SRI Executive Search has been appointed by the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) to assist them in their search for the Managing Director position within the Qualibasic Seed Co.

The Managing Director will oversee and manage all business operations and ventures in the start-up foundation seed company, that will service seed companies in Sub Sahara Africa. The Managing Director will be responsible for the overall success of the business. He/she will ensure that this start-up is nurtured into a fully independent and financially viable company. The MD will report directly to the Company Board of Directors. The successful candidate will be responsible for the development and implementation of the company’s strategic plan, building and maintaining an effective management team, engagement with key stakeholders, and assume full accountability to the Board for all company operations.

Required Qualifications

Education

• A Masters degree in Business Management and a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Sciences or related discipline Relevant Experience
• Ten (10) years of progressive, senior level experience in business management/administration gained in a reputable national or international organization, with a strong understanding of corporate finance and performance measures
• Outstanding experience in developing and implementing strategic and operational plans to achieve revenue and volume targets in multiple countries.
• Demonstrated experience in providing strategic advice to the Board of Directors.
• In-depth knowledge of the seed industry in Sub-Saharan Africa.
• Strong private sector experience in P & L Management, aimed at delivering financial targets including net sales, gross profit, SG&A, EBIT and free cash-flow.
• Experience in measuring and leveraging on data-driven competitive and market information.
• Demonstrated experience in leading a multi-functional team in developing and executing appropriate go-to-market approaches, to achieve complementary commercial and social goals.
• Demonstrated ability to implement an effective credit management strategy
• Strong understanding of corporate finance and performance measures including experience in leading a business planning process, forecasting and budgeting process.
• Demonstrated experience in developing, leading and inspiring a team, to ensure consistent high performance, growth and retention of talent as well as succession planning for key leadership and high impact roles.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to build trust and partnerships with key institutions and seed companies in Sub-Saharan Africa and ensure collaboration and leveraging of the Foundation Seed Company’s mandate and capabilities.
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with external stakeholders including regulators, distribution partners, social partners and seed industry associations.
• Excellent organisational and leadership skills.
• Experience in establishing a start-up company, preferably in agribusiness

How to Apply

If you wish to be considered for this position, please forward a copy of your CV and a supporting letter in Microsoft Word format, along with any relevant documentation to Ms. Eva Toledo at EToledo@sri-executive.com on or before 10th of February 2017 at 5pm GMT.

All information will be in the strictest confidence, as we pride ourselves on our professional service. We will revert to you as soon as possible, when we have reviewed your application.