Head of Agrifood Systems

About the role

The Foundation is seeking a senior leader to head its Agrifood Systems portfolio across Pan‑African programmes. Reporting to the Director of Agrifood Systems, the role will shape and execute a transformative strategy that creates sustainable, dignified work for young people in agriculture and related sectors.

Key responsibilities

• Interpret and cascade the Foundation’s agrifood systems roadmap to drive the Young Africa Works agenda.
• Develop and manage new regional and Pan‑African partnerships with donors, private sector, and governments.
• Support country programme teams with technical expertise, ensuring alignment with climate‑smart agriculture and agribusiness goals.
• Lead the creation of collaboration platforms and networks to scale impact.
• Collect, synthesize, and disseminate learn‑outs from country and regional programmes.
• Co‑lead the agrifood systems and climate community of practice.
• Represent the Foundation as a senior spokesperson at conferences, workshops and media events.
• Provide functional leadership to the thematic team, setting objectives and assessing performance.

Required profile

• 12‑15 years of experience in agricultural sciences, agribusiness, agrifood systems, nutrition, rural development or climate‑smart agriculture.
• At least 7 years in a senior leadership or management role overseeing multi‑country programmes.
• Proven track record of building strategic partnerships and influencing policy at regional or continental level.
• Strong understanding of the African agrifood ecosystem and youth employment challenges.

Required skills