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IDRC REGIONAL DIRECTOR FOR ASIA

The International Development Research Centre (IDRC), a Canadian Crown corporation, supports - financially and through capacity-building - research in developing regions to promote growth and development. The result is innovative, lasting local solutions that bring choice and change to those who need it most. We are looking for a dynamic, innovative leader to join our senior regional management team.

REGIONAL DIRECTOR FOR ASIA
New Delhi, India

The Regional Director is the focal point of IDRC’s presence and management in Asia. Reporting to the Vice-President for Corporate Strategy and Regional Management (CSRM), you will represent IDRC in Asia, provide regional intelligence, support the scientific and technical delivery of IDRC’s programming in a matrix environment, lead a multidisciplinary team of professionals, and manage the regional office.

You will also play a key role in ensuring the coherence and relevance of IDRC’s programming in the region. Current IDRC Program Areas are as follows:
• Agriculture and Environment
• Global Health Policy
• Science and Innovation
• Social and Economic Policy

Candidate Profile

Experience
The ideal candidate will have extensive professional work experience with an emphasis on developing regions, particularly Asia:
• in research and/or research management in a field related to one or more of IDRC’s Program Areas
• as an articulate and persuasive spokesperson for a research program or institution
• as a creative and innovative manager capable of leading and engaging a highly skilled team in a matrix environment, and administering financial resources
• in consulting and negotiating with stakeholders from different backgrounds

Knowledge
• Knowledge of development issues in Asia and understanding of their implications for IDRC’s work
• Knowledge about translating research into policy and practice
• Knowledge of development cooperation in general and of Canadian foreign and development assistance policy is highly desirable

Competencies
• Passion for IDRC’s Values, Vision, and Mandate: as IDRC’s representative in diplomatic, political, and international circles, communicates its values with conviction
• Value-Based Leadership: embraces and champions change, effectively represents IDRC values, and supports corporate strategies
• Management Excellence: manages research, human and financial resources to meet current and future organizational needs; communicates effectively in a variety of cultural settings and different fora, adapting message to suit audience; and at ease working within a matrix management system
• Strategic Agility: contributes to defining IDRC’s strategic directions by analyzing and communicating information gathered from various networks and partners in the field
• Engagement: reinforces collaboration and creates a sense of direction and purpose that inspires, motivates, and guides the regional office team
• Demonstrates superior interpersonal and communication skills to influence and engage with diverse audiences

Education
• PhD or a Master’s degree in a discipline related to the work of one of IDRC’s Program Areas and significant relevant experience

Language
• Superior English language skills
• Knowledge of basic French language skills
• Working knowledge of another language in use in the region is desirable

Additional Information

This position requires a willingness to undertake travel in the region, to Canada and other countries an average of between 80 – 90 days per year.

In addition to base salary, candidates will receive a monthly cost-of-living adjustment and competitive allowances (e.g. housing, transportation) as well as benefits.

To learn more about this unique career opportunity, please contact Christina Ngo, Director of SRI Executive Search at cngo@sri-executive.com. To apply for this position, please email your curriculum vitae and supporting cover letter highlighting your experience and skills against the requirements of this position in confidence to cngo@sri-executive.com no later than June 24, 2012.

An equal opportunity employer, IDRC encourages applications from qualified women, Aboriginal peoples, persons with disabilities and members of visible minorities.