Jobs in Africa

Senior Technical Advisor for Health Systems and Health Care Financing

admin — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 23:58:18 +0000

Global Health Fellows Program

Technical Advisor III: Senior Technical Advisor for Health Systems and Health Care Financing

USAID/Democratic Republic of Congo

Assignment: Two year fellowship

GHFP-09-136

The Global Health Fellows Program (GHFP) is a five year cooperative agreement implemented and managed by the Public Health Institute (PHI) in partnership with the Harvard School of Public Health, Management Systems International and Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine. GHFP is supported by the US Agency for International Development (USAID).

The goal of GHFP is to improve the effectiveness of USAID Population, Health and Nutrition programs by developing and increasing capacity of health professionals in Washington, DC and overseas. This is accomplished through the recruitment, placement and support of junior, mid and senior level health professionals; a diversity initiative focused on providing internship and mentoring opportunities in international public health to underrepresented communities; and professional and organizational development activities to bolster USAID’s ability to maximize results and strengthen its leadership role in global health.

INTRODUCTION

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) ranks among the bottom ten countries in the world on a range of basic social and quality of life indicators, with an estimated 80% of the population living below the poverty line. The country’s long decline from relative prosperity and ability to provide for the basic needs of its population shifted to complete free-fall during the decade of conflict. A once robust primary health care system now lacks resources, personnel, and equipment, and supply chain breakdowns are widespread – particularly in remote areas – leaving the majority of the country with limited or no access to health services. High population growth – projections point to a tripling of the DRC’s population by the year 2050 from the current estimate of 61 million to nearly 180 million – impedes economic growth, and threatens to undo future gains in the social services sector.

Malaria, diarrhea, acute respiratory, and measles contributes to the very high of child and infant mortality rates. Chronic malnutrition has been a major problem of the under-fives and interacts synergistically with the high disease burden to seriously compromise the health of young children. Malnutrition and anemia both affect birth outcomes and seriously jeopardize the mother and baby’s health. There has also been high incidents rate of TB patient co-infected with HIV in addition to frequent epidemic outbreaks of infectious diseases such as measles, pertussis, cholera, hemorrhagic fever, meningitis and typhoid. UNAIDS estimated and projected that 1.2 million Congolese are infected with HIV, over 42,000 mother-to-child infection. Against this background of pressing social needs, the new Government of DRC (GDRC) will be challenged to demonstrate tangible progress in rebuilding basic health services.

For more detail on DRC’s epidemiological context and health indicators, click here.

The USAID/DRC Health Office is seeking a Senior Advisor for Health Systems and Health Care Financing (Senior Advisor) responsible for advising the health team and managing a broad range of planning, monitoring, coordination, capacity building, and implementation tasks related to health care financing reform and USAID/DRC’s systems strengthening projects. Strong understanding of and experience working in the area of health care financing and health systems strengthening is critical.

The Senior Advisor will advise the health office team and explore various strategies which may include identifying key health policies needed at national and provincial levels and opportunities for health care financing; pay for performance; cost recovery schemes; public health insurance and improving the allocation and management of health sector resources. Based upon strategies identified, the Senior Advisor will also design and oversee the follow-up of a demonstration activity in selected pilot sites, emphasizing the development of financing mechanisms, global budgeting, health insurance plans, analysis and costing of benefits, performance based contracting, utilization of services, reimbursement, and quality monitoring. The Senior Advisor will receive day-to-day guidance from the Health Team Leader and work with the health team, the US Government (USG) President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) team, program partners, relevant Ministry personnel (Health, Finance, Social Affairs) at national and provincial levels, donor partners and other stakeholders.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Senior Advisor will work in close collaboration with the health team to provide strategic inputs in health systems strengthening and financing, assuring responsiveness and quality, resolving problems, and ensuring that project work produces the required output results. S/he will:

