Management Specialist (ATA)

Duration of Initial Contract :

The Ethiopian Agricultural Transformation Agency (the Agency or ATA) is an initiative of the Government of Ethiopia (GOE) established by federal regulation. The primary aim of the Agency will be to promote agricultural sector transformation by supporting existing structures of government, private-sector and other non-governmental partners to address systemic bottlenecks and deliver on a priority national agenda to achieve growth and food security.

The formation of the ATA is a result of two years of extensive diagnostic study across eight sub-sectors of Ethiopia?s agricultural system in a highly-consultative, multi-stakeholder process led by the Ministry of Agriculture with the support of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Modeled after similar public-sector bodies in Asia (i.e. Taiwan, Korea, Malaysia, etc.) that played important roles in the growth of those national economies, the Agency?s structure and function is focused on nimble, innovative and results-oriented support to a range of partners in the agricultural sector.

The ATA will be led by a Chief Technical Adviser and a high-caliber staff of senior leadership. Governance will be provided by an inter-ministerial council, chaired by the Prime Minister. The Minister of Agriculture will serve as the Deputy Chair with additional representation from other relevant federal ministries and regional governments. The ATA will be headquartered in Addis Ababa with a foreseeable ad hoc and potential standing presence in the regions.

Programmatically, the ATA will focus on a set of high priority initiatives identified by the Council. There are expected to be approximately 5-6 initial areas of focus, including seeds, markets/cooperatives, technology access and adoption and extension and research. Across the thematic initiatives, the ATA engages public, private and non-governmental stakeholders to support strategic planning, manage and strengthen implementation capacity and test innovative models. The ATA will be financed by GOE and supported by a range of development partners.

The Management Specialist?will serve as an advisor to the Chief Technical Advisor and liaison to internal ATA management and external audiences.?? The Management Specialist will manage a portfolio of high priority special programmatic and operational initiatives, work closely with the Agency?s senior leadership team and engage frequently with a wide range of external stakeholders across sectors.?? The ideal candidate has a proven track record of leadership in international development and a demonstrated passion to improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers.?

This position will report to the Chief Technical Adviser and will be based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Major Responsibilities:

To serve as a primary point of contact for the Chief Technical Adviser and Technical Adviser (Agricultural Transformation Strategies) on their internal and external responsibilities.? To provide clear and effective leadership in engaging with Agency staff and representing the Agency to a range of external stakeholders. To advise and support the Chief Technical Adviser and Technical Adviser (Agricultural Transformation Strategies) in building the Agency as an effective means of driving change and improvement in the agricultural sector in Ethiopia. To drive a portfolio of high priority special programmatic and operational initiatives for the ATA.

Key Functions:

Serving as a member of the senior leadership team, responsible for the overall direction, values, culture and management of the agency. Collaborating with senior leadership and other ATA staff in organizing and aligning strategic priorities; communicating with Chief Technical Adviser and Technical Adviser (Agricultural Transformation Strategies) on key priorities, decisions and action items. Acting as liaison and representative of the Chief Technical Adviser and Technical Adviser (Agricultural Transformation Strategies) in interactions with other Agency staff and external stakeholders, including the Council, program partners, donors, etc. Managing office flow and communication so that the Chief Technical Adviser and Technical Adviser (Agricultural Transformation Strategies) are apprised of all relevant matters and timely and appropriate actions are taken. Overseeing correspondence, papers and other communications on behalf of the Chief Technical Adviser and Technical Adviser (Agricultural Transformation Strategies). Strategic oversight to the Chief Technical Adviser?s engagements with the Council and organizing Council meetings. Leading on a portfolio of high priority special programmatic and operational initiatives as may be required.
Ability to thrive in a fast-moving, start-up environment, with an emphasis on high-performance, teamwork, accountability and results. Highlight collaborative leadership style. Results orientation. Excellent adaptive problem-solver. Strong set of personal values including integrity, honesty, and desire to be of service.

Education:

Masters degree or higher in Business Administration, Economics, Agriculture or other relevant subject.  

Experience:

5 years experience in business, government or civic organization. Possesses strong project management and analytical abilities, particularly related to large, complex projects. Exceptional writing and communication skills, for a diverse range of audiences. Exercises sound judgment, discretion and confidentiality. Deep understanding of Ethiopian culture and ability to effectively engage stakeholders within the Ethiopian government, business, donor, NGO and agricultural sectors.

Language requirements:

Fluency in English is essential. Fluency in Amharic and other Ethiopian languages is desired. UNDP is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.

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