African Plant Nutrition Institute (APNI) > Employment > Open Position: Regional Coordinator for East Africa

Open Position: Regional Coordinator for East Africa

APNI is seeking a qualified candidate for the position of  Regional Coordinator for East Africa for its regional office in Nairobi, Kenya

 

About the African Plant Nutrition Institute 

APNI is a not-for-profit research and development Institute based in Benguérir, Morocco. The Institute works to develop and promote sustainable plant nutrition management practices and innovation through research, education, and outreach. It has research projects in East, West, and North Africa. APNI was launched in 2019, and this new position offers the opportunity to join a rapidly growing team that is dedicated to improving farmer livelihood through proper crop nutrition. It currently has four offices across Africa. 

Please refer to our website for more information: www.apni.net 

 

Purpose of the Position 

The African Plant Nutrition Institute (APNI) is seeking qualified candidates for the Regional Coordinator for East Africa position (RCEA). The RCEA will lead APNI’s strategy implementation, research programs, and stakeholder engagement in East Africa. The role is pivotal in driving institutional growth, delivering high-impact plant nutrition and soil health solutions, and mobilizing resources to expand APNI’s footprint in the region. 

 

Terms of Reference 

The position will lead the implementation of APNI strategy in East Africa and drive institutional growth by managing and overseeing regional operations developing impactful research, developing programs addressing plant nutrition challenges in East Africa and contributing to resources mobilization.   

 

Key Responsibilities  

A. Strategic Leadership & Regional Program Development 

  1. Develop and implement a regional strategic plan aligned with APNI’s mission and 2025–2030 Strategy.
  2. Translate APNI’s research priorities into impactful programs addressing plant nutrition challenges in East Africa. 
  3. Monitor emerging agricultural, environmental, and policy trends to inform program design. 

B. Partnership Development & Representation 

  1. Establish and strengthen partnerships with governments, NARES, universities, CGIAR centers, private sector actors, farmer organizations, NGOs, and development partners. 
  2. Represent APNI in regional and international forums, enhancing visibility and influence. 
  3. Collaborate with partners to leverage resources and scale innovations. 

C. Research Design, Implementation & Innovation 

  1. Lead or support the design and execution of research programs in APNI’s thematic areas, ensuring scientific rigor and relevance. 
  2. Facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration to address complex production challenges. 
  3. Ensure transparent measurement and demonstration of APNI’s regional impact. 

D. Resource Mobilization 

  1. Identify funding opportunities and lead the preparation of competitive proposals. 
  2. Work closely with internal teams and external partners to secure funding from donors, foundations, and the private sector. 

E. Knowledge Sharing & Communication 

  1. Publish research outputs in high-impact journals and present findings at conferences. 
  2. Develop policy briefs, technical reports, and other knowledge products for diverse audiences. 
  3. Engage with media and stakeholders to raise awareness of APNI’s work and impact. 

F. Capacity Development & Mentorship 

  1. Support APNI’s training and capacity-building initiatives for researchers, extension practitioners, and young scientists. 
  2. Mentor junior regional staff and interns, fostering professional growth and leadership. 

 

Qualifications and Experience 

Requirement  Details 
Education  Ph.D. in Agricultural sciences, environmental sciences, geography, Development studies or related field. 
Experience & Skills  At least 7 years of post-doctoral experience in research for development, partnership building and agricultural stakeholder coordination & management preferably in East Africa.  

 
Communication  Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English; knowledge of French is added advantage. 
Teamwork  Proven ability to work in multi-cultural, multi-disciplinary teams. 
Publications  Demonstrated record of publications in high impact peer-reviewed journals. 

 

Duration and Location 

The announcement is for a full-time and permanent position, subject to completing a satisfactory 6-month probation period and performance.  

Duty Station: APNI’s regional offices in Nairobi, Kenya

 

Qualified candidates should send all application materials in English, including a detailed CV, an application letter, and the email addresses of three professional references to employment@apni.net with the position name Regional Coordinator for East Africa mentioned in the subject line.  

The deadline for application is 30th of September 2025. Only candidates receiving an interview will be contacted.