Job Description
Position: Sustainable Agriculture Project Manager
Company: Olam International
Location: Assab, Eritrea
Experience: Minimum 5 years in agricultural project management, preferably in East Africa
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Environmental Science or related field; Master’s degree is a plus
Employment Type: Full-time
Industry: Agriculture & Agribusiness
Department: Project Management
Salary: SSP 150,000 – 250,000 per month
Vacancies:1
Company Overview
Olam International is a global agribusiness operating in more than 60 countries. In Eritrea, Olam focuses on sustainable crop production, value‑added processing, and community development. The company’s mission is to responsibly source, transform and distribute agricultural commodities while creating lasting economic impact for local farmers. Olam’s Assab hub serves as a strategic coastal logistics centre, enabling efficient export of high‑quality produce to regional and international markets. The firm invests in climate‑smart agriculture, water stewardship, and capacity‑building programs that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, making it a premier employer for professionals seeking to drive meaningful change in Eritrea’s agricultural sector.
Job Overview
The Sustainable Agriculture Project Manager will lead Olam’s flagship initiative to increase the productivity and resilience of smallholder farms in the Southern Red Sea region. Reporting to the Regional Director, the role involves designing, implementing, and monitoring climate‑adapted farming practices, value‑chain enhancements, and farmer training programs. The successful candidate will collaborate with local cooperatives, government agencies, NGOs, and research institutions to ensure that project outcomes are measurable, scalable, and aligned with national agricultural policies. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of agriculture in Eritrea, contribute to food security, and advance your career within a globally recognized organization. For more information about the broader employment landscape in Eritrea, visit Eritrea Job Search.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute a comprehensive project plan that includes soil health improvement, irrigation efficiency, and crop diversification strategies.
- Coordinate with Olam’s supply‑chain team to ensure timely procurement of inputs and market access for harvested produce.
- Lead a multidisciplinary team of agronomists, extension officers, and data analysts to achieve project milestones.
- Monitor project performance using KPIs such as yield increase, water usage reduction, and farmer income growth, and prepare regular reports for senior management.
- Facilitate stakeholder engagement workshops, field demonstrations, and capacity‑building sessions for at least 200 smallholder farmers.
- Ensure compliance with local regulations, environmental standards, and Olam’s internal sustainability policies.
Required Skills
- Strong knowledge of sustainable agriculture practices, including conservation agriculture, drip irrigation, and integrated pest management.
- Proven project management expertise with certification (PMP, PRINCE2) preferred.
- Excellent analytical skills and proficiency in data‑driven decision making.
- Effective communication and negotiation abilities to work with diverse stakeholders.
- Fluency in English; knowledge of Arabic or Tigrinya is an advantage.
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Environmental Science, Rural Development or a related discipline is required. A Master’s degree or relevant professional certifications will be considered an asset.
Experience
Minimum five years of experience managing agricultural projects, preferably in East Africa or similar agro‑ecological zones. Experience with donor‑funded programs, climate‑smart initiatives, and smallholder farmer engagement is highly desirable.
Salary
The position offers a competitive salary range of SSP 150,000 to SSP 250,000 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Performance‑based bonuses and allowances for field travel are included.
Benefits
- Health insurance coverage for employee and dependents.
- Retirement savings plan.
- Annual leave of 30 days plus public holidays.
- Professional development budget and support for certifications.
Training
- On‑boarding program covering Olam’s sustainability framework and Eritrean agricultural policies.
- Access to Olam’s global learning platform for continuous skill enhancement.
Working Environment
The role is based in Assab’s modern Olam office, with regular field visits to farms and processing sites. Employees enjoy a collaborative culture that values innovation, diversity, and environmental stewardship. Flexible working arrangements are available, balancing office duties with field activities.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit an online application through Olam’s career portal, attaching a current resume and a cover letter outlining relevant project achievements. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual interview followed by an on‑site assessment in Assab.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Olam International is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, race, religion, or background. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.