JOB DESCRIPTION
POSITION: Project Lead
LOCATION: Lucknow
REPORTS TO: VP- Farm Sector
LEVEL/GRADE: AVP
About ACCESS:
ACCESS Development Services is a national livelihoods promotion organization with a focus on incubating innovations and developing sustainable models for livelihoods promotion of the poor. To this end, ACCESS is structured uniquely to work at all levels of the value chain – implementing programmes on the ground (Tier I), working with Civil Society Organizations, Government Departments, Corporate sector, and Multilateral / Bilateral Agencies (Tier II) as also undertaking national initiatives to influence and support policy initiatives and strengthening the enabling environment (Tier III). ACCESS, with its head office in New Delhi has a pan-India presence having state offices in 9 states and 26 project offices. More at www.accessdev.org
Project Summary:
The Gates Foundation’s Green Tech Cluster (GTC) Program aims to boost agricultural growth in Uttar Pradesh by developing seven agro-ecological clusters focused on high-value, climate-resilient crops (e.g., millets, maize, potatoes, vegetables). In partnership with the Government of Uttar Pradesh, the program promotes the adoption of cutting-edge agritech (e.g., drones, biofertilizers, hydrogels) to increase productivity and sustainability for small-scale producers (SSPs), while creating profitable value chains.
Position Summary:
ACCESS is inviting applications for an experienced and strategic Project Lead to oversee program design and execution, lead the program management team, and coordinate with stakeholders to ensure effective adoption and scale-up of climate-smart, high-yield agritech in cluster areas. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in agricultural development, proven leadership & monitoring skills, and a deep understanding of both input and output marketing. Experience in promoting climate-smart agriculture practices is essential.
Responsibilities:
Program Management
• Lead the GTC State Program Management Unit (SPMU) based in Lucknow, managing stakeholder relations, identifying relevant technologies, and driving the adoption of targeted agritech solutions across clusters.
• Ensure implementation plans for the project are in place as per project deliverables, financial projection, and team progress
• Regular review and supervision of all projects staff in the state and provide technical support to the project team
• Supervise and manage team performance and monitor progress of the team
• Effective coordination with ACCESS HQ and timely donor reporting
Stakeholder Engagement:
• Collaborate with the Department of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare, Government of UP, key FPCs/FPOs, and private sector partners to build robust partnerships that enhance value chains and market access.
Capacity Building & Training:
• Oversee development of training modules, Monitoring & Information Systems (MIS), and hub-level knowledge sharing to ensure best practices.
Reporting & Analysis:
• Conduct program reviews, analyze data for productivity trends, and support the development of strategic reports and recommendations.
Education & Experience:
1. At least 8-10 years of relevant experience of implementing value chain development projects related to enterprise development and training and livelihood promotion.
2. Master’s degree from any recognized university, preferably in Agriculture, MBA Agribusiness, MBA in Rural Management.
3. At least 3 years of experience of managing a field implementation team, liaising with government departments and holds experience in working with the farmer groups, watershed management, natural resource management and climate resilient agricultural practices.
Skills and Competencies:
1. Project & Team Management.
2. Communication, Reporting & Documentation. Excellent written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
3. Networking; Liaison with Stakeholders.
4. Ability to converse fluently in Hindi, English and in local language.
5. Thorough understanding of Climate Resilient Agriculture practices - production, processing, storage and distribution with emphasis on water efficient agriculture farmer’s adoption systems.
6. Data analytics skill is preferable.
Travel Requirement:
Willingness to travel is required to implement the project efficiently.
Compensation:
The salary range for this position is commensurate to industry standards and will be determined based upon the experience set of the candidate and the HR policies of the organization.
ACCESS is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and is committed to providing an environment of fairness, and mutual respect where all applicants have access to equal employment opportunities. ACCESS values diversity and inclusion, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, caste, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, marital status, age and disability.
Apply Here: https://forms.gle/RkjyYHxzpawh7ygS7