Managing Director of Development Effectiveness and Corporate Strategy

About the role

The Managing Director leads IFAD’s Office of Development Effectiveness (ODE), ensuring that the Fund’s programmes are strategically coherent, operationally efficient and deliver measurable impact. Reporting to the Vice President, the role sits on the Senior Management Team and shapes corporate strategy based on evidence and performance data.

Key responsibilities

• Coordinate and oversee ODE’s three units (Quality Assurance, Results & Resources, Evidence for Development Impact).
• Integrate research findings, innovations and best practices into project design, implementation and evaluation.
• Ensure robust quality, safeguards and evaluation systems are applied across all IFAD investments.
• Drive corporate and operational effectiveness, supporting capacity development at country level.
• Provide strategic guidance to align IFAD’s programme of work with its long‑term development objectives.

Required profile

• Extensive senior‑level experience in international development, agricultural finance or related fields.
• Proven track record in leading large, multi‑disciplinary teams and managing complex programmes.
• Strong understanding of evidence‑based policy, monitoring and evaluation frameworks.
• Ability to work collaboratively with multiple UN agencies, donors and partner organisations.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to influence global agricultural development strategies.
• Leadership role within a United Nations specialized agency.
• Collaborative international work environment based in Rome.