(RFP500607) – ASSOCIATE OFFICER- BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AND DIVERSIFICATION - NAIROBI , KENYA

ASSOCIATE OFFICER - BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AND DIVERSIFICATION Location: Nairobi, Kenya Reference: RFP500607 Salary: KES 307,706 per month (Grade BG08) Contract: 1 year initial term (subject to 3-month probation, renewable) ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION The Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT is a global research powerhouse dedicated to transforming food systems through agricultural biodiversity and sustainable innovation. Operating as part of CGIAR, a worldwide research partnership focused on food security, the Alliance develops science-backed solutions that tackle malnutrition, climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation. Our work creates meaningful impact across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and beyond by bridging research and real-world application through strategic partnerships and evidence-based practices. THE OPPORTUNITY This role offers a dynamic platform to drive innovation and business development across East and Southern Africa. Reporting to the Senior Manager of Business Development and Diversification, you will champion the transition of cutting-edge agricultural research into commercially viable solutions. You will orchestrate innovation initiatives that connect researchers, startups, investors, government bodies, and corporate partners, while building a thriving regional innovation ecosystem centered on agri-tech and climate-tech advancement. WHAT YOU WILL DO You will lead the design and execution of technology transfer and innovation projects throughout East and Southern Africa, managing the complete journey from research identification through market commercialization. Your responsibilities include coordinating innovation programs such as bootcamps and accelerators, facilitating startup-researcher collaboration, and ensuring strategic alignment between scientific outputs and market demands. You will develop and nurture partnerships across multiple countries, monitor stakeholder engagement, and represent the Alliance at investment forums and industry events. Your efforts will include supporting venture-building initiatives from concept through operational launch, identifying regional business opportunities, and contributing to resource mobilization through proposal development. Additionally, you will create compelling knowledge products including case studies, research summaries, and presentations that document innovation scaling successes and lessons learned. You will maintain updated stakeholder databases and support comprehensive program monitoring and documentation. WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR You hold a master's degree in business, innovation management, economics, international development, entrepreneurship, or a related discipline. You bring professional experience in innovation programs, startup ecosystems, venture building, or international development work. Direct experience with agri-tech or climate-tech innovations is essential, along with demonstrated success managing multi-country or international projects. Your background includes collaboration with private-sector organizations, investors, and startup communities. You have supported proposal development and partnership activities that advanced resource mobilization goals. You possess strong analytical and strategic thinking abilities, excellent stakeholder engagement and partnership-building skills, and demonstrated expertise in venture-building processes and commercialization strategies. Your communication and presentation capabilities are exceptional, and you excel at managing multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining organizational excellence. WHAT WE OFFER A competitive salary package with comprehensive benefits including health insurance, retirement planning, professional training and development opportunities, generous paid time off, and flexible working arrangements. You will join an organization committed to creating inclusive, fair, and safe workplaces where diversity strengthens innovation and excellence. The Alliance actively welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds, including women, and is dedicated to building teams that reflect our global character and mission. HOW TO APPLY Visit https://www.bioversityinternational.org/jobs/ to access complete position details and submit your application. Reference the position code RFP500607 in your submission. Combine your application materials and CV into a single document, naming the file with your last name and first name. Closing Date: October 16, 2026 Please note: The Alliance does not charge application fees at any stage of the recruitment process and will not request bank account information. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. Email applications will not be considered. Learn more about our work at alliancebioversityciat.org