Zechariah Biimi Naandam
Tamale
Summary
A seasoned development practitioner and Agribusiness expert with over 22 years of progressive work experience in a range of disciplines including agriculture development, climate action, conflict prevention and management, health, education, micro finance services, policy planning, child protection, advocacy, programme planning, monitoring, evaluation and learning, Behaviour Change Communication, reporting, and capacity building of team members and partners. An enthusiastic person who shares the values of honesty and accountability with dedication to work and strong analytical skills with the ability to apply development knowledge into programmes, review of documentation and implementation. Mr. Naandam has managed different projects, staff of different culture backgrounds, partnership, budgets and activity implementation of many projects and programmes funded by International non-government organizations such as UNICEF, CCFC, USAID, DFID, MCC, DAIKONIA, ICCO, CIDA, UNDP, AGRA, CORDAID. I have a vast range of experience in the production, processing and marketing of rice and other commodities value chains in Ghana. Currently I am the General Manager of GADCO Farm in Sogakope, South Tongu District of the Volta Region.
Professional managerial candidate with deep understanding of operational excellence and team leadership. Proven ability to drive growth and enhance productivity through strategic planning and effective resource management. Emphasizes collaboration and adaptability to meet organizational goals, showcasing excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
Professional leader with comprehensive experience in driving operational excellence and strategic growth. Proven track record of fostering team collaboration and achieving impactful results in dynamic environments. Skilled in navigating complex challenges, optimizing processes, and cultivating positive workplace cultures. Known for adaptability, effective communication, and strong decision-making abilities.
Customer-oriented General Manager with [Number] years of experience focused on increasing revenues and expanding margin. Adaptive and deadline-oriented consistently executes and completes multiple projects in high-stress environments. Meticulous leader and strategic planner with comprehensive managerial acumen, offering vision and motivational acumen.
Diligent [Desired Position] with solid background in managing daily operations and driving team performance. Successfully led various projects, ensuring seamless execution and improved operational efficiency. Demonstrated strategic planning and effective communication skills.
Experienced with strategic planning, team leadership, and operational excellence. Utilizes forward-thinking approach to drive business growth and streamline processes. Track record of fostering collaborative environments and achieving measurable results.
Serviced-focused General Manager dedicated to delivering positive customer experiences to promote loyalty and repeat business. Orchestrates optimal resource utilization to handle expected operational needs. Sales leader with sound judgment, good planning abilities and interpersonal communication strengths.
Strong leader and problem-solver dedicated to streamlining operations to decrease costs and promote organizational efficiency. Uses independent decision-making skills and sound judgment to positively impact company success.
Results-oriented achiever with proven ability to exceed targets and drive success in fast-paced environments. Combines strategic thinking with hands-on experience to deliver impactful solutions and enhance organizational performance.
Innovative technology professional with several years of diverse experience. Skilled in enhancing systems and aligning technical solutions with business objectives. Proven success in leading projects from start to finish and contributing to organizational growth and success.
Detail-oriented individual with exceptional communication and project management skills. Proven ability to handle multiple tasks effectively and efficiently in fast-paced environments. Recognized for taking proactive approach to identifying and addressing issues, with focus on optimizing processes and supporting team objectives.
Proactive and goal-oriented professional with excellent time management and problem-solving skills. Known for reliability and adaptability, with swift capacity to learn and apply new skills. Committed to leveraging these qualities to drive team success and contribute to organizational growth.
Organized and dependable candidate successful at managing multiple priorities with a positive attitude. Willingness to take on added responsibilities to meet team goals.
Equipped with strong problem-solving abilities, willingness to learn, and excellent communication skills. Poised to contribute to team success and achieve positive results. Ready to tackle new challenges and advance organizational objectives with dedication and enthusiasm.
Experienced leader with strong background in guiding teams, managing complex projects, and achieving strategic objectives. Excels in developing efficient processes, ensuring high standards, and aligning efforts with organizational goals. Known for collaborative approach and commitment to excellence.
