 |
| Senior Vice President – Africa at Heifer International |
Location: Africa Region (Remote/Hybrid – Preferably
in Rwanda, Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, Uganda, Ethiopia, Malawi, or
Zambia)
Organization: Heifer
International
Job ID: 1579
Category:
Executive Management
Deadline:
November 14, 2025
Estimated Salary:
USD 120,000 – 160,000 annually (based on experience and location)
Type:
Full-Time | Global Nonprofit | Hybrid/Remote Options Available
Job description: Explore the exciting leadership opportunity as Senior Vice President – Africa with Heifer International. Lead regional transformation across Rwanda, Kenya, Nigeria, Tanzania, and more. Apply now for a global impact role.
About Heifer International
Heifer International is a globally recognized nonprofit organization dedicated to ending hunger and poverty by empowering smallholder farmers. Since 1944, Heifer has helped more than 52 million families achieve sustainable livelihoods and food security across 19 countries, including several in Africa, Asia, and the Americas.
In Africa, Heifer partners with farming communities to promote locally led agricultural transformation, enhance food systems resilience, and reduce poverty through innovation, market access, and inclusive leadership.
Heifer’s philosophy is grounded in its 12 Cornerstones for Just and Sustainable Development and six Cultural Guiding Principles, emphasizing dignity, fairness, inclusivity, and sustainability.
Position Overview
The Senior Vice President – Africa (SVP Africa) will provide strategic leadership, direction, and representation for Heifer’s operations across the African continent. Reporting directly to the CEO and President, the SVP Africa will champion locally led development, foster strong regional leadership, and drive alignment with Heifer’s global strategy.
This executive role involves leading country offices in Rwanda, Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Malawi, and Ethiopia — promoting innovation, collaboration, and measurable impact across the region.
Key Responsibilities
1. Strategic & Program Leadership
- Design and execute Heifer’s Africa regional strategy in line with global priorities.
- Strengthen program delivery and impact across multiple countries.
- Empower local offices with autonomy, capacity, and resources to thrive.
- Ensure compliance, budget management, and operational excellence.
- Track trends and emerging opportunities within Africa’s agricultural sector.
2. Partnership & External Relations
- Represent Heifer to governments, donors, and international partners.
- Cultivate partnerships with IFAD, FCDO, USAID, corporate donors, and foundations.
- Elevate Heifer’s profile as a thought leader in food systems and rural transformation.
- Build visibility through advocacy, collaboration, and global events.
3. Leadership & Culture Building
- Mentor regional and country directors to foster a high-performance, values-driven culture.
- Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in all leadership structures.
- Encourage innovation, learning, and team empowerment.
- Build trust and collaboration across regional nodes.
4. Operational Oversight & Risk Management
- Oversee regional finances, compliance, and risk management.
- Drive adaptive learning and resilience in country programs.
- Maintain accountability to donors and beneficiaries.
- Champion transparency, ethics, and efficient resource utilization.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree in International Development, Agriculture, Business, Economics, or related field.
- 15+ years of leadership experience in international development, preferably in Africa.
- Proven success in strategic management and donor engagement (IFAD, UN, FCDO, Foundations).
- Deep understanding of agriculture, food systems, and smallholder livelihoods.
- Strong financial management and people leadership skills.
- Fluent in English; French or another African language is an advantage.
- Willingness to travel regionally and internationally (up to 50%).
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s Degree in a relevant field.
- Experience in executive leadership within INGOs.
- Proficiency in multicultural communication and adaptive leadership.
Why Join Heifer International?
At Heifer, you’ll join a global movement to reshape food systems and empower communities. You will:
- Work in a purpose-driven environment focused on tangible impact.
- Collaborate with world-class professionals leading transformation across Africa.
- Access competitive compensation and benefits, tailored to local standards.
- Enjoy flexible working arrangements (hybrid/remote options).
- Be part of a values-based culture that celebrates learning, belonging, and shared success.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive, region-adjusted salary package (approx. USD 120,000–160,000/year).
- Health, life, and retirement benefits aligned with country context.
- Generous annual leave and professional development opportunities.
- Supportive, inclusive, and equitable workplace policies.
Application Process
To Apply:
Interested candidates should submit:
- A Cover Letter (max 2 pages) addressing:
- A leadership experience managing multi-country initiatives.
- A demonstration of commitment to Locally Led Development.
- A Current Resume outlining relevant qualifications and experience.
Application Deadline: End of Business – November 14, 2025
Apply Now via: Heifer International Official Portal
Helpful Tips for Applicants
- Customize your cover letter: Emphasize African leadership and locally led transformation.
- Highlight measurable impact: Include data or outcomes from previous roles.
- Be authentic: Heifer values empathy, innovation, and humility.
- Check your references: Ensure professional contacts are up-to-date.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can non-African nationals apply?
Yes, but priority will be given to candidates with extensive African regional
experience.
Q2: Is the position fully remote?
It offers hybrid flexibility, but occasional travel across African country
offices is required.
Q3: What is the recruitment timeline?
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted after the closing date for interviews.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Heifer International is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination based on race, color, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, or disability.
Related Opportunities
Africa
Ready to lead Africa’s
transformation in sustainable agriculture?
Apply now and make an impact with Heifer International.