Report of the Fifth External Programme and Management Review of CIMMYT

External program and management review of CIMMYT, covering the period from 1997 to March 2005, and led by a panel chaired by Don Marshall. The document contains a transmittal letter from the panel chair, and an executive summary. The appendices are catalogued as a separate record. During the period under review the Centre has seen marked change both internally and in its external environment. Internally, the Centre has been through a deep financial crisis, the development of a new mission and strategic plan which led to the implementation of a new research programme structure, and a radical shift in its staff profile as a result of staff downsizings and a staff renewal programme to better align its staff competencies with the new programme structure. It has also been engaged in lengthy discussions with a sister Centre, IRRI, about close alliance, possibly merger, and a decision on closer collaboration has been reached. The panel offers 23 recommendations, found in the executive summary. This report was discussed at the Business Meeting at AGM2005.