Job Description

Designation: Chief Program Officer - Sustainable Agriculture

Organization: SwitchON Foundation

Location: Kolkata, West Bengal

Work Experience: Minimum 15 years 

Language Proficiency: Hindi, English

About SwitchON Foundation & its Programs

SwitchON Foundation (www.SwitchON.org.in) is a distinguished non-profit organization established in 2008, focusing on Sustainable Agriculture/Livelihoods, Renewable Energy Access, and Environment & Climate Change. We are renowned for building social enterprises and ecosystems that create scalable impact.

SwitchON Foundation is certified as a Great Place to Work, fostering diversity and inclusivity with a significant representation of women in leadership roles. Our team of 175+ operates across 10 states, influencing behavior and policy.

Position Summary: The Chief Program Officer (CPO) will be a strategic leader responsible for overseeing and driving the organization’s sustainable agriculture programs. The CPO will work closely with the executive team, program managers, and stakeholders to develop and implement strategies that advance our mission and ensure effective program delivery.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Leadership:

Develop and execute the strategic vision for sustainable agriculture programs in alignment with the organization's mission and goals.

Identify and prioritize key areas for program development, including climate-smart agriculture, soil health, water management, and sustainable livelihoods.

2.Program Management:

Oversee the design, implementation, and evaluation of sustainable agriculture programs and projects.

Ensure programs are delivered on time, within budget, and in accordance with the highest standards of quality and effectiveness.

Monitor program performance and impact, and make data-driven decisions to improve program outcomes.

3.Partnership and Stakeholder Engagement:

Build and maintain strong relationships with government agencies, agricultural experts, local communities, donors, and other stakeholders.

Represent the organization at conferences, forums, and meetings to advocate for sustainable agriculture and promote our work.

4.Fundraising and Resource Mobilization:

Collaborate with the development team to identify funding opportunities and prepare grant proposals.

Cultivate relationships with potential donors and partners to secure financial and in-kind support for sustainable agriculture initiatives.

5.Team Leadership and Development:

Lead, mentor, and support program managers and staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performance work environment.

Identify training needs and professional development opportunities to enhance team capacity and performance.

6.Policy and Advocacy:

Stay informed about relevant policies, regulations, and trends in sustainable agriculture.

Advocate for policy changes and best practices that support sustainable agriculture and rural development.

7.Reporting and Communication:

Prepare and present regular reports on program progress, impact, and financial performance to the executive team and board of directors.

Ensure effective communication of program results and success stories to internal and external audiences.

Qualifications, Experience & Skills:

Education: Master’s degree in Agriculture, Environmental Science, Rural Development, or a related field. Advanced degree or specialized training in sustainable agriculture is preferred.

Experience: Minimum of 15 years of experience in program management or leadership roles in sustainable agriculture or a related field, including experience in a senior management position.

Skills:

Strong understanding of sustainable agriculture practices, rural development, and related policies.

Proven ability to lead and manage large, complex programs and teams.

Excellent strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders.

Demonstrated experience in fundraising and resource mobilization.

Familiarity with monitoring and evaluation methodologies and tools.

Passionate about sustainable agriculture and rural development.

Strong commitment to the organization’s mission and values.

Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.

Adaptability and resilience in the face of challenges.

Reporting Structure

This position reports to the Executive Director in Kolkata, and will have 15-20 team members reporting to it.

Travel Requirements

Candidates must be willing to travel extensively within the Eastern, Western, and North Eastern regions of India, including Kolkata, as required.

Compensation

Annual CTC: Up to 15 Lakhs,

(The compensation package will be aligned with the candidate’s qualifications, experience, and previous salary history.)

Application Process

We are seeking enterprising professionals eager to join or lead initiatives at SwitchON Foundation to tackle the most pressing issues of today. To apply, please send your CV along with a cover letter, with the subject line “Chief Program Officer” to apply@switchon.org.in  

About Company

We are a leading organisation established in 2008 is committed to Climate Action by promoting Sustainable Agriculture, Clean Energy, Clean Air Advocacy and Sustainable Cities. Our dedicated team of 175+ members operate across 10 states of India.

All Jobs posted by: SwitchOn Foundation