Deputy Team Leader - Zambia

Start Date: Q1 2026

Length of Engagement: 2-year fixed term, with possibility to renew

Location: This role will be based in Lusaka, with travel to field locations.

Introduction

The RAINZ Programme aims to improve climate resilience and reduce poverty in Zambia by enhancing agricultural productivity and natural resource management. The programme focuses on three main areas: policy reform, market development, and access to finance and climate information, targeting smallholder farmers. Over a seven-year period, the programme will work across multiple sectors, driving inclusive, sustainable growth and climate adaptation efforts.

Scope of Work

The Deputy Team Leader will support the Team Leader in the overall strategic and technical leadership of the project. Along with other members of the Senior Management Team, they will represent the project, raise awareness and understanding of its work amongst key stakeholders and decision makers. This is a portfolio role, and the Deputy Team Leader will be responsible for ensuring efficient, timely, and effective implementation of interventions and the continued development of the intervention portfolio. Alongside the Team Leader, they will hold responsibility for leading, managing, motivating, and developing project staff under line management, encouraging commitment to project objectives while meeting personal development needs.

The Deputy Team Leader, alongside the MEL Lead, will drive the development and management of lessons for the project, suggesting solutions and refinements to the programme approach, and collaborating with the Communications Lead on diffusion with outside stakeholders such as the private sector, other donors, and government counterparts. They will also report directly to the Team Leader on emerging or outstanding programmatic risks and assist in designing mitigation measures, alongside the Senior Programme Manager.

Requirements

• Degree in a relevant field preferred, or demonstrable professional experience.

• At least 10 years of professional experience, preferably within international development, in managerial positions, or in the agricultural sector.

• Experience with donors

• Strong understanding of portfolio management, communications, and programme management functions.

• Familiarity and understanding of Zambian labour law and registration.

• Strong organisational, management, financial, and administrative skills.