The Africa Rice Center is seeking to recruit two consultants to advise on the optimal vehicles for the dissemination of improved rice technologies.

1. Agricultural Economist
2. Legal Practitioner with knowledge of the agricultural sector

Agricultural Economist
The consultant will be required to conduct market research study and to explore the viability of appropriate mechanisms for the dissemination of rice seeds in selected countries in Africa. In doing so the consultant will study the rice seed sector, estimate rice seed supply and demand in selected countries.

Requirements

We are seeking candidates with the following minimum skills/attributes:

• Economics degree and post-graduate qualification in a development related subject
• Good knowledge of the agricultural sector in sub-Saharan Africa and the risks and challenges confronting producers and suppliers of rice products
• Extensive experience in agricultural research and analysis
• At least 2 years of relevant professional experience
• Work experience in Africa, preferably within development or agriculture
• Business/Strategic planning experience desirable
• Excellent communication (written and oral) and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team in complex environments
• Quick, clear strategic/conceptual thinking skills, and an ability to translate this into practical, effective actions
• Proven ability to work independently and as a team member.
• Must work well under pressure and meet deadlines

The consultant will be required to present a detailed feasibility study/report at the end of the assignment.

Legal Practitioner
The consultant will be expected to liaise with the Agricultural Economist and provide advice on the options considered and the legal implications for their implementation in the selected countries.

Requirements

We are seeking candidates with the following minimum skills/attributes

• Law degree and post-graduate qualification in a development related subject
• Good knowledge of Commercial Law and procedure
• Extensive experience in legal research and analysis, and the provision of legal advisory services in Africa
• Expertise in compliance, drafting and reviewing legal documentation
• At least 2 years of relevant professional experience
• Work experience in Africa, preferably within development or agriculture
• Excellent communication (written and oral) and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team in complex environments
• Quick, clear strategic/conceptual thinking skills, and an ability to translate this into practical, effective actions
• The ability to think flexibly and provide solutions to legal problems.
• Proven ability to work independently and as a team member.
• Must work well under pressure and deadlines

The consultant will be required to present a detailed report, recommendations and cost implications at the end of the assignment.

Interested individuals are required to send profiles, immediately, to:

The Director General’s Office (KFN/SH-D)
Africa Rice Center (WARDA)
01 BP 2031, Cotonou
Republic of Benin
email: shotobah-during@cgiar.org

WARDA offers a multicultural research environment with competitive salary and excellent benefits.

WARDA is especially committed to attracting women professionals in the sciences and developing country nationals.