Terms of Reference for Regenerative Agriculture Specialist (Regular Consultant)

Terms of Reference for Regenerative Agriculture Specialist (Regular Consultant)

1.     Background

Heifer International is a global development organization on a mission to end hunger and poverty in a sustainable way with caring for the earth through agriculture-based livelihoods and market system development programs. Heifer International Nepal aims to bring smallholder farm families above the living income benchmark sustainably through their engagement in competitive, sustainable, resilient, and inclusive agricultural value chains. Heifer considers regenerative agriculture as a viable approach for restoring and enhancing the agroecological health including improved improving soil quality, water retention, and overall farm resilience. The intention of regenerative agriculture is to increase the land’s ability to heal and restore itself, so the soil productivity remains sustainably sufficient. 

Nepal has geographical, socio-economic, agroecological and farming system diversity across diverse eco-belts in Nepal, we do have very limited access and adoption of regenerative agriculture practices. On the other hand, we do not have concrete evidence or model package of practice to recommend for the smallholder farmers thriving for sustainability and resiliency. On this drop back, Heifer is planning to implement a 2-year action research initiative on regenerative agriculture. This pilot initiative will be implemented in selected local governments of Dang and Pyuthan. It is expected the initiative enables the local extension service providers, smallholder farmer, their groups and cooperatives to build their capacity across different value chains for increased yield, income through adopting locally sustainable and regenerative agricultural practices. To coordinate this initiative and support local partner NGOs and community – Heifer International Nepal is seeking a Regenerative Agriculture Specialist as regular consultant.  

2.     Major role and Responsibilities

The Regenerative Agriculture Specialist will serve as a primary focal person for managing the action research pilot initiative on regenerative agriculture to be implemented in 4 local governments of Dang and 3 local governments of Pyuthan districts of Nepal. S/he shall coordinate with program team to provide technical backstopping to NGO partners on identifying site appropriate regenerative soil management technology and practices for improving soil health (fertility management, composting and organic farming practices, soil organic carbon, cover crops and green manuring, optimal tillage, crop diversity, carbon  sustainable yield, resilient farming system and so on), build capacity of project staffs on related field and provide proper guidance. S/he will be responsible to liaise with concerned project partners, technical partners, local government and other stakeholders for leveraging opportunities and collaboration for optimal project results. Specifically, s/he shall perform following responsibilities and deliverables: 

a.     Project management and technical support

• Prepare required guidelines for effective project implementation of regenerative agricultural practices at community level.
• Support partner NGOs to setup project activities, prepare detailed implementation plan (DIP), facilitate its smooth implementation
• Support partner NGOs on hiring competent project staffs and their effective mobilization, 
• Design and deliver capacity building events and package for the project staffs. 
• Participate in field events to guide and support field staffs on delivering technical assistance to farmers on adopting regenerative agricultural practices.
• Ensure the capacity building of project partners, including training and backstopping.
• Adopt appropriate strategies and plans at local level to meet the project goals and targets.
• Collaborate with thematic lead and ensure quality in project service delivery.

b.     Project coordination, monitoring, and reporting

• Visit project sites, collaborate with farmers, groups, field schools, demonstration plots to understand the context, progress, and follow up on recommendations.
• Ensure the project milestones, objectives and requirements are fulfilled.
• Regularly monitor, document and report the project progress and plan next steps as appropriate.
• Facilitate joint field missions, monitoring, review and evaluation sessions together with local governments and other concerned stakeholders.
• Build and maintain sound collaborative relationship with network of governments, I/NGOs, academia and other stakeholders for smooth implementation of interventions, leverage resource opportunities. 
• Coordinate with related private sectors and ensure that required services are delivered.
• Collaborate with MELS, NARC, University and other relevant institutions to document the results of interventions. 

c.    Networking and Knowledge Management 

• Assist in developing tools, techniques and resources for fostering regenerative agriculture competency at program level. 
• Support in designing and delivering regenerative agriculture and soil management related manuals, technology brief, tech-videos and extension resources
• Collaborate and support with NARC and University partner for synergy and efficiency of the project impact.
• Collaborate with Knowledge Management and Communication unit to document the project developed/promoted knowledge, practices, technologies and best practices, and disseminate through appropriate platforms. 
• Develop and maintain links with relevant professional service providers.
• Support lead farmers, groups, project partners to leverage resources from local/provincial government, and other opportunities.

d.     Other job-related duties as assigned 

3.     Job location and duration 

This position will be Dang based with extended travel to project areas. 

4.     Specific deliverables 

• Monthly progress reports as per project plan
• Profile of participating farmers and groups
• Technology adoption and result analysis reports  

5.     Required Qualifications and skills:

• At least Masters’ degree on Agricultural Science (preferably Soil Science) or equivalent plus a minimum of five (5) years of experience in related field.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with individuals from diverse cultural, socio-economic, and professional backgrounds.
• Strong interpersonal skills, leadership qualities and communication skills with an emphasis on inclusive communication, team environment, and relationship-building.
• Proven ability to manage time effectively, prioritize tasks, and navigate competing priorities.
• Proficient in word processing, spreadsheets, presentation tools, electronic mails, and internet with adaptability to learn new tools and technologies as needed.
• Ability to work under pressure while maintaining sensitivity to diverse needs and perspectives to meet deadlines equitably.

6.     Essential competencies:

• Ability to prepare and present documents in a well-designed and attractive format with superior attention to detail.
• Good team player with the ability to train and work cooperatively with a diverse staff, including field staff in several locations.
• Ability to work with sensitive information and maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to perform multiple tasks with minimal supervision.
• Willingness to work with a flexible schedule.
• Willingness to extensively travel to rural areas. 
• Able to effectively promote Heifer’s mission values, and objectives.
• Sensitivity in working with multiple cultures and beliefs, and to gender equity.

7.     How to Apply

Interested and eligible individuals are requested to submit application along with the following documents mentioning email subject line ‘application for Regenerative Agriculture Specialist’ to hr.nepal@heifer.org no later than 26th January 2025, 5: 00 PM.

1. Application cover letter mentioning expected monthly renumeration 
2. Updated CV highlighting relevant work experience 
3. Copy of two-wheel driving license 
4. Copy of Nepali citizenship 
5. Copy of PAN registration 

8.     Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belongingness 

Heifer International is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, inclusion and belongingness. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristics.

9.     Disclaimer 

Issuance of this notice does not obligate Heifer to hire a consultant, nor will pay any costs associated with the submission of application and participate in selection process. Furthermore, Heifer reserves the right to reject any and all applications, if such an action is considered to be in the best interest of the project.