Dynamic individual with hands-on experience in [Area of expertise] and talent for navigating challenges. Brings strong problem-solving skills and proactive approach to new tasks. Known for adaptability, creativity, and results-oriented mindset. Committed to making meaningful contributions and advancing organizational goals.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
Work History
General Manager
Global Agric Development Company Ltd (GADCO)
01.2023 - Current
- Develop business plans based on optimized productivity
- Plan and manage the supply of raw materials including agrochemicals, seeds, fertilizer, pesticides and other supplies are regularly restoked based on cycle
- Ensure maintenance schedules are followed for all machinery, tools and equipment
- Review and improve organizational effectiveness by developing processes, overseeing employee performance, establishing a highly motivational work environment, and implanting innovative changes
- Manage profit and loss and asset utilization of the Company
- Seek out and develop new business opportunities to optimize revenue streams
- Collaborate with the Chief Finance Officer to maintain the financial management reporting for the subsidiary including budgeting and forecasting, auditing, taxation and all other statutory financial reporting
- Develop, lead, and motivate Managers; sets goals in training and development, performance, and career planning
- Develop high-functioning teams
- Develop, manage, analyze and recommend changes to processes to achieve all necessary national certifications for compliance, operational, quality control, administration and progress of the business
- Ensure compliance with all statutory, legal, regulatory and local community requirements
- Build and maintain strong partnerships across industry
- Engage consultatively with all external stakeholders to improve company’s reputation and growth
- Manage business records, documents and archives efficiently
- Perform, on continuous basis, business analysis to develop cost reduction strategies, scrutinize projects and budgets to establish priorities, ensure healthy financial operations and establish controls to prevent profit and production leakages
- Plan, administer and control budgets for all units, contracts, equipment and supplies
- Perform additional duties as may be required from time to time
OPERATIONS MANAGER
DEGAS GHANA LTD-TAMALE
01.2021 - 12.2022
- Ensure smooth operations of all company activities are carried out in an appropriate and cost-effective ways
- To oversee and coordinate day to day activities to improve effectiveness, productivity and overall general performance
- Improves operational management systems, processes and best standard operating procedures
- Purchase operational materials, plan inventory and oversee warehouse efficiency
- Formulate strategic operational objectives, targets and milestones for the organization
- Analyze financial data and use the information to improve operational efficiency and improve
- Work with Research Institutions to introduce new technologies/innovations on GAPs and Climate SMART agriculture
- Uses Digital tools to profile farmers, collect data, monitoring Extension Officers activities and analyze field data for quarterly and annual progress report writing
- Facilitating, coaching/supporting Agriculture Extension Officers to establish demonstration farms/learning plots on GAPs and Climate Smart agricultural innovations
- Analyze financial data and use the information to improve operational efficiency and profitability
- Manage budget and financial forecasts for the operations team
- Perform quality controls and monitor production activities
- Recruit, train and supervise operations team
- Find ways to increase quality of customer services
- Prepare and sign contracts with service providers on key deliverables
SENIOR AGRICULTURE/LIVELIHOODS COORDINATOR
Global Communities USAID RING PROJECT
12.2018 - 12.2019
- Coordinated the activities and interventions of the agriculture and livelihoods component of the project
- With guidance of the Chief of Party, developed technical specifications/SOW to engage service providers/subcontractors in the implementation of RING agriculture/Livelihoods activities
- Coordinated with the University for Development Studies on the implementation of the orange fleshed sweet potatoes activities
- Supported in supervising the scaling up of the small-scale drip irrigation activity by the RING project
- Supported in providing technical guidance to Agriculture/Livelihoods officers on the planning, implementation and monitoring of agriculture/livelihoods activities
- Facilitated the process for cross-district learning by documenting and sharing of best practices across RING districts through workshops and during experience-sharing monitoring visits to districts
- Worked closely with Nutrition and WASH teams on the implementation of nutrition sensitive and WASH activities of the project
- Worked closely with M&E team to collect data on agriculture and livelihoods interventions for reporting
- Coordinated weekly reports from Agriculture & Livelihoods officers and report to Agriculture & Livelihoods Specialist
- Compiled quarterly and annual progress reports of the agriculture and livelihoods activities
- Supported and supervised the completion of tasks and subcontract activities by subcontractors, individual contractors and service providers
- Provided support to Agriculture/Livelihoods officers in the capacity building and monitoring efforts to relevant implementing departments of the District Assemblies
