The West African Science Service Center on Climate Change and Adapted Land Use, an international organization set up by its 10 member countries – Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d‘Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal and Togo together with Germany – invites applications for the position of Executive Director to lead the organization from its headquarters in Accra, Ghana. The Executive Director implements and directs the further development of the WASCAL strategic plan and reports to its Governing Board. WASCAL coordinates 10 graduate schools at different universities around the region and manages a research/service center in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. WASCAL maintains very strong ties with the climate change research community in Germany.

WASCAL is a leading academic and trans-disciplinary research organization serving policy makers in West Africa with science-based advice on adaptation to climate change of land use and management. It cooperates with many agencies and universities in the region, providing a knowledge platform of excellence for its partners. WASCAL is linked closely with other international organizations in its mandate zone. The Executive Director provides intellectual leadership to WASCAL’s integrated research on social, economic, biological, agricultural and physical themes in addressing climate change issues of central importance in the development of West Africa. A scientific committee provides strategic guidance to WASCAL.

Qualification Required & Experience

•  The successful candidate will be expected to hold a PhD or equivalent and have a strong academic record in a climate change-related subject with wide experience in interdisciplinary development research.
•  Considerable experience as an executive administrator of international research programs in or with developing countries, networking with regional agencies and a record of successful fundraising is expected.
•  The incumbent should have excellent communication skills and be fluent in English and conversant in French.

The Executive Director will be appointed for a term of four years starting on or around January 1, 2014, renewable once with an attractive tax-free remuneration package. WASCAL offers a challenging working environment with extensive travel obligations.

Location: Nationwide Recruitment

How To Apply For The Job

Applications or nominations are to be addressed electronically to Dr. Mamadou Ouattara at:-

Ouattara.m@wascal.org

Applications should include curriculum vitae, a list of publications, a statement of research interests, and the names and contact information of three referees.

Closing Date: 15 May 2013

In your application please specify that you found out about this job opportunity on Ghanacurrentjobs.com. With a view towards increasing the number of women in leading positions, WASCAL specifically encourages women to apply.