TechnoServe, a globally recognized nonprofit organization, has been at the forefront of market-led development for more than five decades. With its strong commitment to empowering individuals in developing countries, the organization continues to lead transformative projects that equip smallholder farmers and entrepreneurs with the tools to build better lives.
Currently, TechnoServe is seeking a highly qualified, experienced, and visionary professional to serve as Chief of Party for an upcoming USDA Food for Progress (FFPr) agricultural development initiative. This anticipated program will span three to five years and may be implemented in any of the following countries: Kenya, Colombia, Ghana, Ethiopia, or Vietnam.
This is a full-time, on-site role based in Nairobi, Kenya, with possibilities for travel and coordination with other program locations. The position requires a strong background in international development and a proven track record in leading complex donor-funded programs.
About TechnoServe
At TechnoServe, the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to build a better future underpins every project and partnership. Over the years, the organization has successfully collaborated with a range of donors, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), to foster inclusive and sustainable economic growth across Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
Notably, TechnoServe has already implemented 11 USDA Food for Progress agreements, touching the lives of over one million beneficiaries globally. These programs aim to improve agricultural productivity and enhance access to markets, particularly in underserved communities.
The organization’s strength lies in its unique combination of local expertise—95% of its staff are native to the countries where they operate—entrepreneurial spirit, business acumen, and commitment to impact. This role is an opportunity to become part of a team that prioritizes transparency, integrity, and innovation while delivering measurable results.
Position Overview: Chief of Party – USDA Food for Progress Program
Job Category: Programs
Requisition Number: CHIEF004913
Type: Full-Time
Location: Nairobi, Kenya (with potential involvement in Ghana, Ethiopia, Colombia, or Vietnam)
TechnoServe is seeking an exceptional Chief of Party (CoP) to provide high-level oversight and direction for a forthcoming USDA Food for Progress initiative. The successful candidate will lead the project from inception through close-out, driving performance, maintaining stakeholder relationships, and ensuring alignment with USDA’s goals and compliance requirements.
This position is contingent on the award of the project and approval by the USDA. The CoP will serve as the primary contact point for the donor and will play a central role in representing the program’s vision, progress, and impact both regionally and globally.
Key Responsibilities
- Program Leadership and Strategic Direction
- Provide overall strategic guidance and leadership throughout the program lifecycle.
- Translate USDA Food for Progress goals into actionable strategies and ensure these are consistently reflected in program implementation.
- Drive operational excellence and innovation across all facets of the project.
- Ensure the program delivers sustainable outcomes for target beneficiaries and communities.
- Program Implementation and Oversight
- Oversee all technical and administrative aspects of the project, ensuring effective planning, coordination, and execution of activities.
- Monitor program activities and ensure achievement of established targets, deliverables, and milestones within budget and timelines.
- Maintain strict compliance with USDA regulations, policies, and reporting requirements.
- Staffing and Team Management
- Recruit, manage, and provide leadership to a multi-disciplinary team of long- and short-term technical experts.
- Foster an enabling environment where staff are motivated, equipped, and empowered to achieve success.
- Coordinate with local and international consortium partners to maintain synergy and collaboration.
- Ensure performance management systems are in place and functional for all project staff.
- Stakeholder and Donor Engagement
- Serve as the primary liaison with USDA, host country governments, private sector partners, and other key stakeholders.
- Ensure proactive communication and collaboration with donor representatives and project stakeholders.
- Cultivate and maintain relationships with key partners to support program objectives and sustainability.
- Program Promotion and External Representation
- Act as the program’s key spokesperson at relevant regional and international forums.
- Present project outcomes, case studies, and innovations to global development audiences and donor representatives.
- Build TechnoServe’s visibility and credibility in agricultural development and market systems strengthening.
Required Qualifications
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline such as agricultural economics, economics, business, public policy, education, or international development. A bachelor’s degree with over 12 years of relevant experience may also be considered.
- Minimum of eight years of progressive professional experience in the field of international development, preferably in agriculture, market systems, or economic growth.
- Prior experience leading large-scale donor-funded programs (e.g., USDA, USAID) is highly desirable.
- Demonstrated leadership and management skills with the ability to direct multidisciplinary teams across geographies.
- Proven ability to work collaboratively with private sector actors, government officials, and community-level stakeholders.
- Familiarity with gender-integrated programming approaches will be considered an asset.
- Outstanding interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.
- Fluency in English is required.
Who Should Apply
TechnoServe is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity. All qualified candidates who align with the organization’s mission of reducing poverty through proven business solutions are encouraged to apply.
This opportunity is especially suited for professionals with a passion for creating measurable impact in agricultural development, a commitment to capacity building, and experience navigating complex donor-funded environments. If you thrive in high-impact roles, possess strategic acumen, and excel in stakeholder engagement, this position is tailored for you.
TechnoServe’s Commitment to Ethical Hiring
In line with TechnoServe’s dedication to ethical conduct and safeguarding, all candidates undergo rigorous background and reference checks prior to final selection. The organization maintains zero tolerance for abuse or exploitation and is committed to creating safe, inclusive, and respectful work environments.
Additionally, TechnoServe adheres to U.S. federal employment laws, including those governing rights of individuals with disabilities and protected veterans. Applicants are encouraged to review the Department of Labor’s “Know Your Rights” notice for more information.
Should you require any accommodation due to disability or experience difficulties with the application process, please contact the Human Resources department at [email protected] or call +1 202 785 4515 for support.
Equal Opportunity Employer
TechnoServe is proud to be an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. Discrimination based on race, gender, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, religion, disability status, or any other protected classification is strictly prohibited.
Conclusion
The Chief of Party position with TechnoServe’s USDA Food for Progress Program represents an extraordinary opportunity to lead a high-impact development initiative that directly contributes to agricultural transformation, economic growth, and community empowerment. If you are an experienced development professional ready to make a difference on a global stage, this role offers both challenge and reward.
Your leadership will shape the direction of a major USDA-funded program and leave a lasting legacy of impact in Kenya or one of the other designated countries. TechnoServe is looking for a driven and visionary individual to join its team and help chart the future of agricultural development for underserved communities.
For those ready to take on this meaningful role and join a team committed to excellence, collaboration, and innovation—now is your chance to make a lasting contribution to sustainable development.
To apply, please send your application via email to [email protected].
