Country Representative

• Job Title : Country Representative
• Work Location : Representation Office in Dakar/Thiès
• Direct Manager : Program Coordinator, based at Solidagro’s headquarters in Belgium
• Contract : Renewable fixed-term contract (possibility of permanent contract upon good performance)

The NGO Solidagro is a Belgian non-governmental organization active in development cooperation. Solidagro contributes to the realization of the global right to food and water by promoting the agroecological food system. Throughout the production-to-consumption chain, we convince organizations and individuals to support organic agriculture and its products. We strengthen movements that defend agroecology, and we advocate with governments to create a favorable legal framework and implement effective policies that promote agroecology. We contribute to reducing the power of actors in the industrial food system, to greater food sovereignty for nations and peoples, and to increasing climate justice. Solidagro works with local partner associations in a spirit of mutual respect, exchange, and dialogue.

Purpose of the position

Under the supervision of the Program Coordinator for the NGO Solidagro, the Country Representative is responsible for managing the Solidagro national office in Thiès and implementing the organization’s strategies and programs in Senegal. The first few months will include an immersion in the Dakar office to ensure effective orientation to the role. They oversee the technical and financial execution of projects in collaboration with local partners and ensure the institutional representation of Solidagro in the country.

Description of Main Responsibilities

Under the supervision of the Solidagro Program Coordinator, the incumbent is responsible for:

• Managing the Solidagro national office in Senegal in accordance with Solidagro’s terms and conditions, including personnel management;
• Assume responsibility for the development, implementation, and strategic, technical, and financial monitoring of Solidagro programs in Senegal, in line with Solidagro’s strategic orientations, including technical and financial reporting in accordance with the terms and conditions of the various donors and Solidagro;
• Ensure the effective and compliant implementation of Solidagro programs in Senegal, ensuring compliance with commitments made to donors;
• Coordinate the monitoring and support of local partners in project implementation, ensuring the quality and relevance of interventions. To facilitate communication and collaboration with local partners, authorities, other civil society organizations, and the Belgian Embassy.
• To organize meetings, exchanges, and networking activities between partners to strengthen synergies and share experiences.
• To plan and supervise partners’ organizational strengthening activities based on identified needs and program objectives.
• To ensure the drafting and submission of narrative and financial reports to donors and Solidagro headquarters, in accordance with contractual requirements.
• To identify new opportunities for collaboration and funding for the development of Solidagro’s actions in Senegal.
• To represent Solidagro in Senegal with institutions, civil society platforms, and cooperation networks in West Africa.
• To implement communication policies and campaigns defined by Solidagro in line with the organization’s mission and values. To monitor, analyze, and report on the political, socioeconomic, and humanitarian context, and adapt program strategies accordingly.
• To lead, train, and support the regional office team, fostering a positive working environment and ensuring the professional development of each individual.
• To manage risks related to program implementation, ensuring compliance with internal policies and procedures as well as the requirements of donors and local authorities.
• To coordinate and manage collaboration with and between Solidagro program partners in Senegal (support-monitoring, communication, organizational strengthening needs, relationship management, networking, etc.);
• To contribute to the sharing of experiences, practices, and lessons learned between partners, the West Africa regional office, and Solidagro headquarters in Belgium;
• To work closely with Solidagro colleagues in other countries (Belgium, Burkina Faso, etc.) on issues of communication, advocacy, fundraising, etc.;

Desired profile

We are looking for a committed and proactive individual with excellent leadership and team management skills. The ideal candidate is a natural communicator, capable of building strong relationships with partners and representing Solidagro with professionalism and conviction. They are comfortable in a multicultural and international environment, adapt to diverse realities, and can independently juggle multiple priorities. They are capable of making strategic decisions and managing complex challenges with rigor, diplomacy, and initiative. The ideal candidate is passionate about sustainable agricultural development and food sovereignty, and has a strong commitment to social justice and human rights.

Required qualifications and experience :

• Master’s degree (BAC +5) in sustainable development, social sciences, agronomy, project management, or a relevant field. Or a BAC +4 may be considered with significant experience (minimum 7-10 years) in similar roles.

Professional Experience :

• Minimum of 8 years of work experience;
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in development program management, preferably within international NGOs;
• Proven experience in managing multicultural and multidisciplinary teams.
• Significant experience in West Africa, particularly in Senegal;
• Experience collaborating with local partners, government authorities, and donors.

Skills :

• Project Management : Demonstrated competence in planning, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating development programs;
• Financial Management : Ability to manage budgets, ensure financial tracking, and prepare financial reports in accordance with donor requirements;
• Human Resources Management : Ability to supervise, train, and motivate staff, fostering a collaborative and respectful work environment;
• Communication : Excellent written and oral communication skills in French and good written and oral skills in English;
  Thematic Knowledge : In-depth understanding of the concepts of agroecology, food security, and sustainable development; understanding and knowledge of the gender approach;
• Partner Relations : Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with various stakeholders, including local NGOs, government institutions, and beneficiary communities;
  Subscribe to the values ​​and code of ethics of the NGO Solidagro;

Assets :

• Knowledge of local languages ​​spoken in the region (e.g., Wolof, Serer, Pulaar, Mandingo, etc.).
• Experience in resource mobilization and proposal writing.
• Understanding of local policies and regulatory frameworks relevant to development programs.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to work environments

What we offer :

By joining Solidagro, you will have the opportunity to grow in a dynamic and committed environment, where your skills and leadership will have a real impact. We offer:

• A one-year contract, which can lead to a permanent contract (CDI) subject to a positive evaluation, with competitive salary conditions adapted to the sector.
• Health insurance covering the employee and their immediate family (spouse and dependent children).
• A stimulating and supportive work environment, where team spirit and collaboration are at the heart of our work.
• The opportunity to work within an international organization committed to a more just and sustainable world.
• The opportunity to lead and inspire a team, and to develop and implement a national program.
• Significant autonomy and flexibility to innovate and propose strategies adapted to local realities.
• Training and professional development opportunities to enhance your skills in management, leadership, and international cooperation.
• A work-life balance, with a flexible work environment tailored to the needs of the position.
• Enriching travel opportunities in West Africa and Europe, collaborating with partners and monitoring programs.

If you want to join a passionate team and contribute to meaningful projects, this position is for you!

Equal Opportunities and Diversity :

Solidagro encourages diversity and equal opportunities in its recruitment process. We select candidates based on their skills and commitment, regardless of their gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, origin, or disability. We particularly encourage women and people from underrepresented backgrounds to apply.

Availability : Immediate

Application Procedure :

Interested candidates are invited to submit their CV and a cover letter detailing their experience, three reference contacts, salary expectations, and suitability for the position before March 29, 2025.

Important: Applications must be submitted via the Emploi Dakar platform. Any application submitted by email or any other channel will not be considered and will result in automatic disqualification.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an initial interview and then a written test to assess their skills and understanding of the position.

Following the results of the written test, a final interview phase may be scheduled with the selected candidates.