CIMMYT is a cutting edge, non-profit, international organization dedicated to solving tomorrow's problems today. It is entrusted with fostering improved quantity, quality, and dependability of production systems and basic cereals such as maize, wheat, triticale, sorghum, millets, and associated crops through applied agricultural science, particularly in the Global South, through building strong partnerships. This combination enhances the livelihood trajectories and resilience of millions of resource-poor farmers, while working towards a more productive, inclusive, and resilient agrifood system within planetary boundaries. For more information, visit cimmyt.org.

CIMMYT is seeking a dynamic, visionary, and results-oriented Head of Talent Management to lead our global talent strategy and initiatives. This is a key leadership role that requires someone who is not only a strategic thinker but also an innovative leader with the ability to drive change and create solutions in complex, multicultural environments. The successful candidate will oversee all talent acquisition, development, performance management, succession planning, and retention strategies, while also guiding and mentoring a high-performing team.

Based at CIMMYT's headquarters in Texcoco, Mexico, the Head of Talent Management will work closely with senior leadership and HR teams globally to enhance talent management practices and build a strong organizational culture that supports CIMMYT’s 2030 strategy.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Talent Acquisition & Workforce Planning:

• Lead the development and implementation of global talent acquisition strategies to attract diverse, high-caliber talent across regions, with a focus on expanding the reach of CIMMYT’s recruitment efforts.
• Innovate resourcing solutions and develop inclusive recruitment practices that promote diversity and gender inclusion across all levels of the organization.
• Collaborate with HR teams to ensure that recruitment campaigns align with CIMMYT’s values and long-term organizational goals.
• Design and implement effective workforce planning models ensuring a strong pipeline of future leaders.

2. Performance & Talent Management:

• Oversee the annual performance management and talent review processes, ensuring that they are aligned with CIMMYT’s strategic objectives and effectively drive individual and team performance.
• Analyze and leverage talent metrics to inform decisions and drive action, focusing on succession planning, internal promotions, and employee development.
• Facilitate the use of talent analytics to identify skill gaps and future talent needs, recommending targeted development programs and initiatives.
• Ensure continuous feedback is integrated into the performance management process, promoting a culture of learning and growth.

3. Career Development & Succession Planning:

• Lead the design and implementation of career development strategies, focusing on providing opportunities for growth and career progression at all levels, particularly in regional and international offices.
• Partner with senior leadership to define clear career pathways and support staff in their career journey, in alignment with CIMMYT’s long-term strategic vision.
• Develop and implement robust succession planning strategies, ensuring that key positions are filled with well-prepared internal candidates and identifying high-potential talent for leadership roles.

4. Training & Development:

• Lead the design and execution of training programs that foster employee development, improve organizational skills, and drive employee engagement.
• Identify and partner with external training providers to enhance the global training offering and ensure CIMMYT remains competitive in providing career development opportunities.
• Collaborate with the CIMMYT Academy to create a diverse and impactful learning environment that supports both technical and leadership development.
• Innovate training solutions that address current organizational needs, incorporating blended learning and modern training technologies.

5. Leadership & Team Development:

• Lead, mentor, and inspire a team, providing clear direction, professional development, and accountability.
• Build a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement within the Talent Management team, ensuring that global talent strategies are effectively executed.
• Provide guidance and functional leadership to HR teams in international offices, ensuring alignment with global strategies while being sensitive to local needs and cultural differences.

Requirements

• Education: Master’s degree in Human Resources, Organizational Development, International HR Management, Business Administration, or related field.
• Minimum 15 years of progressive HR experience in a global environment, with at least 8 years in talent management, learning and development, or organizational development.
• Proven experience in designing, developing, and managing comprehensive talent management programs, including performance management, succession planning, employee development, and training.
• Experience in managing and leading teams, with a track record of mentoring and developing high-performing individuals.
• Significant international experience, ideally having lived and worked in multiple countries and exposed to a variety of cultures.
• Experience working in the non-profit, international, or NGO sectors is a plus.
• Strong strategic thinking with the ability to create and implement innovative talent management solutions.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence and engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Highly results-oriented with a strong track record of driving organizational change and delivering impactful programs.
• Deep intercultural competence with the ability to navigate complex, multicultural environments.
• Proven ability to think outside the box and design talent management solutions from the ground up.
• Excellent command of English (required), with proficiency in Spanish being a strong advantage.
• The selected candidate should exhibit the following competencies:Leadership & People Management, Strategic Thinking & Innovation, Performance & Talent Management, Cross-Cultural Competence & Global Perspective, Employee Engagement & Organizational Development, Data-Driven Decision Making & Talent Analytics and Relationship Building & Stakeholder Management

The position is for an initial fixed term for three (3) years, after which further employment is subject to performance and the continued availability of funds. CIMMYT’s internationally competitive salary and benefits include housing allowance, car, comprehensive health, and life insurance, assistance for children’s education, paid vacation, annual home travel airfare, contribution to a retirement plan, and generous assistance with relocation shipment.

Benefits

Candidates must apply for IRS24151 Head of Talent Management

Screening and follow-up of applications will begin on April 28, 2025.

Applications must include a CV with contact details (telephone and email address) of 3 work-related references along with the confirmation that Recruitment can contact them) and a cover letter.

Incomplete applications will not be taken into consideration.

Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

This position will remain open until filled.

CIMMYT is an equal opportunity employer. It fosters a multicultural work environment that values gender equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity. Women are encouraged to apply.