The World at Abt

Solving the world’s most pressing issues and improving the quality of life for people worldwide is what we do every day at Abt Associates. Creating a more equitable world is no small task, but we are driven by big challenges. We are a team of 4,000+ people in over 50 countries working in unison and focused on the bigger picture. Only by sharing our commitment and energy do we affect change and push the boundaries of what’s possible. We welcome diverse ideas, backgrounds, and viewpoints – joining Abt means access to exceptional thinkers at the top of their game. 

To thrive at Abt is to embrace flexibility and collaboration. Our open culture allows you to balance your work and personal life as needed to optimize personal well-being. Creating a more equitable world starts from within – we look after people around the world, and we’ll do the same for you.

Abt Bangladesh is part of Abt Global’s commitment to fostering sustainable development across South Asia. Our work in Bangladesh spans various sectors, focusing on food security, climate resilience, economic growth, and health systems strengthening. By leveraging our expertise in technical innovation, research, and project implementation, Abt Bangladesh has been instrumental in delivering impactful programs that address the country's pressing development needs.

Ready to embrace rewarding and meaningful work? Now’s your chance.

The Opportunity 

Abt Global seeks a dynamic and experienced Chief of Party (COP) to lead an anticipated $25-50M USAID Feed the Future Sylhet Agricultural Development Project. This position will be responsible for the overall management, strategic direction, and implementation of the project. The project focuses on improving agricultural productivity, promoting nutrition-sensitive value chains, enhancing market access, and fostering resilience to climate change in the Sylhet region.

The COP will serve as the primary point of contact with USAID, government officials, private sector partners, and key stakeholders. The successful candidate will ensure the project achieves its goals of sustainable agricultural growth, food security, and economic resilience.

The position will be based in Dhaka or Sylhet, Bangladesh and is contingent upon award to Abt Global.

 

Core Responsibilities 

Leadership & Strategic Direction:

Lead overall project planning, execution, and management to ensure achievement of project goals and objectives. Develop and implement strategies to foster inclusive, sustainable agricultural development, with a focus on enhancing value chains and improving food security in the Sylhet region. Ensure integration of project components and collaboration across stakeholders, including government, private sector, civil society, and academia.

 

Stakeholder Engagement:

Serve as the principal liaison with USAID, government officials, local institutions, and other key stakeholders. Build and maintain relationships with national and local government authorities, donor agencies, the private sector, and other development partners. Represent Abt Global and the project at high-level meetings, conferences, and forums to share knowledge and advocate for project objectives.

Technical Direction:

Oversee the development and implementation of innovative and evidence-based technical approaches to enhance agricultural productivity, climate resilience, and nutrition-sensitive value chains. Provide technical guidance on key project components, including market systems development, agricultural extension services, and nutrition interventions. Monitor project performance and oversee data collection, analysis, and reporting to ensure project objectives are met.

Program Management & Compliance:

Ensure all project activities are in compliance with USAID rules, regulations, and Abt Global policies and procedures. Oversee project budgets, financial management, and reporting, ensuring timely submission of deliverables and financial reports. Identify and manage potential risks and propose adjustments to ensure project targets are achieved within budget and timelines.

Team Management & Development:

Lead a diverse team of technical, financial, and operational staff, ensuring effective coordination and teamwork. Provide supervision, support, and mentorship to project staff to enhance their professional development and performance. Foster a culture of learning, adapting, and collaboration, incorporating USAID’s CLA (Collaborating, Learning, and Adapting) principles.

What We Value

Master’s degree or higher is preferred. Bachelor’s degree in agricultural sciences, international development, or a related field is required. A minimum of 12 years of progressively responsible experience managing complex, multi-stakeholder agricultural development programs, with at least 5 years of experience as a Chief of Party or equivalent in USAID-funded projects. Proven experience in agricultural value chains, climate-resilient agriculture, and market systems development, preferably within Feed the Future initiatives. Demonstrated experience in engaging with government officials, private sector actors, and civil society to advance project goals. Familiarity with USAID compliance regulations, financial management, and reporting requirements. Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to guide and mentor staff from diverse backgrounds. Expertise in monitoring, evaluation, learning, and adapting, particularly in agricultural and nutrition-sensitive programs. Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills. Proven ability to work in complex environments and manage multiple priorities simultaneously. Fluency in English is required; proficiency in Bangla is preferred. Experience working in Bangladesh or South Asia. Deep understanding of the agricultural, social, and economic context of the Sylhet region Qualified Bangladeshi nationals and international applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.

 

What We Offer

We foster an environment where you can Thrive Your Way. Our innovative total rewards programs are designed to help balance your work and personal life. The approach toward your wellbeing centers around comprehensive benefits and professional development.

Abt Global is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse workforce. Abt provides market-competitive salaries and comprehensive employee benefits. Local candidates are preferred.

Disclaimer: Abt Global will never ask candidates for money in exchange for an offer of employment.

#LI-AM1