Extension Lead – Agronomy & Farmer Programs

About the role

The Agronomy & Extension Lead will own Malawi’s extension strategy, using human‑centred design and social‑behaviour change approaches to turn 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, working closely with Field Operations and Innovations.

Key responsibilities

• Co‑design and maintain a multi‑year agronomy and extension strategy aligned with impact priorities and farmer needs.
• Integrate extension priorities into Field Operations calendars, training cascades, tools and performance routines.
• Develop, test and refine agronomic recommendations using farmer feedback, impact data and human‑centred design.
• Translate technical recommendations into simple, memorable guidance and design mixed‑method extension interventions.
• Monitor adoption and impact, lead seasonal learning reviews and document lessons.
• Build and lead a high‑performing team, set goals, coach staff and ensure accountability.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy, Crop Science, Agricultural Extension, Sociology, Anthropology, Design or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in agricultural extension, human‑centred design, social‑behaviour change or rural marketing, preferably with smallholder farmers.
• Proven experience developing, testing or scaling agronomic recommendations or extension interventions.
• Strong technical judgment, data‑driven decision making and ability to work across multiple teams.

Required skills

• Advanced Excel
• R or Stata
• Human‑Centred Design
• Data analysis (qualitative and quantitative)

What we offer

• Health insurance, housing and comprehensive benefits.
• Weekly check‑ins, mentorship, training programs and regular performance feedback.
• Opportunities for career growth within a fast‑growing organization.