Deputy Director, Agriculture, China Country Office

TL;DR

Deputy Director, Agriculture, China Country Office: Lead strategy development and execution for the foundation’s agriculture portfolio including crops, livestock and aquaculture in China with an accent on policy analysis, partnerships, and investments. Focus on leveraging China’s expertise to advance sustainable agricultural transformation in Africa and LMICs.

Location: Hybrid work arrangement from Beijing office. Must be able to legally work in China without visa sponsorship.

Company

Largest nonprofit fighting poverty, disease, and inequity globally, supporting Chinese partners in health, agriculture, and development innovations for LMICs.

What you’ll do

• Lead development of agriculture strategy in China aligned with global priorities.
• Analyze macro and policy environment, identify advocacy needs and pathways.
• Manage investment plans, budgets, grants, and contracts with strategic oversight.
• Engage government agencies like Ministry of Agriculture on joint opportunities.
• Build and manage partnerships with grantees, research institutes, and NGOs.
• Mentor teams, provide briefings to leadership, and manage risks at portfolio level.

Requirements

• Advanced degree in agriculture or related field.
• 10+ years senior experience leading large-scale agricultural programs with R&D expertise.
• Proficiency in English and Chinese (written and spoken).
• Deep knowledge of China’s agriculture policy, innovation ecosystem, and government partners.
• Experience in strategy, grantmaking, partnerships, biotech, and ideally AI exposure.
• Strong leadership, cross-cultural communication, and matrixed team management skills.
• Willingness to travel up to 30% domestically and internationally.

Nice to have

• MBA or top-tier management consulting experience.
• Knowledge of international development policy, especially in Africa.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision coverage with no premiums.
• Generous paid time off, paid family leave, foundation-paid retirement.
• Regional holidays and employee communities.
• Hybrid work from Beijing office.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and global impact.

Hiring process

• Standard process with background check.
• Accommodations available for disabilities.
• Application deadline: 3 June 2026.