Location: Los Baños, Philippines
Provides strategic leadership to the Research and Thought Leadership Department by directing the design, resource mobilization, implementation, and dissemination of high-quality research and policy initiatives that advance agricultural transformation and rural development in alignment with SEARCA's Five-Year Plan and regional development priorities.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & EXPECTED DELIVERABLES
A. Program Development and Planning
- Identify and develop research-for-development projects and operational plans aligned with SEARCA's Five-Year Plan and the needs of SEAMEO member countries
- Lead the preparation of high-quality concept notes, project proposals, and funding requests
- Conduct foresight and situational analysis to identify emerging regional trends and priority research gaps
- Establish results-based frameworks and manage the department's strategic project pipeline
B. Program Coordination, Management, and Implementation
- Oversee the full execution of research and policy programs to meet planned targets and outputs
- Ensure technical quality, ethical standards, and timely delivery of all activities
- Review and approve policy briefs, research reports, and publications; facilitate multi-stakeholder dialogues and policy engagements
C. Networking and Linkages
- Build and maintain strategic partnerships with donors, research institutions, government agencies, and regional bodies
- Represent SEARCA in regional and international fora, conferences, and policy meetings
- Manage high-level donor relations to secure funding and expand collaborative opportunities
D. Marketing and Communication
- Develop and execute a thought-leadership strategy to position SEARCA as a leading knowledge hub
- Ensure visibility and wide uptake of research outputs through appropriate communication and dissemination channels
E. Administrative and People Management
- Prepare the department's annual operational plan and budget; oversee day-to-day operations and compliance with policies
- Lead, mentor, and evaluate the performance of department staff; foster a culture of innovation, inclusivity, and continuous improvement
- Ensure risk management, quality control, and efficient use of resources
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Education: Doctorate Degree in Agriculture, Agricultural Economics, Natural Resources Management, Economics, Environmental Science, or a related field.
Work Experience: Ten (10) years of progressive experience in research, policy analysis, or development program management; at least three (3) years in a senior leadership or management role; proven track record in proposal writing, resource mobilization, and successful implementation of regional programs.
Skills: Strong knowledge of regional agricultural and rural development issues; proficiency in quantitative and qualitative research methods; excellent strategic planning, project management, and financial oversight skills; highly skilled in building and maintaining partnerships; superior analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities; exceptional written and oral communication skills; proficiency in MS Office Suite, statistical and data analysis tools, and virtual collaboration platforms.
Closing date: 2026-08-15
HOW TO APPLY:
Apply online via the application form at the link provided. You may need to register first before submitting an application.
https://hris.searcaapps.org/v1/vacancy-management/133/application-form