Chief of Party, USAID Agriculture and Food Systems Development Activity (AFDA), Myanmar

Since 1963 and in 148 countries, ACDI/VOCA has empowered people in developing and transitional nations to succeed in the global economy. Based in Washington, D.C., ACDI/VOCA is a nonprofit international development organization that designs and delivers technical and management solutions in agriculture, economic growth, and resilience to promote economic prosperity and social inclusion.

Chief of Party, USAID Agriculture and Food Systems Development Activity (AFDA), Myanmar

ACDI/VOCA is seeking a Chief of Party for the Agriculture and Food Systems Development Activity (AFDA) in Myanmar funded by USAID. The Activity advances peace and reduces interethnic tensions by creating bonds of mutual self-interest and urban-rural linkages along production and market value-chains with marginalized ethnic groups in conflict areas. In line with the U.S. Government’s Global Food Security Strategy, AFDA facilitates the transformation of agriculture and food systems by increasing productivity, inclusiveness, and competitiveness of key sectors in the Zone of Influence: Shan, Kachin, Mandalay, Sagaing, and Magway.

The Chief of Party will serve as the representative for all aspects of the program and provide oversight of technical activities, administration, human resources, and finances. They will lead the technical team in designing the operational strategy, developing the program work plan, and driving the implementation of program activities. Additionally, they will monitor progress to ensure program goals and reporting requirements are met on time and within budget in compliance with USAID and ACDI/VOCA policies and procedures. This position is based in Yangon, Myanmar through March 2026.

Responsibilities

• Lead the overall strategic planning, implementation, and management of the program
• Ensure high quality technical leadership and oversight is in place for the program’s quality control and timeliness of all deliverables
• Develop strategic plans, annual and quarterly work plans, and overall management of the program in line with USAID guidelines to achieve objectives
• Prepare and supervise the development of work plans, reports, financial documents, and logistical matters in coordination with the home office
• Monitor program indicators, evaluate program results, and guide program implementation to achieve maximum impact
• Ensure that cross-cutting issues, including gender and social inclusion, are effectively integrated into all components of the project implementation in alignment with the programs’ results framework
• Develop systems that support collaborating, learning and adapting (CLA), including establishing a culture of adaptive management
• Maintain positive relationships with USAID, partners, local authorities, key stakeholders, and the country office team
• Identify and effectively manage all key risks related to the program, including compliance with donor transparency and due diligence requirements

Qualifications

• A Master’s degree (equivalent) or higher in any area of development, business, education, or related field
• Minimum 10 years of relevant experience in senior project management
• Relevant experience in managing agricultural/agribusiness/value chain development projects of this size and scope in developing countries, preferably Asia
• Strong ability to manage and deal with diverse stakeholders
• Demonstrated ability to lead a diverse team on projects of similar scale (financially, culturally, staff size, and activities)
• Experience in leading similar work for donors/U.S. Government agencies or international NGOs
• Strong technical expertise in market systems and value chain development
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Demonstrated strong writing and oral presentation skills in English