Program Specialist, Open Innovation and Agri-Incubation

JOB SUMMARY

Coordinates and supports the design, implementation, and monitoring of SEARCA’s open innovation and business incubation programs. Provides value‑added services to startups, entrepreneurs, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs), facilitates linkages with donors, partners, and stakeholders, and supports commercialization pathways to strengthen entrepreneurship and innovation aligned with SEARCA’s strategic priorities for agricultural transformation.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & EXPECTED DELIVERABLES

A. Project Development 

• Identify, develop, and coordinate strategic innovation and entrepreneurship programs and proposals aligned with SEARCA’s goals
• Contribute to strategies for sourcing, screening, and onboarding startups and agri‑entrepreneurs
• Facilitate entrepreneurship and SME development initiatives and ensure effective communication of program services
• Support resource mobilization, identify funding opportunities, and build partnerships to sustain incubation programs

B.  Business Incubation Implementation and Management 

• Oversee implementation of incubation projects and activities in line with approved work plans and donor agreements
• Provide technical and business support to address challenges and improve enterprise performance
• Serve as focal person for incubation initiatives, coordinate planning, and monitor progress and finances
• Prepare inception, progress, and final reports, ensuring accuracy and compliance
• Identify new opportunities and expand the reach and impact of incubation services.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education

• Master’s Degree in Agriculture, Agribusiness, Agricultural Economics, Business Management, Economics, Entrepreneurship, or a related field

Work Experience

• Five (5) years of progressive experience in business incubation, innovation programs, project management, agricultural research, or agri‑enterprise development. 
• Experienced working with development or research institutions is preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in foresight and future-oriented thinking to anticipate trends, inform strategic direction, and support innovation and entrepreneurship initiatives.

Skills

• Strong background in project development, proposal writing, resource mobilization, and partnership management
• Knowledge of innovation ecosystems, incubation models, value chains, and agribusiness development
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and Filipino
• Proficiency in MS Office, project management, and digital collaboration tools

Core Competencies (Advanced Level)

1. Innovativeness - Reviews processes, gathers feedback, and proposes improvements to programs and services
2. Flexibility & Adaptability - Adapts to changing priorities; supports organizational changes and manages transitions effectively
3. Professionalism - Demonstrates high ethical standards, consistency, and trustworthiness in all dealings
4. Effective Communication - Prepares complex proposals and reports; communicates clearly with diverse audiences
5. Team Orientation - Builds collaborative relationships; coordinates across units to achieve shared goals
6. Service Orientation - Anticipates stakeholder needs; improves processes to deliver quality support and outcomes
7. Attention to Detail - Ensures accuracy and completeness of outputs; establishes review and monitoring procedures
8. Problem Solving & Decision-Making - Analyzes issues systematically; develops and tests practical solutions before acting

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