Senior Technical Expert II – Focal Person
About the Organization
The Ethiopian Agricultural Transformation Institute (ATI), formerly the Agricultural Transformation Agency (ATA), is a government institute dedicated to accelerating the growth and transformation of Ethiopia’s agriculture sector. Agriculture plays a critical role in Ethiopia’s economy, contributing substantially to GDP, employment, and exports.
ATI focuses on improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers through inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agricultural practices. The Institute implements transformative programs by combining policy analysis, technical support, capacity building, and multi-stakeholder coordination.
ATI collaborates with policymakers, researchers, farmers, development partners, and international organizations to foster knowledge sharing and evidence-based decision-making. Working at ATI provides professionals with a platform to make a meaningful impact on national agricultural development while growing their careers in a dynamic environment.
The Institute values innovation, adaptability, and collaboration. Staff are supported through mentoring, training, and career development opportunities, making ATI a place where committed individuals can maximize their potential.
Job Description
The Senior Technical Expert II – Focal Person will be seconded to the Ethiopian Agricultural Authority (EAA) as part of the ISSSE project, which focuses on enhancing seed quality assurance, national seed policy, regulations, and legal frameworks.
This role ensures effective implementation and monitoring of ISSSE project activities. The expert will provide leadership in seed quality assurance, capacity building, and policy development to strengthen the institutional and technical capabilities of the EAA.
The focal person will act as the primary link between the ISSSE project team and EAA, coordinating technical activities, monitoring progress, and ensuring compliance with national and international seed quality standards.
Key Responsibilities
1. Seed Quality Assurance and Technical Support:
- Oversee the establishment and operation of DUS (Distinctness, Uniformity, Stability) and NPT (National Performance Trials) testing stations across representative agro-ecological zones.
- Facilitate ISTA-accredited laboratory setup and operationalization at EAA.
- Monitor and guide regional seed laboratories to ensure they meet ISTA standards.
- Ensure rigorous quality control in seed testing, certification, and standardization processes.
2. Policy and Regulatory Development:
- Support drafting, ratification, and implementation of seed proclamations, regulations, and directives.
- Ensure alignment of policies with national strategies and international best practices.
- Provide technical advice to EAA leadership on legislative and regulatory frameworks related to seed quality.
3. Capacity Building and Knowledge Transfer:
- Facilitate and monitor the launch of short- and long-term training programs on variety release, seed certification, and quality control.
- Provide technical guidance to EAA staff and partners to enhance institutional capacity.
- Conduct mentoring and training sessions to promote best practices in seed quality assurance and policy implementation.
4. Project Monitoring and Reporting:
- Track and report on ISSSE project implementation, ensuring transparency and accountability.
- Prepare regular updates for project stakeholders, including donor and partner meetings.
- Ensure high-quality documentation of project outcomes and lessons learned.
5. Stakeholder Engagement and Coordination:
- Serve as a focal point between EAA, ISSSE project teams, government institutions, and development partners.
- Liaise with senior decision-makers to facilitate project approvals, resource allocation, and strategic guidance.
- Promote effective collaboration and knowledge sharing among stakeholders.
Educational Qualification
- MSc degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Plant Science, Agribusiness, or a related field.
Work Experience
- Minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in agricultural project management.
- Proven experience in seed quality assurance, seed policy development, and implementation.
- Demonstrated ability to manage projects and liaise with senior decision-makers.
- Experience working with government institutions, development partners, and private sector stakeholders is essential.
Required Skills and Competencies
- Strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills.
- Expertise in project and stakeholder management, with problem-solving capabilities.
- Familiarity with Ethiopian agricultural sector and seed policy frameworks.
- Strong personal values, including integrity, honesty, and a desire to serve.
- Proficiency in computer applications, data analysis, and reporting.
- Fluency in English and Amharic; knowledge of regional languages is advantageous.
Job Location
Addis Ababa, secondment to Ethiopian Agricultural Authority (EAA)
Employment Type and Salary
- Full-time, one-year contract with possibility of extension.
- Competitive salary and benefits aligned with ATI standards.
Professional Growth and Career Development
- Lead technical and policy initiatives at a national level.
- Develop expertise in seed systems, quality assurance, and agricultural policy implementation.
- Gain exposure to cross-sectoral project management, stakeholder engagement, and institutional capacity building.
- Opportunity to enhance leadership and strategic planning skills within a high-impact, national-level project.
Impact of the Role
- Strengthens Ethiopia’s seed quality assurance systems.
- Contributes to improved agricultural productivity and smallholder farmer livelihoods.
- Supports the development and implementation of national seed policies and regulations.
- Facilitates knowledge transfer and institutional capacity building at the Ethiopian Agricultural Authority.
Diversity and Inclusion
Women and candidates from underrepresented groups are highly encouraged to apply. ATI is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace that supports equity and opportunity.
How to Apply
- Submit a cover letter and CV (maximum 5 pages) via https://apply.ati.gov.et.
- Clearly mention the position title in the subject line of the application.
- Do not submit scanned certificates or attachments.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.