Consultancy- ARC-based potato seed production-West Bengal (C-24-32)

The International Potato Center (CIP) is seeking 10 consultants with a strong commitment to proactive learning, ready to take on responsibilities at various levels for ARC-based potato seed production across West Bengal.

The consultants must demonstrate a strong commitment to proactive learning and be ready to take on diverse responsibilities related to ARC-based potato seed production throughout West Bengal. They will oversee the full implementation and reporting of field activities, with positions located in both North and South Bengal. This role will coordinate directly to the CIP Project Manager in West Bengal and is a temporary contractual assignment, with the possibility of extension based on performance and available budget. The role requires frequent travel across West Bengal to ensure effective on-ground coordination and execution.

Objectives:

• Coordinate with the project team to assist local partners in seed value chain development, which includes varietal selection, identifying suitable areas for open field seed multiplication, establishing low-cost seed production systems, developing marketing linkages, promoting seed entrepreneurship, and building capacity.
  
• Oversee quality control of work plans to ensure that project priorities, delivery goals, and technology dissemination are clearly understood and effectively executed across local farmer group partnerships.
  
• Develop and maintain flexible and accountable processes for the timely planning and delivery of development activities, including technology dissemination and reporting.
  
• Ensure that project implementation is responsive to community and partner needs while aligning with CIP’s principles and values.
  
• Monitor adherence to consultancy contracts, CIP policies and procedures, and relevant external rules and regulations.
  
  

Requirements

• A degree in Science or B.Sc. in Agriculture/Horticulture is preferred.
  
• Relevant work experience in agriculture, nursery management, or seed production.
  
• Field-based rural development project promoting agricultural or other technological innovation, preferably in potato in India.
  
• Strong experience of using communication technologies as extension field work supporting tools.
  
• Experience working on field-based rural development projects that promote agricultural or technological innovations, preferably in potato farming within India.
  
• Proficiency in basic computer skills.
  
• Strong organizational and time management abilities.
  
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively within a team.
  
• Willingness to travel frequently within districts of West Bengal.
  
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills in English; proficiency in Hindi, Nepali, and Bengali is an added advantage.