Executive Director

Terms of Reference (TOR) for the Executive Director

Position Title: Executive Director

Organization: Centre for Agro-Ecology and Development (CAED)

Location: Kathmandu with frequent travel to programme areas, Nepal

Reporting To: Chairperson

Background

The Center for Agro-ecology and Development (CAED) is dedicated organization to advancing agro-ecological practices, promoting food sovereignty, social justice by working together with Dalit and indigenous communities, women, girls, and children in rights-based development approach. CAED is committed to community-driven solutions that address the challenges faced by marginalized populations and promote sustainable development.

Job Summary

The Executive Director (ED) will provide strategic leadership, oversee overall operations, and ensure the effective implementation of programmes in alignment with CAED’s mission and goals. Particularly, ED will be responsible to deliver results in the programme components of agro-ecology, food sovereignty, women and girl child rights, Dalit and indigenous rights. while representing the organization and maintaining strong relationships with local communities, government stakeholders and funding agencies.

Key Responsibilities

1. Leadership and Strategic Direction

• Lead the organization in the development and implementation of its vision, mission, and strategic goals.
• Oversee CAED’s programs, ensuring that they align with the organization's mission and objectives.
• Represent CAED to local and international stakeholders, including government authorities, donors, partners, and communities.
• Provide visionary leadership, ensuring the organization stays responsive to emerging challenges in agro-ecology, food sovereignty, and human rights.
• Ensure the design and implementation of effective programmes in the CAED’s working issues 

2. Operational Management

• Ensure efficient day-to-day management of CAED’s operations, ensuring the implementation of policies and procedures.
• Manage CAED’s resources effectively, ensuring financial sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and the appropriate allocation of resources.
• Ensure compliance with local laws, regulations, and donor requirements.
• Oversee program evaluation and ensure accountability and transparency in programme delivery.

3. Fundraising and Resource Mobilization

• Develop and implement a fundraising strategy to secure long-term financial resources for CAED’s programmes.
• Cultivate relationships with potential donors, partners, and other stakeholders to support CAED’s work.
• Lead grant proposal writing, donor reporting, and the management of financial relationships with donors.

4. Research, Advocacy and Networking

• Generate research evidences related to the  programme  issues and  carryout evidence based advocacy for required policies and programms
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with government agencies, NGOs, local communities, and international bodies to promote CAED’s mission.
• Represent CAED in key forums, meetings, conferences, and other relevant platforms related to its areas of work.

5. Team Management and Development

• Provide leadership and guidance to a diverse team of staff, ensuring that they are motivated, skilled, and aligned with CAED’s values and objectives.
• Promote a collaborative and inclusive organizational culture that values diversity and promotes gender equity.
• Oversee the recruitment, training, and development of staff, ensuring a high level of performance and professional growth.

6. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting

• Oversee monitoring, evaluation, and learning activities to assess the effectiveness and impact of CAED’s programmes.
• Regularly report on organizational performance, including financial, program outputs, and strategic milestones, to the executive committee and funding agencies.
• Ensure transparency and accountability in all organizational activities.

Key Qualifications and Experiences

• Master’s degree in any of the relevant fields including Development Studies, Environmental Science, Agro-Ecology, Social Sciences, Management, or a related area.
• At least 6 years of progressive experience working in mid-to-senior level leadership and management roles of a development organization, with a proven track record of successful program management, fundraising, and team leadership.
• Ability to manage finances, fundraising activities, and organizational growth in a non-profit setting.
• Experience of working in agro-ecology, human rights and SRHR issues in remote, indigenous communities of Nepal

Skills:

• Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent communication skills (oral and written) in both Nepali and English.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate vision into action.
• Strong understanding of monitoring and evaluation frameworks and evidence-based advocacy.
• Ability to work in challenging environments and with diverse, multicultural teams.

Terms and Conditions

Contract Type: Full-time, renewable based on performance and availability of fund

Duration: Initially 1-year with applicable probation period 

Salary and benefits: Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications and Standard benefits package according to CAED’s organizational policies 

Application Process

Interested candidates are invited to submit a cover letter and CV detailing relevant qualifications and experiences to caedvacancy@gmail.com by 31st January 2025. 

Competent candidates from socially excluded groups such as women Janajati and Dalit will be given preferences. Only Shortlisted candidates will be called for next round of the selection process.