Call for Expression of Interest - Join IITA Consultancy Talent Pool

Location: Various (Remote and On-site Assignments)

Background

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is a not-for-profit institution that generates agricultural innovations to meet Africa’s most pressing challenges of hunger, malnutrition, poverty, and natural resource degradation. Working with various partners across sub- Saharan Africa, we improve livelihoods, enhance food and nutrition security, increase employment, and preserve natural resource integrity. IITA is a member of the One CGIAR, a global agriculture research partnership for a food-secure future. Please visit for more information on IITA.

Objective of the Assignment

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is seeking to expand its database of qualified consultants to support its diverse programs and initiatives across Africa and beyond. We are inviting qualified individual consultants who are experienced professionals and subject matter experts to express interest in joining our Consultancy Talent Pool. This initiative aims to build a robust database of individual consultants who can be engaged for short-term assignments across IITA’s diverse operational areas in Africa and beyond.

Areas of Expertise Sought/ Scope of Services

We welcome applications from consultants with demonstrated expertise in one or more of the thematic areas:

• Agricultural Research & Development
• Cassava, Banana/Plantain, and Maize Breeding
• Biotechnology
• Seed systems, including tissue culture systems
• Agronomy
• Plant health management
• Natural resource management (soil health, greenhouse gases)
• Mechanization
• Climate adaptation
• Nutrition
• Food science and technology
• Forecasting and impact assessment
• Gender, youth, and inclusion
• Post-harvest management
• Agribusiness and value chain development
• Delivery and scaling
• Innovation system
• Scaling innovations
• Partners engagement/partnerships

• Support service

• Data Management

• Research methods and biometrics

• Business & Development
• Business Development and Support
• Resource Mobilization
• Project & Organizational Management
• Project Management and Development
• Corporate Services
• Human Resources and Organizational Development
• Capacity Strengthening and Training (curriculum and manual design, graphic design, Training of Trainers design, comprehensive organizational needs assessment, impact evaluation of capacity strengthening interventions)
• Finance & Administration
• Finance and Grants Management
• Technology & Communication
• ICT and Digital Solutions
• Communications and Knowledge Management
• Agricultural Policy & Social Sciences
• Agricultural Policy and Advocacy
• Social Science and Agribusiness
• Field survey design and data collections
• Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL)
• Internal Audit
• Investigations specialists
• Internal auditors

• Interpreters

• (English French)

Requirements

Eligibility Criteria

Interested individuals must meet the following minimum requirements:

• Proven expertise and experience in one or more of the listed thematic areas
• A minimum of ten years of relevant professional experience
• Strong track record of consultancy assignments with international organizations or research institutions
• Ability to work independently and deliver high-quality outputs within agreed timelines
• Strong analytical, communication, and reporting skills

Application Process

To express interest, interested applicants should complete the online application on IITA website: by attaching

• Updated CV highlighting relevant experience
• Cover letter indicating areas of expertise and interest
• Two professional references from previous consultancy engagements
• Any relevant certifications or supporting documents

Deadline for Submission

Applications should be sent no later than 30th April 2026.

Important Notes

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted consultants will be included in IITA’s consultancy database for consideration in future assignments. While all applications will be acknowledged, please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted

Note: Inclusion in the talent pool does not guarantee engagement. Consultants will be contacted as opportunities arise that match their expertise.

IITA is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce. We strongly encourage applications from qualified women and individuals from underrepresented groups.