Job Description

Job Title: Country Representative - Ghana, and Regional Representative for West and Central Africa Location: Accra, Ghana Starting date: As soon as possible Contract Duration: 3 years (renewable) Open to individuals with relevant abilities from diverse locations around the world.

DRS is looking for a Country Representative based full-time in Accra on behalf of an organization to represent INGO in Ghana and West and Central Africa. We’re seeking a dynamic leader with exceptional management aptitude and a deep understanding of water, land, and agricultural development challenges and opportunities in West and Central Africa.

The Country Representative (CR) maintains strong links with the partner Country Coordinators for Ghana and other West and Central African countries, other units, and national and international partners. The primary responsibilities of the CR are:

• Manage all staff, interns, and consultants at INGO’s assigned offices.
• Coordinate business development in Ghana, West, and Central Africa to sustain and grow a viable funding pipeline.
• Represent INGO and water research in relevant national and regional forums and develop and strengthen relationships with government agencies, national research organizations, and implementing partners to expand and promote the uptake of research outputs.
• Country office management (people management; financial management; governance and risk management).
• Participate in research projects and programs aligned with personal expertise.

The Research Institution is a global partnership of research for development organizations dedicated to addressing complex challenges in food, land, and water systems in the context of a climate crisis. This partnership aims to strengthen the delivery of research and innovation through an integrated approach aligned with the Research Institution's Strategy and Results Framework. The Country Representative is expected to allocate at least 40% of their time to representing the INGO, overseeing people and operations while dedicating the remaining time to project-specific research activities.

Duties & Responsibilities

Lead Country Program Development and Implementation

• Develop the strategic direction of the country office in alignment with the INGO’s and the Research Institution’s Research and Innovation Strategy, as well as regional development priorities and research needs.
• Coordinate the development, funding, and management of the project portfolio by leading the design and development of programmatic and project proposals.
• Foster teamwork and collaboration among country office staff, Research Institution units, and external partners.
• Manage staff to ensure the delivery of high-quality, timely research outputs that meet partners’ and clients’ needs.
• Advise senior leadership on country-specific strategies related to water systems science and relevant programs.

Representation and Stakeholder Engagement

• Manage relationships with host-country governments in accordance with hosting agreements.
• Strengthen existing partnerships and develop new collaborations with national and regional authorities, development partners, and stakeholders to enhance the visibility of the INGO and the Research Institution.
• Contribute to fundraising efforts by identifying opportunities, networking with donors, preparing proposals, and providing intellectual input in coordination with the Business Development Unit.
• Promote the uptake of research outputs and lead country-level communication and outreach activities in collaboration with communications and resource mobilization teams.

Office Management and Administration

• Oversee the management of the country office, including budgeting, financial reporting, and risk management.
• Optimize resources to support research and operational needs, ensuring compliance with policies and regulations.
• Recruit, manage, and develop staff through coaching, performance reviews, and strategic development plans.
• Ensure a safe work environment by implementing safety and security protocols and promoting staff well-being.

Research Development and Implementation

• Lead and implement projects in the incumbent’s area of expertise.
• Align the research portfolio with national priorities and the Research Institution's strategic objectives, ensuring quality outputs and impactful development.
• Coordinate with staff and stakeholders to integrate research activities into country-level strategies effectively.

Educational Qualifications & Experience

• Master’s or PhD in water resources management, climate change adaptation/mitigation, international development, environmental science, geography, or a related field, with 10+ years of relevant experience. A PhD is preferred.
• Proven experience in promoting gender, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace and programs.
• Demonstrated expertise in research and engagement relevant to water systems management in developing countries.
• Experience in regional networking and building partnerships with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong track record of producing high-quality written proposals, reports, and academic papers.
• Desirable
• Experience engaging with senior decision-makers and donors.
• Familiarity with the operational structure of global research partnerships.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong understanding of water, land, and agricultural development challenges.
• Proven skills in program and personnel management, including interdisciplinary team leadership.
• Fluent in English; French proficiency is an advantage.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for diverse multicultural settings.

Travel Obligations Frequent regional and international travel required.

Required Competencies

• Strategic Leadership: Aligns personal and organizational goals with the vision and mission.
• Managing People: Builds diverse teams, provides feedback, and supports professional growth.
• Communication: Adapts messages for diverse audiences and fosters collaboration.
• Stakeholder Focus & Impact Orientation: Delivers high-quality results on time and within budget.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge sharing.
• Promoting Diversity & Inclusion: Creates an inclusive culture that values diversity.

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