- Prepare technical and programmatic reports as required by management
- Supported the livelihoods team to facilitate periodic component activity review sessions and best practices meetings involving the district implementing departments
HEAD OF PROGRAMMES
AMPIO Ghana
01.2017 - 12.2018
- Focused on administering contracts and driving the implementation of Programmes activities, ensuring well-coordinated, timely delivery of high-quality programmes in line with approved work plans and funding agreements Grants
- Developed funding proposals for the program to ensure the continuous delivery of services
- Wrote proposals and supporting documents in response to proposal and grants applications solicitations
- Researched and identified donors, corporates, foundations, and private funding prospects
- Maintained and implemented funding calendar activities
- Ensured program strategy focused on continued improvements and innovations derived from internal program insights, third-party research and best practices among similar organization
- Served on the Senior Management team, participated in strategic planning and problem solving
- Developed and implemented strategies to align program direction with organization goals
- Oversaw execution of all program activities
- Developed pilot projects to test new approaches to increase efficiency and impact
- Liaised with Partners Managers to ensure the effective and efficient projects outputs delivery
- Liaised with other managers to ensure the effective and efficient program delivery
- Managed program management, and monitoring and evaluation personnel
- Coordinated with Country Director and other management team to ensure free flow of programs information
- Coordinated with Senior Accountant to develop an annual budget and operating plan to support the country programs
- Worked with cross-cultural staff in a growing organization
- Developed performance measurements across programme areas, to ensure consistent, high-quality evaluation and goal setting for all program employees
- Recruited, hired, and oversaw training and orientation of new program staff members
- Supported effective Staff Management and supportive work environment
- Collaborated with leadership team to develop and improve organizational human resource policies and tools
- Oversaw program budget and tracking individual project budgets
- Managed 4 different projects budgets and activities
- Managed relationships with senior staff of key program partners
- Oversaw relationship management of partnerships carried out by programme staff
- Managed successful relationships with the Government of Ghana, donor agencies, the business community and other stakeholders
- Managed successful relationships with Key Facilitating Partners; ensuring positive relationships are maintained and project targets are achieved
- Directed private sector experience in managing partnerships
- Managed relationship with Literacy Bridge-US/Amplio Director of Partnerships
- Guided development of a cohesive content strategy and related M&E material
- Oversaw M&E for the organization, including managing M&E staff person and programme management team in developing and operationalizing M&E strategy and systems
AGRICULTURE AND ENVIRONMENT PROJECT COORDINATOR
UNOPS-SADA- Millennium Villages Project
07.2012 - 12.2016
- Responsible for planning, budgeting, implementation and reporting on all activity areas of the project
- Supervised and supported all technical staff working both at the head office and field staff at the site level
- Functional experience in marketing, business planning, business growth advisory service or related areas
- Monitored and supervised 35 Agricultural Extension Agents (AEAs) under the project to implement field activities
- Provided strategic direction to support business advisors and the rest of the project team in implementing project activities
- Provided technical direction for the project with the aim of eliminating inefficiencies and wastage of project resources along key stages of project implementation cycle
- Provided oversight responsibility in resource mobilization (fund raising, recruitment of technical staff, procurement and engagement of consultants)
- Facilitated public, private partnership to provide strategic networks for institutional collaboration in the project ecosystems
- Organized and facilitated appropriate training programmes for community members, various committees and field staff
- Coordinated with the Team Leader to plan strategic communication messages and campaigns for behaviour change needed for success of key interventions in the agribusiness sector
- Organized training workshops/events for partner organization-MoFA and District Assembly staff
- Facilitated monitoring and evaluation of all planned activities
- Provided the necessary technical support to community-based committees so as to strengthen the overall performance of the project
- Developed appropriate follow up tools and organize follow ups on the same to ensure smooth progress of agricultural and environmental project activities
- Identified together with the community the relevant interventions for the community and facilitate their full participation and cooperation with government ministries and other stakeholders in the community
- Assisted FBOs in the development of business plans and implementation of the incentive voucher system
- Developed Value chain linkages with Farmer Based Organizations and Service Providers within the chain (Financial Institutions, Inputs dealers, Tractor operators, Marketing Companies etc.)
