Head of Programs

Provide technical oversight and strategic direction, and manage program activities at the Secretariat in collaboration with Program Directors across the various countries

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and provide oversight in the execution of department strategy in line with the overall organizational strategic plan.

• Oversee the conduct and implementation of on-site epidemiologic investigations and/or studies of public health concern;

• Provide technical advice and assistance to the Ministry of Health (MOH) and counterparts in all aspects of the implementation of the integrated disease surveillance and response (IDSR) system for infectious and non-infectious diseases;

• Provide oversight in the implementation of an M&E framework for the FETPs and all projects.

• Network and collaborate with Ministries of Health and other partners to discuss priority public health activities in Africa and design implementation plans;

• Formulate evidence-based policies in liaison with Ministry of Health or other partners;

• Lead the development of strategies and methods to improve the quality of data collected and the dissemination of information;

• Coordinate reporting for all programs and projects within the Programs Department according to the set timelines and standards;

• Oversee the programs training function within AFENET and at the central, state and country level;

• Determine staffing requirements and recruitment of programs staff;

• Manage and monitor the performance management of staff in the programs department;

• Coordinate the programs proposal development process working closely with ministries of health and other partners;

• Oversee the design and implementation of databases for health programs;

• Oversee the design and management of surveillance systems for diseases of public health importance;

• Oversee quality improvement activities for all levels of FETP training across various countries.

Qualifications, Skills and Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Dentistry, Veterinary Medicine, Laboratory Sciences, or Environmental Health Science

• And;

• Master’s Degree in Public Health/Epidemiology

• Professional Qualifications / Membership in Professional Bodies

• The candidate must be a member of one or more of the following professional organizations:

• International Epidemiological Association (IEA)

• Society for Epidemiological Research (SER)

• Epidemiology and Biostatistics Professional (EBP)

• Any other recognized national professional body

• Work Experience:

• Ten (10) years of working experience in public health or a related field, five (5) years of which are at managerial level

Remuneration and Benefits: A competitive remuneration and benefits will be offered to the successful candidate

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit their application letters and Curriculum Vitae detailing their academic qualifications, experience and skills and attach copies of relevant academic and professional certificates together with three references to:

The Human Resource Office, African Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET).