African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) Careers

• The Program Technology and Infrastructure Lead/ Manager will establish strategy and manage the organisation’s IT infrastructure, with a focus on system administration, maintenance, and networking.  Furthermore, the incumbent will manage databases and security, as well as develop software to support internal and external customers.  
• He or she will be responsible for installing, maintaining, and supporting the organisation’s computer systems, Software development initiatives, wide area networks (WANs), local area networks (LANs), intranets, individual computers, mobile devices, and other technology.  In terms of business analytics (BA) and business intelligence, s/he will transform data into insights that support the organisation’s strategic objectives.  The Program Technology and Infrastructure Lead/ Manager will be in charge of securing networks, computers, and mobile devices to protect the organisation’s data from internal and external threats.

This position reports to the Director, Corporate Services.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic leadership and work planning:

• Develop a coherent ICT strategy in close collaboration with external and internal stakeholders.
• Develop, manage, and maintain the IT service fabric or Enterprise architecture encompassing infrastructure, applications, communication, and mobility.
• Formulate and deploy long-term strategic plans for acquiring and enabling innovative, efficient, and cost-effective information processing and communication technologies.
• Maintain change and configuration policy to enhance controls and security.
• Develop and implement ICT policies and procedures, including those for architecture, security, disaster recovery, standards, purchasing, equipment replacement and service provision; and
• Lead the Organisation in its implementation and use of ICT, including testing, trailing, and implementing new technologies, applications, services and facilitating necessary training.
• Support Business process re-engineering to suit organisation goals and product development
• Develop and manage ERP resources optimising them and integrating for use
• Develop a data security policy as per Data Protection Act and other universal guidelines such as GDPR guidelines.

Management of the ICT Operations:

• Manage operational and strategic ICT planning, including business requirements, project planning and organising the allocation of resources.
• Review performance of ICT systems to determine operating costs, productivity levels and potential upgrade requirements.
• Provide infrastructure cost management plans with growth and estimates.
• Implement and maintain cyber security protocols safeguarding organisation assets, integrity and value.
• Benchmark, analyse, report on and make recommendations for the optimisation of the ICT infrastructure and systems.
• Lead and direct the deployment, monitoring, maintenance, development and support of all hardware and software based on business needs.
• Lead in the development of business case justifications and cost/benefit analyses for ICT initiatives.

Management of resources of the unit

• Develop, test, and manage the IT Business Continuity plan.
• Lead the Information Systems Unit in the most cost-efficient way, ensuring that ICT services meet the expectations and needs of internal and external stakeholders.
• Negotiate and manage vendors, outsourcers and consultant contracts, as well as service agreements; and;
• Manage procurement needs, related contracts, Internal/external suppliers, and contract continuity.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE.

• University degree in Electrical/Electronic /Software Engineering Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Mathematics, or related field.  Master’s degree in software engineering would be advantageous.
• Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) Certificate or Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) or Certified Network Security Certificate is required.
• Certification in Enterprise IT Architect or Business Processes Reengineering is required.
• Experience in ICT system integration and administration or design of ERPs is required for this role
• Proven working experience (over 7 years) in similar roles is required.
• At least 10 years of work experience in an ICT service environment
• 5 to 10 years of relevant management experience in a comparable organisation.
• Extensive experience working within a multicultural environment is desirable.
• Minimum 5 years’ knowledge and experience in ICT industry with Project/Product Management, Software development and process workflow mapping.
• Proven experience in developing policies at strategic corporate level.
• Extensive knowledge and experience in relevant regulatory frameworks and IT standards such as Data Protection.
• Experience in data engineering for analysis and forecasting is advantageous.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Ability to understand and use data to drive decision-making and strategy
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously amid ambiguity and without direction and to forge partnerships and drive for results
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with excellent fluency in English (spoken and written).
• An excellent strategic leader and team manager/supervisor. 
• A strong service orientation to colleagues.  S/he can work effectively and excel in a team setting.

• Reporting directly to the Director, Corporate Services, the Financial Controller, is a hands-on financial manager responsible for payroll, budget and planning, financial and management accounting, and reporting as well as tax matters. 
• The Financial Controller has a senior role within the foundation and is responsible for designing and implementing adequate internal controls and procedures to support effective program implementation and the conduct of efficient audits and reviews. He or She will provide the support and analysis required for both internal and external reporting.
• The Financial Controller will work closely with program and administration staff to explore how the finance function can more effectively support operations. He or She will also assist with the development and implementation of a strategic finance delivery service.

KEY FUNCTIONS

Treasury and Risk Management

• Engaging with the Internal Auditors and External Auditors and ensuring an effective follow through on audit and risk matters including the Risk Register
• Reviewing all draft audit reports and taking necessary action, following up on completion, issues raised and implementation of recommendations.
• Tracking currency risks and instituting an effective process for managing currency risks.  
• Leading key analysis and preparation of the Treasurer’s report and reports of the Foundation Risk Management Committee, taking minutes and follows up on matters arising.
• Approving transfer of funds, reimbursements, and related matters requiring authorization per the delegation of authority matrix.
• Overseeing the administration of the Foundation’s insurance policies and ensuring that there is in place an effective insurance program to provide adequate protection of the Foundation’s assets against insurable risks at a minimum practical cost.
• Provides expert perspectives and analysis for use by the Director, Corporate Services in assessing financial implications of risks, opportunities and decisions.
• Anticipating and identifying financial and administrative risks and takes appropriate action in terms of reviewing and/or developing new policies and procedures and recommending audits.

Financial Management

• Reviewing within delegated authority the book entries covering year-end adjustments for reserves, contingencies and other major or unusual items
• Reviewing the proposals to donors to ensure that financial matters are adequately addressed.
• Reviewing financial reports, expenditure, variances, and donor reports.
• Approval of procurement services, specific procurement contracts, payments, and adjustments journals within the delegation of authority matrix
• Accurate and timely financial processing and posting of transactions.
• Provide hands on direction and support to budget, grants, accounting, and payroll staff. 
• Directly supervise the budget and forecast development process.
• Responsible for the Cost Recovery across the programs within the foundation
• Monitors project and organization wide expenditure against budgets
• Ensure programs are spending down funds appropriately and in a timely manner to maintain projected income.

Reporting Internal Control Environment – Processes and Procedures

• Establish and implement rigorous internal control systems.
• Lead the Unit in the most cost-efficient way, ensuring that financial services meet the expectations and needs of internal and external stakeholders.
• Review and manage procurement needs, related contracts costs, Internal/external suppliers, to ensure optimal benefit to the foundation.
• Ensuring that the Foundation’s financial operations are conducted in accordance with Foundation policies and procedures and that both financial controls and value for money regimes are in place.
• Analysis and development of any new system needs for the foundation.
• Development and maintenance of the Delegation of Authority Matrix
• Ensures that financial records and reports are in compliance with all applicable accounting standards, donor requirements and other regulations.
• Coordinate and lead NICRA proposal development and submissions.
• Responsible for accurate cost allocation of expenditure.
• Continuously assess the design and implementation of financial policies, procedures, and systems in order to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the finance department.
• Work with the IT and other departments to identify new solutions to accounting and reporting challenges.
• Review and approval of payment and other processing documents to ensure adequacy and accuracy.
• Provide mentorship, training and support to staff as needed.

Reporting

• Design and maintenance of the Finance Reports DASHBOARD for the Foundation and social enterprises.
• Preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reporting for funding agencies, senior management, and Board of Trustees.
• Responsible for the analysis of all General Ledger accounts at the end of each month
• Preparation and maintenance the Foundation’s reporting calendar
• Any other tasks as directed by the supervisor.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE.

• Must be a seasoned professional with CPA or Chartered Accountancy certification with a Bachelor’s degree in any financial field.
• Demonstrated knowledge of non-profit accounting, business, and management principles.
• Minimum of 7 years’ experience in grants financial management in a non-profit setting is a must;
• Minimum of 10 years’ Experience in International Development is preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years’ management experience, coordination of people and resources.
• Excellent working knowledge of accounting in Microsoft office applications.
• Effective problem solving, critical thinking and systems evaluation skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communications skills (oral and written);
• A strong service orientation to colleagues.
• Ability to both delegate and take responsibility.
• Experience with filing Form 990, and CFR 200 regulations and UK SORP reporting will be advantageous.
• Demonstrated experience with Gates, USAID, DFID, CIDA and donor agencies and their grants management, report and audit requirements is a plus;
• Supervision experience.
• Fluency in English is required, Proficiency in French is a plus.
• Proven experience in developing policies at strategic corporate level.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Effective problem solving, critical thinking and systems evaluation skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communications skills (oral and written)
• A high level of self-discipline, capacity to multitask, and function well under pressure.
• A strong service orientation to colleagues.
• Ability to both delegate and take responsibility.
• Cross-cultural competency

Organisation Context

The African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) is an international not-for-profit organization designed to facilitate and promote public/private partnerships for the access, development and delivery of appropriate agricultural technologies that meet the needs of farmers in Africa. Through its catalytic and facilitative role, AATF acts as the neutral intermediary and responsible party between owners and holders of such technologies and those that need them to promote food security and enhance livelihoods for farmers in Africa. AATF was incorporated in the United Kingdom in January 2003, in Kenya on April 2003 (Headquarters) and in Nigeria in October 2009 (Regional Headquarters). It was also registered as a charity under the laws of England and Wales in January 2005.

Overall Purpose

Under the direct supervision of the Director Legal Affairs, the Legal Officer is responsible for providing legal support to the Foundation and its new start-up ventures.

The Legal Officer is expected to work in close collaboration with all AATF departments, partner organizations and relevant government entities to ensure that AATF is compliant with the laws of the countries we operate in.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Drafting, reviewing and negotiating contracts for AATF and its subsidiaries on the Contract Lifecycle Management System;
• Managing intellectual property matters on the Intellectual Property Management System;
• Providing training for all staff and partners on Intellectual Property Management & Project Compliance
• Preparing legal advisory opinions,
• Conducting Legal research and analysis; and
• Coordinating the Department’s Shared Legal Services.
• Providing legal and board secretarial services to the AATF’s start-up subsidiaries

Key Skills & Competencies

• Self-driven individual with a passion and flair for helping organizations succeed;
• Good writing and communication skills;
• Excellent IT skills particularly data management and processing packages;
• Ability to work in a professionally and culturally diverse setting;
• Ability and willingness to learn and quickly adapt;
• Team player with strong interpersonal and leadership skills; Strong analytical skills.
• Ability to produce consistently high-quality work in an intensely pressurized office environment.
• Ability to maintain high standards of integrity; establish straightforward, productive relationships, treating individuals with fairness and respect, demonstrating sensitivity for ethnic, cultural and gender differences.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of privileged information and to ensure absolute discretion and sensitivity to confidential matters.

Minimum Qualifications & Experience

• Masters of Law (LL.M) degree from a recognized university. A Masters degree or certification in Intellectual Property Law is an added advantage;
• Post-graduate Diploma in Legal Studies from the Kenya School of Law;
• Advocate of the High Court of Kenya;
• Be of good standing and possess the Law Society of Kenya Practicing Certificate;5 years’ experience in a busy legal set up; Fluency in written and spoken English. Knowledge of French is an added advantage.

How to apply

Submission of Applications

Qualified candidates are invited to send their applications on or before 28 April 2023 to

[email protected] and clearly indicate on the email subject Legal Officer. Candidates are encouraged to visit ou website https://www.aatf-africa.org/vacancy-announcement-legal-officer/ to obtain the full job profile. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

AATF is an equal opportunity employer; committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce and encourages qualified female and male candidates from all religious and ethnic backgrounds and any other diversity groups to apply and become a part of our organization.

Duties & responsibilities

• Provide oversight over AATF Kenya office administrative operations i.e., Office management, Inventory & Asset management, transport & travel, facilities, and utilities etc.
• Facilitate issuance and renewal of re-entry permits registration of motor vehicles for AATF and internationally recruited staff, acquisition, and renewal of their diplomatic identity cards
• Develop innovative and efficient ways of administrative operations with a focus on cost cutting
• Ensure efficient operation of fleet management system, maintenance of vehicles. Ensure safe custody of and transport related records and vehicle registration documentation
• Coordinate transport management by providing fuel and vehicle maintenance analysis and approval of the taxi invoices

Required Qualifications

• University degree in business related field or relevant business studies
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a similar capacity.

