Team Leader on Agriculture under Economic Reform– Coalitions for Change (CfC) Program

Terms of Reference

Team Leader for Agriculture under Economic Reform for Coalitions for Change Program Phase 3

Coalitions for Change

Coalitions for Change (CfC) is a centerpiece program of the partnership between the Australian Embassy and The Asia Foundation in the Philippines. CfC strategically supports the development, introduction, adoption, and implementation of key policies consistent with the government’s agenda on economic growth, improved governance, and social development.

The program creates spaces for collaboration, strengthening coalitions and networks, civil society, private sector, the government, academia, and others to bring about transformative change. Working with these motivated groups and individuals, and armed with technical and political analysis, CfC ushers in reforms that lead to sustainable and inclusive development, improving the lives of Filipinos

Background of the Project

The agriculture sector remains the slowest-growing sector in the Philippines, facing numerous challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, low mechanization, and limited adoption of new technologies to enhance productivity. Several studies found that inadequate storage facilities, inefficient handling, and poor transportation contribute to substantial post-harvest losses, reaching up to 40% for fruits and vegetables, driving up food prices. Low productivity in agricultural products central to food security and productivity—has further escalated food costs, especially given the recent production declines.

Despite the potential of non-rice and non-corn crops to diversify incomes, reduce poverty, and enhance export performance, government policies and programs have disproportionately focused on staple crops. This focus has left other critical sectors underdeveloped, unable to attract the investments and innovation needed to unlock their full potential. Moreover, smallholder farmers, who form the backbone of Philippine agriculture, often lack access to affordable credit, robust market linkages, and effective extension services to improve their productivity.

Compounding these issues are weak institutional capacities and policy inertia that hinder efforts to implement reforms. The current regulatory framework fails to unlock the full potential of the agricultural sector. Many existing policies are misaligned with the dynamic needs of the sector, while fragmented governance structures create significant barriers to coordinated action. Addressing these problems requires a shift from traditional development approaches to one that is politically smart, context-specific, and adaptive.

This project seeks to engage a team leader aiming to address key constraints in the agricultural sector. The team lead will act as a catalyst for reform, driving transformative change in agricultural policies and practices that will empower farmers, attract investments, and elevate the sector’s contribution to the Philippine economy. This approach aligns with the principles of Coalitions for Change by emphasizing the importance of local leadership, iterative problem-solving, and collaboration in addressing complex development challenges.

Scope of Work of the Team Lead

1. Closely collaborate with ERD team, strategic advisor, and the reform team;
2. Discuss with different stakeholders to determine feasible schemes and reforms for improving productivity and increasing investments in agriculture (non-rice and corn);
3. Draft position papers and presentations in pursuing the reform agenda.
4. With the team, propose a technically sound and politically feasible reforms;
5. With the team, form a coalition of relevant stakeholders in pursuing said reforms;
6. Organize activities such as conferences, meetings, seminars and focus group discussions.

Qualification

1. Bachelor’s degree in relevant discipline (e.g Political Science, Public Administration, Development Studies, Economics, Agriculture, Agricultural Economics, Urban and Regional Planning, etc.), a master’s degree is an advantage but not required.
2. At least two (2) years professional experience in policy advocacy and research and development
3. Working knowledge of broader and recent development issues in the Philippines, including economic issues.
4. Working experience in adaptive management teams and development entrepreneurship is desirable.
5. Ability to network with local leaders in the Philippines
6. Effective written and verbal communication skills in both English and Filipino

The contractor will directly report to The Asia Foundation the Associate Advisor and will closely coordinate with the CfC Economic Reform team.