Hosted (RFP500551) Project Leader, ECPGR Secretary (Rome, Italy)
Share
Job Location:
Monthly Salary:
Posted on:
5 hours ago
Vacancies:
1 Vacancy
Job Summary
The Organization
Acting as the Host Institution for the European Cooperative Programme for Plant Genetic Resources (ECPGR) the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT is now seeking a qualified candidate to serve as ECPGR Secretary.
The European Cooperative Programme for Plant Genetic Resources (ECPGR) is a collaborative Programme among most European countries operating since 1980. It aims at ensuring long-term conservation and facilitating the increased utilization of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture (PGRFA) in Europe. For further information on ECPGR consult the website:
Following three decades in office the current Secretary will step down due to retirement. Therefore the ECPGR seeks a successor as from 1 December 2026.
About the position
Based in Rome Italy and hosted by the Alliance of Bioversity International & CIAT the ECPGR Secretary will head the ECPGR Secretariat and operate under the direct supervision of the Chair of the ECPGR Executive Committee. The Secretarys main task is to ensure the implementation of the Steering Committees decisions. Key responsibilities include managing the budget and Secretariat staff coordinating Working Groups and supervising pillar activities such as AEGIS EURISCO the EVA Network and the Genetic Resources Journal.
Responsibilities
- Lead and implement the ECPGR Programme as the major strategic project while proactively developing and managing a portfolio of aligned activities.
- Execute authoritatively the decisions of the Steering Committee provides critical analysis and foresight to support the ECPGR programmes strategic design and ensures operational plans capacity and outcomes are fully aligned.
- Secures and lead ECPGRs engagement as a partner in complementary projects (e.g. Horizon Europe) to amplify the Programmes impact and resources.
- Oversee and monitor all the tasks of the Secretariat as defined in the ECPGR Rules of Procedures and Terms of Reference of Phase XI .
- Lead and direct the Secretariats staffing strategy to ensure optimal resourcing and performance.
- Participate in meetings of the Steering Committee the Executive Committee (ExCo) and the EURISCO Advisory Committee supporting the meetings organization and drafting the respective meeting reports.
- Provide feedback on the annual reports and work plans drafted by the EURISCO Coordinator.
- Advise teams and external stakeholders on management and research project progress and any emerging issues that may impact project delivery.
- Build and strengthen internal networks and relationships with external donors and institutions to ensure successful delivery of the ECPGR programme.
- Design organize and execute the ECPGR programme relevant management and research projects ensuring the content meets established timelines and standards.
- Lead the development and implementation of successful proposals including the continuation of the ECPGR programme of a combined value of ca. 700000 per annum.
Requirements
- Masters degree (preferably PhD) in Plant Genetics Plant Breeding Agronomy or Horticulture with emphasis in Plant Science Biology or equivalent qualifications.
- Preferably a minimum of five years of professional experience within the field.
- Ability to deliver with efficiency quality products and services on time under tight deadlines.
- Professional working proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Specialized experience in substantive work and project portfolio or program management in their area of expertise. Substantial people management and team building experience.
- Strong teamwork interpersonal and communications skills; courtesy tact and the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with people of different national and cultural backgrounds.
- Experience in working in an international and inter-disciplinary working environment.
- Willingness to travel to project countries.
- Scientific recognition nationally and internationally in a relevant area of expertise.
- Good understanding of general principles of plant genetic resources conservation and use.
- Documented proficiencies in project management and on-time deliveries.
- Working knowledge of other European languages desirable.
Benefits
Terms of employment
This will be either an internationally recruited or nationally recruited position based in Rome Italy. The salary is level 10 on a scale of 14 levels with level 14 being the highest. The salary range will be established in accordance with the Alliance standards. The employment conditions and contract type should be reviewed when the nationality of the selected candidate is identified. The remuneration package includes a competitive salary leave provisions medical and life insurance and non-contributory retirement plan. The contract will be for a period of 2 years subject to a probationary period of 6 months and is renewable subject to performance project needs and availability of funds.
Applications
Please apply online through the website ( no later than 16 March 2026 attaching a curriculum vitae (CV) a motivation letter both in English and contact information (e.g. names email address) of at least three references (knowledgeable about your professional qualifications and work experience). The cover letter should include the reference number of the position RFP500551.
Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Closing date for applications: 16 March 2026
We invite you to learn more about us at:
Please visit our careers page at:
Company Industry
IT Services and IT Consulting
Key Skills
- IT Experience
- Robot Programming
- PMBOK
- HVAC
- Project Leadership
- Conflict Management
- Meeting Facilitation
- Schedule Management
- Project Management
- Project Management Software
- Microsoft Project
- Leadership Experience
