Senior Technical Expert II- Focal Person Full Time NEW

ETHIOPIAN AGRICULTURAL TRANSFORMATION INSTITUTE (ATI)

Position: Senior Technical Expert II- Focal Person

Term of Employment: One year with possibility of extension

Duty Station: Addis Abeba, Secondment to EAA

Required Number: One

Application Deadline: February 14, 2026

Background

The Ethiopian Agricultural Transformation Institute (ATI), formerly known as the Agricultural Transformation Agency (ATA), is a strategy and delivery-oriented government institute created to help accelerate the growth and transformation of Ethiopia’s agriculture sector, which is a key contributor to the country’s GDP, exports, and workforce. The ATI’s work is centred on improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers (SHFs) across the country for improved income, inclusiveness, resilience, and sustainability.

The ATI works to transform the agriculture sector in Ethiopia by conducting policy and analytical studies, providing technical implementation support and capacity building, coordinating platforms to better integrate partners and projects, and designing and directly leading several innovative/pilot interventions.

The Institute joins forces with various stakeholders, including policymakers, researchers, farmers, and development partners, to support the implementation of agricultural development programs and initiatives. In addition, the ATI collaborates with national and international partners to facilitate knowledge exchange and learning opportunities. The Institute plays a crucial role in generating and disseminating information to support evidence-based decision-making in Ethiopia’s agricultural sector.

Our Culture

We have an exceptional team of highly competent employees with a proven track record of success in managing complex activities and achieving transformational results. Our culture is one where talented, dedicated and adaptable individuals are committed to doing their best and exhibit great teamwork to achieve excellent results.

At ATI, we provide an exceptional platform for people who want to achieve their highest potential and make a meaningful contribution in changing the country’s agricultural sector. We offer rewarding work in a young, fast-paced growing organization with passionate, committed, motivated colleagues and excellent career development and training. We recognize our most valuable assets are our staff and are committed to providing our employees with the tools, training, and mentorships necessary to achieve their career goals.

Position Summary

The Ethiopian Agricultural Transformation Institute (ATI) is collaborating with the Ethiopian Agricultural Authority (EAA) as one of an implementing partner of ISSSE project to enhance seed quality assurance, national seed policy, regulations, and legal frameworks. The focal person will be seconded to the EAA to oversee and facilitate various project activities aimed at improving the capacity of Ethiopian Agricultural Authority in implementing ISSSE project activities.

The primary objective of the focal person is to ensure effective implementation and monitoring of ISSSE project activities related to seed quality assurances, seed policy development and implementation, technical and physical capacity building of EAA.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Oversee and support the establishment of DUS and NPT testing stations across representative agro-ecological zones.
• Follow up and enforce drafting and endorsement of seed proclamations, regulations, and directives for ratification and implementation.
• Facilitate and monitor the process for International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) accredited Lab. at EAA.
• Facilitate and monitor the launching and operationalization of long- and short-term training programs on variety release, seed certification, and seed quality control.
• Facilitate and monitor strengthening and standardize regional seed laboratories to meet ISTA standards.
• Prepare and report on the status of the ISSSE project support activities at the EAA, ensuring transparency and accountability in project implementation.
• Participate in and provide updates on ISSSE project activities donor and project implementing partners monthly touchpoint meetings.

  Reporting Structure: The focal person will report directly to EAA Director General/Deputy Director General, but matrix report to ISSSE project manager while maintaining close communication and collaboration with the ISSSE project team.

   

Required Qualification, Competencies and Experience:

• MSc degree in Agriculture (plant science), agronomy, and Agri business or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years proven relevant experience in agricultural project management, seed quality assurance, seed policy development and implementation.
• Proven experience of project management as well as liaising with senior decision-makers.
• Strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills.
• Familiarity with the Ethiopian agricultural sector and seed policies is essential.
• Strong capabilities in problem solving, project and stakeholder management with extensive experience with government institutions, development partners, private sector, and actors.
• Strong set of personal values including integrity, honesty, and desire to serve.
• Computer analytical and presentation skills.
• Proficiency in English and Amharic, and knowledge of the regional language is an advantage