Bioversity International (“Bioversity” for short) is the world’s largest organization undertaking research on agricultural biodiversity, dedicated to addressing global issues related to food security, poverty, climate change and environmental degradation. We are a non profit organization, active in over 100 countries worldwide, with more than 350 staff working from some 16 country offices. We are one of 15 centres of the Consortium of International Agricultural Research Centres (CGIAR). This is an exciting time to join Bioversity International. We have recently developed new and ambitious goals, clear objectives and performance indicators for the next ten years. Two strategic priorities have been set - to improve the use of biodiversity by smallholder farmers and the conservation of plant diversity.

For further information on Bioversity International, consult the Web page at http://www.bioversityinternational.org

Purpose of Role

As a member of the Senior Management Team, reporting to the Director General, the Director of Finance and Corporate Services will provide managerial and strategic leadership to the Finance and Corporate Services Units (Administrative Services and Information Technology), in order to ensure the efficient and effective delivery of services that support the achievement of the core aims and objectives of Bioversity.  He or she will contribute to the overall management of the Organization.

Main responsibilities

Under the overall guidance of the Director General, the appointee will have the following responsibilities:

• Ensure that an effective financial framework is in place for informed decision making including the appropriate financial and risk management strategies, internal and external audits, compliance policies, corporate financial planning and reporting;
• Oversee the preparation and timely distribution of annual working budgets, long-term forecasts, regular financial and management reports in accordance with internal, external and statutory obligations;
• Monitor budget and expenditure trends, recommend and implement corrective actions  as required;
• Review financial policies, procedures, and practices and recommend improvements to financial processes and controls;
• Act as the Secretary of the Board of Trustees;
• Oversee, monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the general administrative support services including protocol, procurement and facilities management;
• Oversee to the effective delivery of Information Technology Services;
• Oversee and coordinate the effective implementation of projects related to Finance and Corporate Services;
• Work collaboratively with other Centres’ and Consortium Office Finance and Corporate Services Directors;
• Lead, motivate and manage the performance of the Finance and Corporate Services staff;
• Contribute to securing financial and other resources from a range of donor sources, including through the development of long-term partnerships that support Bioversity’s research for development agenda;
• Contribute to the overall management of the organization.

Qualifications and competencies

 Essential qualifications & competencies

• Advanced University degree in finance, accounting, business administration and/or a related field, or bachelor degree or equivalent combined with longer work experience;
• 10-15 years of progressively responsible international experience, including the public sector, at senior professional and management levels in formulating, planning, implementing, and assessment of finance, administration and information technology operations;
• Ability to think strategically and pragmatism to turn strategies into concrete actions;
• Demonstrated ability to lead, inspire and effectively manage people in a multicultural work environment;
• Demonstrated competency in communication and interpersonal skills, including ability to build and promote team work, build consensus and resolve conflict; 
  • Experience in implementation and maintenance of business, financial reporting tools and ERP systems;
  • Excellent English, both written and spoken

Desirable qualifications and competencies

• A professional designation in accounting is an advantage, e.g. CPA, ACA (or equivalent);
• Experience in a research or development, not-for-profit organization;
• Knowledge of other major international languages.

 The successful candidate will have a strong commitment to the mission of Bioversity international.

Terms and conditions: The Director of Finance and Corporate Services is an Internationally Recruited position. Bioversity International offers an attractive remuneration package including a competitive salary, non-contributory retirement fund, medical insurance, housing allowance and leave provisions. All benefits are denominated and paid in US Dollars. The initial contract will be for a period of three years subject to a probationary period of one year.

Applications: Please apply online through Bioversity Job Opportunities web page (http://www.bioversityinternational.org/about_us/job_opportunities.html) by clicking the “Apply” button, completing the online application and attaching the required information. The closing date for the vacancy is 7 December 2012, but we will continue accepting applications until the position is filled, which can be monitored in the “Job Opportunities” section of our web site. Please note that in the application you are required to provide the contact details (address, telephone number and e-mail address) of at least three referees, which Bioversity will contact for short listed applicants.

Bioversity is an equal opportunity employer and strives for staff diversity.

Women and candidates from developing countries are encouraged to apply.