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Project Manager

  • Company

    Institute of Livelihood Research and Training (ILRT)

  • Location

    Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh

  • Employment Type

    Full-Time

  • Functional Category

    Programme Management & Implementation

  • Experience

    8 - 10 years

  • Date Posted

    16-Nov-2025

About Institute of Livelihood Research and Training (ILRT)

ILRT is a practice-based institution promoted by Basix Social Enterprise Group (BSEG). We have been mandated to build, develop and disseminate scientific knowledge on livelihoods that help strengthen and diversify livelihood portfolio of the socially and economically marginalised sections of the community. With a global presence, we work in ‘Pockets of Poverty’ in India and other developing countries on issues related to livelihood strengthening, diversification and promotion. We focus on enabling government agencies, corporate, NGOs and other like-minded organisations on livelihood promotion and strengthening. While our engagement with grassroots entrepreneurs, farmers and other stakeholders help us understand the issues better, we also engage with activities that positively influence the approaches and strategies at the policy level. Our mission is to “create an enabling environment for promoting dignified livelihoods for all and become a leading praxis institution in the field of livelihood promotion.” This, we have been pursuing through conducting applied research and sub – sector studies, training, designing curriculums, livelihood mapping and action planning, organising writeshops, conducting studies on value chain, skill mapping, labour market, informal sector. The Institute also has significant expertise and experience in livelihood resource mapping, providing accompaniment support and guidance.

Overview of the Role

ILRT is seeking a dynamic and experienced Project Manager to lead the FPO Business Development Project Operations across four locations. The incumbent will be responsible for overseeing and coordinating project activities aimed at enhancing growth, sustainability, and impact of 30 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). The ideal candidate will bring strong leadership, business development acumen, and field management expertise to drive results and strengthen the FPO ecosystem.

Job Description

This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the role and is not exhaustive. Other responsibilities may be assigned as needed to support the overall objectives of the Project.
• Develop and execute project plans aligned with FPO scale-up objectives.
• Strengthen FPO governance, systems, and market linkages.
• Lead and mentor District Managers and field teams.
• Ensure smooth operations and resolve on-ground/stakeholder issues.
• Manage project budgets and ensure donor compliance.
• Facilitate financial linkages with banks, schemes, and CSR partners.
• Support FPOs in preparing business plans and bankable proposals.
• Drive value chain development and sustainable market linkages.
• Promote innovative, market-driven business models.
• Monitor project performance and ensure data accuracy on MIS/SoulAce.
• Prepare MPRs, progress reports, and presentations for management.
• Present monthly updates and key achievements to senior leadership.

Required & Preferred Qualifications

Skill

• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving ability in a fast-paced, field-oriented environment.
• Commitment to community development, farmer empowerment, and sustainability principles.
• Strong documentation, analytical, and presentation skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office tools and digital platforms for monitoring and reporting.

Education

Postgraduate degree in Agriculture, Rural Management, Agribusiness, Development Studies, or a related field from a recognized institution.

Experience

• Minimum 8–10 years of progressive experience in project management, agribusiness development, or rural livelihoods, with at least 3–5 years in a leadership or managerial role. • Proven experience working with Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), producer collectives, or value chain development initiatives. • Demonstrated ability to manage multi-location projects and coordinate with diverse stakeholders including government agencies, financial institutions, and market partners. • Strong understanding of FPO governance, compliance, and business operations. • Experience in financial planning, budgeting, and resource mobilization for development projects. • Proficiency in MIS management, data analysis, and report preparation. • Familiarity with value chain development, market linkage facilitation, and agribusiness promotion models.