- Assisted FBOs and SMEs to access financial support from Banks and non-bank financial institutions
- Designed protocols to conduct on-farm demonstrations on best agronomic practices
- Provided technical direction and support to field officers to establish demonstration farms on best agronomic practices
- Documented all sector activity progress on regular basis
- Designed and implemented the lead farmer programme which ensured successful increased in crop yields
- Wrote and document human interest stories as results of programme interventions
M & E SPECIALIST
IFDC MiDA Programme
06.2008 - 07.2012
- Designed, implemented and managed the MiDA Program M&E System
- Oversaw and took responsibility for implementation of the Performance Measurement Framework (PMF)
- Developed and implemented the Performance indicators tracking system
- Established and managed the programme database using SQL Server Manager and Advance Microsoft Excel
- Worked as the lead consultant by providing timely and reliable information on program progress in meeting targets on the indicators to management and donors
- Developed program indicators for the measurement of results/ achievements
- Provided technical support (training) in the implementation of business capacity building of FBOs, Irrigation and Post-Harvest Components of the program activities
- Developed gender-sensitive data collection tools (quantitative and qualitative) for data collections by Technical Training Service Providers (TTSPs) and MoFA staff
- Undertook baseline data collection for the project and regular monitoring of indicators
- Undertook surveys to determine program achievements/results
- Monitored data collection activities at field and partner organization levels using tablets and smart phones
- Recruited, guided, and supervised data enumerators/consultants that are contracted to conduct surveys, baseline surveys etc
- For the project
- Provided training to data entry staff and enumerators to ensure that the staff follow the necessary data collection and entry protocols
- Undertook data audit to validate data on program activities to ensure data quality and integrity
- Reviewed monitoring reports, identify challenges and potential bottlenecks in implementation and feed learning back to project management
- Ensured that data entry staff are inputting accurate and timely data in the MIS and provide regular gender sensitive analysis at the output level to monitor implementation according to the work plan
- Represented IFDC to make presentation on the program activities and results
- Wrote quality progress reports based on program activities and indicators
- Prepared program documents necessary for evaluation purposes
- Wrote program success/case study stories on key performance beneficiaries for publication in the MiDA website
Tamale Rural Water supply and Sanitation Project Coordinator
Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG)-Northern Presbytery Development and Social Services
01.2006 - 12.2008
- Developed the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Project proposal
- Recruited and trained 120 Technicians on water and sanitation models
- Prepared TOR for contractors to engage in the provisions of Water and Sanitations facilities (Rain Water Harvesting Tanks and soak ways
- Monitored the construction of water and sanitation facilities
- Supervised the planting of trees as part of the agreement for the water and sanitation project
- Reviewed reports submitted by contractors
- Prepared Memos for payments to contractors upon successful completions of assigned tasks
- Made presentations on the project activities at workshops and conferences on behalf of PCG
- Wrote progress report on project activities to management donors
Micro Finance Programme Manager
Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG)-Northern Presbytery Development and Social Services
01.2005 - 12.2008
- Designed and implemented the PCG Micro Finance Programme in four targeted Districts in Northern Ghana
- Trained the Micro Finance Officers on Micro Finance principles and Business Development Services
- Designed both technical and financial performance indicators tracking forms for data collection on the MED Program activities
- Undertook periodic monitoring visits to beneficiary communities to validate field data on the program
- Held quarterly performance reviews with the Micro Finance Officers to assess progress based on the technical and financial indicators outlined in the project documents
- Compiled monthly and quarterly progress reports for management and donors
PROGRAMME OFFICER- MONITORING AND EVALUATION
Presbyterian Church of Ghana Farmers Training Programme
01.2004 - 06.2008
- Facilitated the designing and preparation of weekly, quarterly and annual operational plans using the SMART principle
- Established a monitoring and evaluation (M&E) systems for the generation of regularly updated information on program activities
- Managed and supported field Officers to implement project activities at the community level
- Designed data collections formats and develop databases and spreadsheets to ensure project data is readily available
- Provided technical advice on opportunities to improve program performance and measures to mitigate challenges that come our way
- Conducted Farmer Based Organization training on group formation, group sustainability, conflict prevention, enterprise selection, business plan development, and credit management
- Developed grants proposals for funding development projects
- Established partnerships and networking with key stakeholders within and outside the Programme operational areas
- Trained farmer groups in micro- finance (MED) and business development services
- Linked farmer groups to financial institutions and other service providers for assistance
- Supervised data collection personnel during data entry
- Trained farmers on market access and produce quality especially for cash crops
- Prepared monthly, quarterly and annual progress reports for management and donors
PROGRAMME OFFICER IN CHARGE OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD SECURITY
ASSOCIATION OF CHURCH DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS (ACDEP)
01.2001 - 12.2003
- Implemented development projects at the communities and member Projects levels
- Organized and facilitated workshops on Project Planning, Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting System, and Participatory Technology Development (PTD) Approaches for sustainable development
- Being a team player for conducting Farmer Field Schools (FFS) on appropriate crop husbandry practices in the rural communities
- Organized training workshops for community members on income generating activities (dry season gardening, grain banking, beekeeping, agro-processing, animal traction, soil fertility improvement and small ruminant production
- Represented the Secretariat at meetings and conferences on behalf of the Executive Director
- Prepared annual work plans with the Executive Secretary for implementation
- Prepared progress and annual reports as well as compile minutes of ACDEP General Meetings
- Established and maintained effective and functional network with relevant governmental and non-governmental organizations
Education
Commonwealth Executive Masters - Public Administration
Kwame Nkrumah University for Science and Technology (KNUST)
01.2016
MSc - Agricultural Economics
Imperial College, University of London
01.2006
BSc. (Hons.) - Agriculture Technology
University for Development Studies (UDS)
Tamale, Ghana01.2001
SSS Certificate -
Navrongo Secondary School
01.1995
Skills
- Microsoft Word
- Excel
- PowerPoint
- EPI-Info
- STATA
- SPSS
- Communication
- Presentation
- Team player
- Multitask oriented
- Results-oriented
- Ability to work with minimum supervision
- Knowledge sharing
- Performance improvement
- Risk mitigation
- Planning
- Organizing events
- Ability to work under pressure
- Leadership and team building
- Problem Resolution
- Operations Management
- Team Player
- Efficient multi-tasker
- Effective leader
- Relationship Building
- Training and Development
- Customer Relations
- Staff Training
- Staff training/development
- Inventory Control
- Customer Relationship Management
- Staff Supervision
- Employee Scheduling
- Verbal and written communication
- Administrative Skills
- P&L Management
- Staff Development
- Labor Cost Controls
- Process Improvements
- Deadline-oriented
- Strategic Planning
- Performance Improvement
- Time Management
- Training and coaching
- Team Leadership
- Staff Management
- Team training and development
- Schedule Management
Languagesproficiency
Very Good, Very Good, Very Good, Very Good, Very Good, Good, Good, Fair, Fair, Good, Fair, Fair, Good, Fair, Fair, Good, Fair, Fair
Skillsandcorecompetencies
- Competent in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint
- EPI-Info, STATA & SPSS.
