Sustainable Agri-Food System (SAS) Director
CIMMYTState of Mexico, Mexico
Posted October 18, 2025
Full Time
About the Company
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. CIMMYT is a core CGIAR Research Center, a global research partnership for a food-secure future, dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing food and nutrition security and improving natural resources.
Job Description
CIMMYT is seeking a visionary Sustainable Agrifood System (SAS) Director to lead their program focused on systems science and scaling to deliver science and innovation for a secure food system. This role involves driving innovation, strengthening agricultural resilience, fostering partnerships, and ensuring sustainable growth and talent development. The position reports to the Chief Science and Innovation Officer.
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 a related field.
- Expertise in genetics, plant breeding, or conservation biology.
- Experience working with diverse cross disciplinary teams.
- Proven track record of leading and managing complex research programs with international scope.
- Demonstrated success in securing funding and managing large-scale research budgets.
- Exceptional relationship management skills.
- A results-driven, agile, collaborative and humble leadership style.
Benefits
- Competitive international remuneration package
- Housing allowance
- Vehicle access
- Health and life insurance
- Educational allowance
- Paid holidays
- Annual home travel airfare
- Contributory retirement plan
- Relocation support
