Full Time
Nairobi, Kenya
Posted 3 weeks ago

CIFOR-ICRAF (Center for International Forestry Research and World Agroforestry)

Regional Business Services Manager – Africa at CIFOR-ICRAF (1 Position, Re-advertised) – Nairobi, Apply by 14 April 2025

ESSENTIAL JOB DETAILS

Employer: CIFOR-ICRAF (Center for International Forestry Research and World Agroforestry)
Job Title: Regional Business Services Manager – Africa (CIMMYT)
Number of Posts: 1
Job Type: Full-Time, Locally Recruited Staff (LRS)
Duty Station: Nairobi, Kenya
Contract Duration: Two years, renewable based on performance
Probationary Period: Six months
Application Deadline: 14 April 2025
Application Link: Apply Here
Important Note: This is a re-advertised position. Applicants who previously applied should not reapply.

INTRODUCTION

CIFOR-ICRAF is a global research institution with a vision of a more equitable, sustainable world. With a combined legacy of over 65 years in forestry and agroforestry innovation, CIFOR and ICRAF lead interdisciplinary research initiatives across the tropics and sub-Saharan Africa. The organization builds evidence-based strategies for climate resilience, biodiversity protection, and poverty alleviation, using science to inform policy and practice.

As part of its commitment to enhancing operational efficiency, good governance, and impactful program delivery, CIFOR-ICRAF seeks a highly qualified Regional Business Services Manager – Africa to oversee and support country office operations within the continent. The role is designed to reinforce strategic alignment, risk management, and compliance across the business services domains.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Strategic Support and Organizational Alignment

Conduct regular assessments to ensure country offices are strategically aligned with CIFOR-ICRAF’s mission and programmatic objectives.
Evaluate and support implementation of strategic frameworks that enhance operational cohesion and sustainability.
Provide tailored strategic advice and tools for continuous improvement and growth at the country level.

2. Governance, Compliance, and Oversight

Review operations against established Delegation of Authority (DOA) frameworks, ensuring consistency across country offices.
Conduct operational spot checks and audits to detect irregularities and ensure proactive compliance.
Liaise with finance, audit, and legal departments to uphold regulatory obligations and donor requirements.
Support the establishment of internal controls and systems to mitigate risks and uphold fiduciary standards.

3. Operational Performance and Process Optimization

Monitor and analyze key operational areas including procurement, asset management, travel, fleet services, logistics, and facilities use.
Identify bottlenecks and drive process reengineering to promote efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Recommend operational improvements aligned with donor expectations, budget constraints, and environmental standards.

4. Workforce and Talent Development Support

Assess leadership effectiveness across country offices and develop mentoring programs to enhance managerial capability.
Collaborate with HR to design and implement capacity development frameworks that foster high-performing, cohesive teams.
Advise on succession planning, recruitment strategy, and talent retention aligned with regional labor trends.

5. Risk Management in Procurement and Contracting

Oversee procurement practices to ensure transparency, competitiveness, and compliance with CIFOR-ICRAF and donor standards.
Assess supplier performance and maintain a vetted list of reputable vendors and service providers.
Flag and manage potential risks related to procurement and contractual agreements, ensuring value for money and ethical practices.
Facilitate training workshops on procurement policies, ethical sourcing, and fraud mitigation.

6. Stakeholder Engagement and Institutional Representation

Serve as the institutional liaison to country office staff, partners, and service providers, representing the Regional/HQ team.
Build trust and effective communication lines across internal and external stakeholders.
Participate in donor meetings, operational partnerships, and policy advocacy sessions to promote CIFOR-ICRAF’s interests.
Engage local stakeholders, including suppliers and government bodies, to support country-level program execution.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

Educational Requirements

Advanced degree (Master’s level or higher) in Business Administration, Public Administration, International Relations, or other relevant disciplines.

Professional Experience

Minimum 7 years of progressive experience in business services management, operations, governance, or risk advisory.
Demonstrated expertise working in regional, multi-country structures preferably within an international NGO, research institute, or UN system.
Practical knowledge of East, West, or Southern Africa operational contexts will be a strong asset.

Skills and Competencies

Strong knowledge of governance and compliance standards in the development and research sectors.
Exceptional ability to diagnose organizational needs and propose practical solutions.
Strong understanding of financial controls, donor reporting standards, and business process automation.
Effective interpersonal skills, including diplomacy, cultural sensitivity, and negotiation.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle), and procurement management tools.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Position Type: Locally Recruited Staff (LRS)
Contract Duration: Two (2) years with six-month probation
Duty Station: CIFOR-ICRAF Headquarters, Nairobi, Kenya
Compensation: Competitive remuneration in local currency commensurate with experience and skills
Additional Benefits: Health insurance, pension scheme, leave entitlements, professional development support

Note: Individuals who applied in the previous round should not apply again.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply for the Regional Business Services Manager – Africa position:

🔗 Submit Your Application Here

The application deadline is 14 April 2025.

All applications must include:

A current Curriculum Vitae (CV)
A motivation letter outlining suitability for the role
Names and contact information for three professional references

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

ABOUT CIFOR-ICRAF

CIFOR-ICRAF is a globally respected research-for-development institution focused on advancing solutions to the most critical sustainability challenges. Through a multidisciplinary approach grounded in science, the organization tackles climate change, food security, biodiversity, and rural livelihoods. It operates in over 30 countries and is headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya.

CIFOR-ICRAF is a member of CGIAR, the world’s largest agricultural research partnership, committed to transforming food, land, and water systems in a climate crisis.

ADDITIONAL ENGAGEMENT

Explore similar operations and management opportunities:

To apply for this job please visit www.cifor-icraf.org.

By The Kenyan Job Finder Team

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