling to drive innovation in global agriculture. The position reports to the Chief Science and Innovation Officer and is based at CIMMYT headquarters in Texcoco, Mexico. Responsibilities Catalyze research and innovation through visionary leadership: define and execute a forward-thinking strategy for the SAS program, aligning with CIMMYT’s Excellence in Science and Innovation objectives. Advance systems research: lead and support leadership in cutting-edge systems and scaling science, promote transdisciplinarity, and enhance agricultural resilience and productivity. Integrate new science and technologies: drive advances in data science, gender and inclusion, and real-time feedback monitoring as a global leader in sustainable agrifood systems. Build strategic partnerships and global influence: advocate for CIMMYT’s research agenda in international forums, expand networks with National Agricultural Research Systems, universities, private sector, and CGIAR centers, and raise research visibility. Ensure sustainable growth and talent development: lead fundraising efforts, mentor multidisciplinary teams, and oversee budgeting, resources, and policy compliance to ensure responsible research and long-term sustainability. Requirements 10–15+ years of distinguished leadership experience in senior scientific or executive roles within international research organizations, academia, or industry. PhD in Crop Science, Agronomy, Soil Science, Agroecology, Environmental Science, Climate Science, Agricultural or Development Economics, Sustainable Development or related field, with expertise in genetics, plant breeding, or conservation biology. Proven track record of interdisciplinary science leadership bridging biological, environmental, economic, policy, and systems perspectives on food and agriculture. Experience working with diverse cross-disciplinary teams reflecting the cross-sectoral nature of agrifood systems transformation. Proven ability to lead and manage complex, multidisciplinary research programs with international scope. Demonstrated success in securing funding and managing large-scale research budgets. Strong international and developing country experience with a commitment to enhancing food security through systems approaches. Expertise in managing research within international legal frameworks and intellectual property agreements. Exceptional relationship management skills and ability to build strategic partnerships across academia, government, and industry. Outstanding communication and advocacy skills, with experience representing research at international meetings and forums. Results-driven, agile, collaborative and humble leadership style that fosters teamwork, innovation, and high scientific standards. Benefits Lead innovation and drive development in Sustainable Agrifood Systems, steering a globally recognized program and delivering impact for millions of farmers. Foster scientific excellence by leading a team of world-class scientists and cultivating a culture of cutting-edge research. Contribute to global food security and climate resilience through strategic agrifood system research and scaling. Strengthen the SAS Program’s global leadership in systems research, innovation and scaling. Join a global, collaborative network with leading international institutions, governments, and private sector partners. Salary and benefits include a competitive international package, housing allowance, health and life insurance, dependent education allowance, paid holidays, home travel, retirement plan, and relocation support. How to Apply Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply. The application deadline is December 5, 2025. Applications should include a motivational letter, a CV, and documentation of qualifications and experiences. For further information about the selection process, contact Mr. Sebastian Volkers, Principal Consultant at Volkers Remarkable Talent ( ). Short-listed candidates will be contacted. CIMMYT is an equal opportunity employer and fosters a multicultural work environment that values gender equity, teamwork, and respect for diversity. Female candidates are encouraged to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr