Program Head, Research and Thought Leadership Department

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   SEARCA, UPLB Campus, College, Los Baños, 4031 Laguna, Philippines
Research and Thought Leadership Department
Regular
Application is open until 15 Sep. 2026

JOB SUMMARY

Provides strategic leadership to the Research and Thought Leadership Department by directing the design, resource mobilization, implementation, and dissemination of high-quality research and policy initiatives that advance agricultural transformation and rural development in alignment with SEARCA's Five-Year Plan and regional development priorities.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & EXPECTED DELIVERABLES

A. Program Development and Planning 

  • Identify and develop research‑for‑development projects and operational plans aligned with SEARCA’s Five‑Year Plan and the needs of SEAMEO member countries
  • Lead the preparation of high‑quality concept notes, project proposals, and funding requests
  • Conduct foresight and situational analysis to identify emerging regional trends and priority research gaps
  • Establish results-based frameworks and manage the department’s strategic project pipeline

B. Program Coordination, Management, and Implementation 

  • Oversee the full execution of research and policy programs to meet planned targets and outputs
  • Ensure technical quality, ethical standards, and timely delivery of all activities
  • Review and approve policy briefs, research reports, and publications; facilitate multi‑stakeholder dialogues and policy engagements

C. Networking and Linkages 

  • Build and maintain strategic partnerships with donors, research institutions, government agencies, and regional bodies
  • Represent SEARCA in regional and international fora, conferences, and policy meetings
  • Manage high‑level donor relations to secure funding and expand collaborative opportunities

D. Marketing and Communication 

  • Develop and execute a thought‑leadership strategy to position SEARCA as a leading knowledge hub
  • Ensure visibility and wide uptake of research outputs through appropriate communication and dissemination channels

E. Administrative and People Management 

  • Prepare the department’s annual operational plan and budget; oversee day‑to‑day operations and compliance with policies
  • Lead, mentor, and evaluate the performance of department staff; foster a culture of innovation, inclusivity, and continuous improvement
  • Ensure risk management, quality control, and efficient use of resources

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education

  • Doctorate Degree in Agriculture, Agricultural Economics, Natural Resources Management, Economics, Environmental Science, or a related field

Work Experience

  • Ten (10) years of progressive experience in research, policy analysis, or development program management

  • At least three (3) years in a senior leadership or management role

  • Proven track record in proposal writing, resource mobilization, and successful implementation of regional programs

Skills

  • Strong knowledge of regional agricultural and rural development issues; experience in policy engagement and knowledge translation
  • Proficiency in both quantitative and qualitative research methods
  • Excellent strategic planning, project management, and financial oversight skills
  • Highly skilled in building and maintaining partnerships with local and international institutions
  • Superior analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making abilities
  • Exceptional written and oral communication skills; ability to present complex ideas clearly to diverse audiences
  • Proficiency in MS Office Suite, statistical and data analysis tools, and virtual collaboration platforms

Applications will be received not later than 20 August 2026 or until a suitable candidate is accepted/hired.

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