Overview
POSITION: CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
The Smallholder Farmers Fertilizer Revolving Fund of Malawi (SFFRFM) is inviting applications from suitably qualified candidates of Malawi origin to fill the position of Chief Executive Officer tenable at its Head Office, at ULIMI House in Blantyre.
The Chief Executive Officer shall be responsible to the Board of Trustees for the efficient and effective management of the operations of the SFFRFM by ensuring that performance targets agreed with the Board of Trustees are achieved through specific performance contracts.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE POSITION
The Chief Executive Officer shall be responsible, but not limited, for the following:
Advising the Board of Trustees and liaise with the relevant stakeholders on the development and marketing of fertilizer and other farm inputs;
Providing sound leadership in formulation and development of policies, plans, targets, strategies and budgets of the SFFRFM for approval by the Board of Trustees
Providing strategic direction and leadership for development of improved supply chain through sound business model for fertilizer and other agricultural inputs to the farming community in line with the Government policies, SFFRFM’s visjon and mission as stipulated in its Trust Deed;
Establishing and formulating business policies, strategies and plans that translate to profitability, business growth and turnaround of the SFFRFM;
Providing general oversight of all SFFRFM activities to ensure that it functions smoothly and efficiently in accordancewith Government of Malawi policies and that the operational infrastructure is expanded:
Managing the SFFRFM’s investment portfolio and assets.
SPECIFIC DUTIES
The Chief Executive Officer will among other things be responsible for but not limited, to:
Undertaking day-to-day management of the organisation through planning, organising, supervising, coordinating and directing the activities of all departments of the SFFRFM through their respective Heads and proper management of all its resources, human and material; exercising authority, leadership and ensuring they are motivated to achieve results;
Ensuring that effective management systems, procedures and financial controls are in place to make the most effective, economical and efficient use of the SFFRFM’s resources in line with the Public Finance Management Act and Public Audit Act;
Ensuring that the SFFRFM provides the best possible terms and conditions of service as well as a safe and healthy environment for its employees within the framework of economic constraints and Government policies;
Developing, nurturing and managing a cadre of staff that is well trained and developed to plan, implement, operate, maintain and independently manage the development, marketing and delivery of fertilizer and farm inputs to farmers
Initiating and/or participating in the formulation of appropriate organizational and management structures for assurance of optimal efficiency in serving the SFFRFM’s customers and other stakeholders;
Utilizing up-to-date management information system and technology to prepare physical, financial, institutional performance reports, programmes and plans of the SFFRFM;
Representing the SFFREM at all relevant fora for the advancement of its activities, and
Serving as Secretary to the Board of Trustees of the SFFRFM.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
The ideal candidate should have a minimum qualification of a Bachelor’s Degree in either Agriculture, Agricultural Economics, Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Economics and Finance from a reputable University and
A Masters’ Degree in Agriculture, Business Administration, Operations Management, Strategic Management, Supply Chain Management, Economics and Finance from a reputable institution, is a MUST
The successful applicant must have at least ten (10) years post qualification working experience, 7 of which at a senior management level. Those with working experience in the fertilizer and/or agricultural farm inputs business industry will have an added advantage.
SKILLS AND PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES
The ideal candidate for the position must:
Have extensive management experience at a senior level and capable of leading and managing a team of technical and professional staff
Have good knowledge of Malawi Government agricultural marketing policies and strategies especially as they relate to the smallholder agriculture sub sector.
Be knowledgeable in agricultural marketing. logistics and warehousing.
Have extensive experience in corporate governance and general management.
Have a clear understanding of the business and legal environment of the industry.
Be of high integrity, honest and excellent negotiation skills
Have a good grasp of complex negotiations in international trade deals and contracts
Understanding of the Public Finance Management Act, Public Audit Act and Public Procurement and Disposal of Assets Act.
Have general experience in Human Resource Management, Administration, ICT, Planning and Evaluation
Have excellent oral and written communication skilIs
Be a self-starter, effective team player and demonstrate verifiable result-oriented track record
Have strong analytical interpersonal and organisational skills, Versatility, ability to mufti-task and meet deadlines.
Be able to work as a team member with leadership skills for coaching and developing employees.
SUBMISSION AND APPLICATION
Qualified and interested individuals should submit applications and detailed Curriculum Vitae with copies of certificates indicating their current postal and email addresses, telephone numbers and names of three (3) traceable referees in sealed envelopes clearly marked” Vacancy: SFFRFM Chief Executive Officer” not later than 16:00 hours on Monday 7th November, 2021 to:
The Comptroller of Statutory Corporations
Department of Statutory Corporations
PO Box 30061
CAPITAL CITY
LILONGWE 3.
Only shortlisted applicants will be acknowledged and invited for interviews.