- Excellent in Communication and presentation.
- Dynamic Team player.
- Multitask oriented.
- Strong commitment to achieving results.
- Ability to work with minimum or no supervision.
- Willingness to share knowledge and skills with others.
- Formulating strategies for performance improvement and risks mitigation.
- Technical expertise in planning and organizing events/workshops.
- Ability to work under pressure.
References
- Yunus Abdulai, Chief of Party, Global Communities USAID RING, Tamale, +233 243 519 762, yunusjonna@yahoo.co.uk
- David Sumbo, Team Leader, Sada Millennium Villages Project, P. O.BOX 209, BOLGATANGA, +233 244 894 018, +233 206 172 014, sumbojesining@yahoo.com, david.sumbo@millenniumpromise.org
- Dan Kolbilla, National Director of Development and Social Services, Presbyterian Church of Ghana, P. O. Box 294, Tamale, N/R, +233 244 765 079, +233 209 383 899
Capacitybuildingtrainings
- Conflict Prevention and management organized by Catholic Relief Services (CRS)
- Climate smart agricultural technologies and sustainable development approaches
- Sustainable Livelihoods Approach (SLA) to development.
- Theory of Change in Development Management practices.
- Trainer of Trainers Workshop on FBO formation and Development
- Trainers of Trainers workshop on Business Capacity Building for Commercial.
- Development of Farmer Based Organizations (FBOs) organized by CMC/MiDA.
- Community Mobilization and Animation Techniques.
- Participatory Project Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (PPM &E).
- Result Based Management to project design, implementation and monitoring.
- Fund raising and donor relations (proposal writing).
- Rights Based Approaches to community level advocacy.
- Micro Finance Integration and Product Development and Costing.
- Behaviour Change Communication (BCC).
- International Conference on donor/partners relationship and funding of development project in Cape Town, South Africa.
Timeline
General Manager
Global Agric Development Company Ltd (GADCO)
01.2023 - Current
OPERATIONS MANAGER
DEGAS GHANA LTD-TAMALE
01.2021 - 12.2022
SENIOR AGRICULTURE/LIVELIHOODS COORDINATOR
Global Communities USAID RING PROJECT
12.2018 - 12.2019
HEAD OF PROGRAMMES
AMPIO Ghana
01.2017 - 12.2018
AGRICULTURE AND ENVIRONMENT PROJECT COORDINATOR
UNOPS-SADA- Millennium Villages Project
07.2012 - 12.2016
M & E SPECIALIST
IFDC MiDA Programme
06.2008 - 07.2012
Tamale Rural Water supply and Sanitation Project Coordinator
Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG)-Northern Presbytery Development and Social Services
01.2006 - 12.2008
Micro Finance Programme Manager
Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG)-Northern Presbytery Development and Social Services
01.2005 - 12.2008
PROGRAMME OFFICER- MONITORING AND EVALUATION
Presbyterian Church of Ghana Farmers Training Programme
01.2004 - 06.2008
PROGRAMME OFFICER IN CHARGE OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD SECURITY
ASSOCIATION OF CHURCH DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS (ACDEP)
01.2001 - 12.2003
MSc - Agricultural Economics
Imperial College, University of London
BSc. (Hons.) - Agriculture Technology
University for Development Studies (UDS)
SSS Certificate -
Navrongo Secondary School
Commonwealth Executive Masters - Public Administration
Kwame Nkrumah University for Science and Technology (KNUST)
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