Chief Agricultural Innovation Officer Job Vacancy in Garoua, Cameroon – Agriculture & Agribusiness

Job Description

Position: Chief Agricultural Innovation Officer

Company: Olam International

Location: Garoua, Cameroon

Experience: 10+ years in agricultural research and innovation management

Education: Master’s degree in Agronomy, Agricultural Science, or related field

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Agriculture & Agribusiness

Department: Research & Development

Salary: 3,000,000 – 5,000,000 SSP

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Olam International is a leading global agribusiness and food solutions provider with a strong presence across Africa, including Cameroon. The company focuses on sustainable sourcing, value‑added processing, and innovative agricultural practices that empower local farmers and contribute to food security. With a commitment to responsible growth, Olam invests heavily in research, technology, and community development, making it a top employer for professionals seeking impactful careers in agriculture. As part of its expansion strategy, Olam is establishing a state‑of‑the‑art innovation hub in Garoua, a region renowned for its fertile soils and strategic position in the Sahelian agricultural belt. This hub will serve as a catalyst for modern farming techniques, climate‑smart solutions, and market‑linkage initiatives that drive economic prosperity for Cameroon Jobs seekers.

Olam’s presence in Cameroon aligns with national goals for agricultural transformation, and the company actively collaborates with government agencies, NGOs, and research institutions. By joining Olam, you become part of a dynamic ecosystem that values diversity, sustainability, and continuous learning. The role offers a unique platform to shape the future of agriculture in Cameroon, while contributing to Olam’s global mission of feeding a growing world.

Job Overview

The Chief Agricultural Innovation Officer will lead Olam’s research and development agenda in Garoua, overseeing the design, implementation, and scaling of cutting‑edge agricultural solutions. This senior leadership position reports directly to the Regional Director of Operations and works closely with cross‑functional teams, including agronomy, supply chain, finance, and external partners. The officer will be responsible for translating scientific insights into practical, farmer‑centric technologies that improve yields, reduce environmental impact, and enhance profitability. The role is pivotal for Olam’s ambition to become the benchmark for agricultural innovation in Cameroon and the broader Central African region.

Key objectives include establishing a robust pipeline of innovative projects, securing funding and partnerships, and ensuring that all initiatives align with Olam’s sustainability standards and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The successful candidate will champion a culture of experimentation, data‑driven decision making, and inclusive stakeholder engagement, positioning Olam as the employer of choice for top talent seeking career opportunities in Cameroon.

For more information about Olam’s vision and the broader landscape of Jobs in Cameroon, visit Cameroon Job Search.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a five‑year agricultural innovation roadmap tailored to the Garoua region’s agro‑ecological conditions.
• Lead multidisciplinary project teams to design, pilot, and scale technologies such as precision farming, drought‑resilient seed varieties, and digital agronomy platforms.
• Forge strategic partnerships with universities, research institutes, NGOs, and government bodies to co‑create solutions and access funding.
• Oversee the budgeting, resource allocation, and performance monitoring of all R&D initiatives, ensuring alignment with corporate KPIs.
• Drive knowledge transfer to local farmer cooperatives through training programs, field demonstrations, and extension services.
• Ensure compliance with Olam’s sustainability framework, environmental regulations, and ethical standards.
• Represent Olam at industry conferences, trade fairs, and policy forums to showcase innovation outcomes and attract talent.

Required Skills

• Deep expertise in agronomy, crop science, or related disciplines, with a proven track record of delivering innovative agricultural solutions.
• Strong leadership and people management skills, capable of inspiring multidisciplinary teams.
• Excellent stakeholder management and negotiation abilities, especially with government agencies and international donors.
• Proficiency in data analytics, GIS tools, and digital agriculture platforms.
• Strategic thinking combined with hands‑on problem‑solving aptitude.
• Fluency in English and French, with strong communication skills for diverse audiences.

Education

A Master’s degree in Agronomy, Agricultural Science, Plant Breeding, or a closely related field is required. A Ph.D. or equivalent research experience is highly desirable.

Experience

Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in agricultural research, innovation management, or agribusiness development, preferably within Sub‑Saharan Africa.

Salary

The compensation package ranges from 3,000,000 to 5,000,000 SSP per annum, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The package includes performance‑based bonuses, health insurance, and a retirement savings plan.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health and dental coverage.
• Retirement savings scheme with employer contributions.
• Annual performance bonus tied to project outcomes.
• Relocation assistance for candidates moving to Garoua.
• Paid parental leave and flexible working arrangements.

Training

• Access to Olam’s global learning platform with courses on advanced agronomy, data science, and leadership.
• On‑the‑job mentorship from senior scientists and industry experts.
• Opportunities to attend international conferences and workshops.

Working Environment

The role is based in a modern office within Olam’s Garoua Innovation Center, featuring collaborative workspaces, laboratory facilities, and field trial sites. Employees enjoy a vibrant, inclusive culture that values diversity, sustainability, and continuous improvement. The position offers a blend of office‑based strategic work and field visits to farms and research stations across the region.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit an online application through the Olam Careers portal, attaching a detailed CV and a cover letter outlining their vision for agricultural innovation in Cameroon. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual interview followed by an on‑site assessment.

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, ethnicity, disability, or any other protected characteristic. We encourage applications from qualified candidates across Cameroon and the broader region, reinforcing our dedication to Employment in Cameroon and Career Opportunities in Cameroon.