Deputy Program Director – Operations – Sahel Region

About the role

The Deputy Program Director – Operations supports the Program Director in delivering IFDC’s seed system strengthening agenda across the Sahel, ensuring alignment with mission, donor requirements and local regulations.

Key responsibilities

• Translate strategic goals into operational plans and oversee day‑to‑day program activities across multiple countries.
• Manage procurement, supply chains, logistics and office administration to ensure timely delivery of inputs and services.
• Monitor progress against targets such as seed availability, adoption rates and farmer income growth, and prepare donor reports.
• Supervise technical and field teams, coordinate field missions and ensure compliance with donor and IFDC policies.
• Represent the program in meetings, regional forums and donor coordination events, strengthening partnerships with donors, NGOs and government ministries.

Required profile

• Advanced degree (Master’s or higher) in Agriculture, Agribusiness, Development Studies, Economics or related field.
• Minimum 15 years of progressive experience in program operations, preferably in agriculture or rural development, with a proven track record managing large‑scale, multi‑country projects.
• Experience working with government institutions, NGOs and private‑sector partners in the Sahel.
• Fluent in French and English with strong written and verbal communication skills.

Required skills

• Seed system development and agricultural value‑chain knowledge.
• Procurement, logistics and supply‑chain management.
• Financial oversight, budgeting and donor compliance.
• Monitoring, evaluation and reporting.

What we offer

• Annual and sick leave, health and group life insurance, 13th‑month salary, social security and pension contributions in line with local laws.
• End‑of‑contract benefits.