THE ORGANISATION

The International Seed Federation (www.worldseed.org) is based in Nyon, Switzerland. As the voice of the global seed sector, its mission is to facilitate the international movement of seed and promote plant breeding innovation; to mobilise and represent the private seed sector at a global level; to inform its members of developments that may have an impact on the business and to promote the interests and the image of the seed sector. ISF engages with stakeholders and international organizations in pursuit of its vision of “a world where quality seed is accessible to all, supporting sustainable agriculture and food security”. 

VACANCY

ISF seeks a highly-motivated and qualified Technical Lead – Regulated Pest List Initiative (RPLI) whose task will be to drive the successful delivery of regulated pest lists for seed crops through collaboration with pathologists in the International Seed Health Initiative and companies, collection of evidence-based information from seed companies and scientific papers. The job calls for people-management skills in addition to the right educational background and job experience in the seed industry.

This is a varied role within a small team, full-time, home based and entails occasional international travel. You will report to ISF’s Seed Health Manager.

The position will be open until 11th September 2020. Send a resume and a cover letter to Michael Keller , Secretary General, International Seed Federation at careers@worldseed.org

Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis and the position shall remain open until a suitable candidate has been engaged. Target starting date: 1 st January 2021.

KEY TASKS

• to spearhead activities required for the development of new regulated pest lists for identified priority seed crops
• to coordinate the activities of the teams developing regulated pest lists for seed crops, participate in the critical review of scientific papers and prepare the information for publication in the ISF database
• to review and update regulated pest lists in the database at regular intervals
• to provide regular updates and analysis on the activities of the RPLI
• to respond to the changing needs of the International Seed Federation, performing other tasks as reasonably required
• to assist with planning and organizing activities, including conference calls, with relevant parties

KEY COMPETENCIES

• problem solving and a ‘can do' attitude
• manage competing priorities in the work plan
• maintain a strict sense of professional ethics and confidentiality
• actively embrace a culture of continuous improvement.

SKILLS / BACKGROUND / EDUCATION

• A post-graduate qualification (MSc or PhD or equivalent) in Plant Sciences that includes a study of plant pathology, and at least 2-3 years experience in the seed industry
• Communication skills, both written and verbal; fluency in written and spoken English
• Project management skills and computer literacy
• A proven ability to plan, set priorities, meet deadlines and deliver quality material
• The ability to function independently and as part of a team, as required.