Key skills & competencies

• Experience working in a busy office especially with an international organization
• Proficiency in both written and spoken English and Kiswahili
• A broad variety of administrative and office management skills
• Trustworthy with a track record of impeccable integrity
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with pleasant and outgoing personality

Functions / Key Results Expected

• Develop and implement best agronomic practices for both early generation seed (EGS) and certified seed production that include improved tillage, rotation, irrigation, fertilization, control of weeds, pests, and diseases, harvesting, cleaning, conditioning, seed treatment, and storage.
• Coordinate and document periodic agronomic training activities for seed producers (breeder, foundation and certified) across project countries and ensure that seed growers are adequately trained on all agronomic requirements for the cultivation of AATF’s transgenic products. Share training logs with AATF Stewardship Manager quarterly.
• Track, verify, document, and report seed growers’ complaints on AATF products for remedial actions to be taken. Ensure that every recorded complaint is followed up. Make a quarterly summary of complaints and remedial actions.
• Track, verify, document, and report any incidence related to AATF transgenic products at seed production levels. Follow up on all incidents by documenting the incident containment actions, root cause analyses (when relevant), communications and corrective actions. Report each incident related to the technology performance to the AATF Stewardship Unit.
• Conduct field visits and audits with seed growers and compile relevant compliance reports. In liaison with the Stewardship Manager, set the annual number of visits and audits and ensure that a representative audit distribution is planned across the country. Generate the individual and annual summary audit reports.
• Ensure timely engagement, foster transparency, and best agronomic practices among all relevant stakeholders involved in AATF transgenic seed production.

Competencies

• A good understanding of agricultural biotechnology socio-political and regulatory environments in SSA.
• Ability to coordinate, manage and inspire a diverse group of skilled professionals to work as a team to deliver the project’s mandate efficiently and cost-effectively.
• Excellent high-level networking skills and ability to build and sustain relationships with key partners, especially high-level policymakers and economic elites with a vested interest in cowpea and maize value chains.
• Demonstrable high-level policy and grassroots advocacy and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to successfully establish and manage field agronomic activities.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to plan and prioritize work activities to meet the project’s goals and objectives.
• Excellent technical report writing and presentation skills.

 Recruitment Qualifications

Education:    At least a Master’s degree or equivalent in Agronomy or related discipline from a recognised University
Experience:    At least 5 years of relevant experience and sound knowledge in field agronomy and agricultural research and development with a reputed private or public sector entity, preferably in Africa.Sound knowledge and experience in irrigation agronomy for field crop production.Experience in seed production, seed processing and seed distribution. Quality Management Systems in seed production, knowledge of ISO is an added advantage.Good understanding of the SSA agricultural biotechnology socio-political and policy environments.
Language Requirements:    Fluency in written and spoken English. A working knowledge of a 2nd language – French would be an added advantage

Purpose of the Assignment

AATF is therefore seeking the services of a consultant to assist the Resource Mobilization Directorate to conduct a donor mapping to feed into the updating of the RM Strategy. The last donor mapping was done in 2018. In addition to the traditional donors in the sector specific attention should be looked into emerging opportunities in Europe, Asia, Middle East and Africa and case studies of successful sourcing of funds from financial institutions like International Finance Corporation, World Bank, Islamic Development Bank and the African Development Bank (AfDB) for example through African governments. Opportunities would also include potential funding opportunities for Agriculture Biotechnology projects as well as one-off grants to make targeted improvements to AATF’s operational capabilities

Most of the work will be done through desk research however interviews may also be conducted together with the Resource Mobilization Director. In addition, some sections of the RM Strategy may be drafted by the consultant.

Required Skills and Competencies:

• Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in for example Business Administration, Management, Agricultural field, political science, social science
• The prospective consultant should have a proven track record in fundraising/resource mobilisation for a Non-for Profit of at least 5 years
• Experience in accessing funds from African (including African governments), Asian and Middle Eastern sources will be an asset.
• Experience in conducting and facilitating similar assignments. Over 5 years
• Good knowledge of global agriculture sector trends especially in Africa in line with AATF’s area of work.
• Strong analytical and report writing skills.
• Excellent communication skills and fluency in English.
• Strong understanding of agricultural development issues and needs of farmers in Africa.