Extension Lead – Agronomy & Extension

About the role

The Agronomy & Extension Lead will own the implementation of Malawi’s extension strategy, using Human‑Centred Design and social behaviour change approaches to translate agronomic recommendations into practical, adoptable support for smallholder farmers. The role bridges technical agronomy leadership with the design and management of a farmer‑centered extension system.

Key responsibilities

• Own Malawi's agronomy and extension strategy, co‑designing a multi‑year plan aligned with impact priorities.
• Embed extension priorities into Field Operations calendars, training cascades and performance routines.
• Strengthen technical capability of field staff through training‑of‑trainers, coaching and support channels.
• Develop, test and refine agronomic recommendations using Human‑Centred Design, farmer feedback and impact data.
• Design farmer‑centered extension and behavior‑change interventions across group training, demonstrations, coaching and digital channels.
• Monitor adoption and impact, analyse results and lead seasonal learning reviews.
• Build and manage a high‑performing team, set goals and coach direct reports.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy, Crop Science, Agricultural Extension, Sociology, Anthropology, Design or related field.
• 5+ years experience in agricultural extension, Human‑Centred Design, social behaviour change or rural marketing.
• Proven experience developing, testing or scaling agronomic recommendations or extension interventions.
• Strong data‑driven decision making with advanced Excel skills; R or Stata a plus.
• Excellent communication, collaboration and people‑leadership abilities.

Required skills

• Advanced Excel
• R (or Stata)
• Human‑Centred Design methodology

What we offer

• Health insurance, housing and comprehensive benefits.
• Weekly check‑ins, mentorship, training programs and six‑monthly career reviews.