Serve as the senior advisor for the USAID DRC health team on health care financing and systems strengthening issues, policies and programs in partnerships with private voluntary organizations, nongovernmental organizations, bilateral and multilateral donors, other USG institutions, think tanks, Congressional staff, and others
Provide technical leadership, policy and program guidance to the DRC health team and Mission
In collaboration with the health team and appropriate stakeholders, develop scopes of work and work plans that clearly identify short- and long-range achievable, sustainable strategies for improving financial systems in the Congolese health sector
Keep informed of and collaborate with other international donors and development agencies
Contribute to the development of research agendas and special projects for improving health systems
Establish and maintain excellent working relationships with health financing counterparts in the relevant Ministries at the Central, Provincial and Local Government levels
Develop program and policy options and recommend appropriate courses of action based on a comprehensive analysis of development problems, alternative actions, objectives and consistency with overall US domestic and international policy and law
Provide programmatic backstopping and management of high visibility projects, consulting with professionals in various sectors
Initiate and/or coordinate project evaluations to ascertain project success and cost effectiveness, including implications for future financing
Attend international meetings, seminars and conferences in his/her areas of expertise
Work in close collaboration with the Health Team Leader and staff of the health team, other donors, stakeholders and implementing partners to provide technical support for the following project activities:
- Building financing and administration capacity of government partners at identified national, provincial and local levels
- Identifying and developing potential health care financing and systems strengthening approaches and strategies
- Managing program implementation
- Building capacity at national provincial and local levels to implement and sustain financing reforms; resource management; monitoring and oversight
- Managing the implementation of a National Health Accounts project
Manage related financial, team-building, reporting, communication, and program documentation processes to ensure project support services in health care financing and systems strengthening are fully responsive
Maintain knowledge of current literature and research to advise USAID in its legislative mandate to facilitate and coordinate USG activities regarding health care financing and systems strengthening
Plan and coordinate appropriate workshops for training and building capacity of counterparts on their roles and responsibilities in the area of financing reform
Identify technical assistance expertise required for field activities, prepare scopes of work, provide operational support, and review reports for quality
Participate in the development of work plans, technical reports, training materials, and other project products
Draft annual implementation plans, develop scopes of work, manage health financing budgets
Monitor programs’ progress in implementing tasks in accordance with implementation plans and other agreements
Perform any related duties as required

REQUIRED SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE:

Master’s degree or a PhD in economics, public health, public policy, business, or related field
Minimum 10 years’ relevant professional experience (includes health economics, health financing, decentralization, research, survey design, evaluation, reform design and implementation, and community-based health insurance), with at least three to five years’ experience in a international or resource poor setting
Experience with international donor organizations
Superior writing, research, and presentation skills
Ability to convey highly technical material in a clear manner to a non-technical audience
Strong quantitative and qualitative research skills
Able to produce results within tight deadlines
General professional proficiency to speak and read French required
Ability to obtain medical clearance to live and work in DRC
US Citizenship or Permanent Residency required

SALARY AND BENEFITS:

Salary will be based on commensurate experience and earnings history. The Public Health Institute offers a comprehensive benefits package including professional development programs.

All online applications must be submitted by June 5, 2009.

We are proud to be an affirmative action employer.

Global Health Fellows Program: Technical Advisor Needed in DR Congo

admin — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 23:54:31 +0000

Global Health Fellows Program

Technical Advisor III: Global Fund Liaison

USAID/Democratic Republic of Congo

Assignment: Two year fellowship

GHFP-09-137

BACKGROUND

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is ranked among the bottom ten countries in the world on a range of basic social and quality of life indicators, with an estimated 80% of the population living below the poverty line. A once-robust primary health care system now lacks resources, personnel, and equipment; supply chain breakdowns are widespread, particularly in remote areas, leaving a majority of the country with limited or no access to health care services.

The National Malaria Control Program reports that malaria accounts for 25% to 30% of under-five mortality contributing to approximately 75,000 to 100,000 deaths a year. DRC ranks tenth globally in contributing to the world’s tuberculosis (TB) burden and has an estimated incidence rate of 392 cases per 100,000 people. HIV/TB co-infection rates are estimated at 21% and multi-drug resistant TB cases represent 1.7% of the TB infected population. The 2007 DHS estimates that HIV prevalence in the general population of DRC is 1.3% with higher rates in urban areas (1.9%) and among women (1.6%), although current trends are showing increasing prevalence rates in rural settings. UNAIDS estimates suggest 1.2 million Congolese are infected with HIV and over 42,000 vertical mother-to-child infections will occur in2008. Access to treatment remains a significant challenge, and the National AIDS Program (PNLS) has reported that 19,483 people were receiving antiretroviral treatment as of June 2008, but about 92,726 people were waiting to access treatment.

In the March 2008 DRC Public Expenditure Review, the DRC country budget was reported as $2.460B of which 4.1% ($101M) is allocated for health. To date, however, the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (GDRC) has never been able to spend more than 57% of their health budget. The economic picture for DRC continues to worsen as the global economic downturn is directly impacting commodities prices such as copper and diamonds. Staggering numbers of miners are losing their jobs; the war in the Northeast continues to consume scarce resources; and the global economic crisis is forcing donors to reprioritize resources. For example Global Fund (GF) awards were cut by 10% for Round 8.

President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR)

PEPFAR, initially a five-year, $15B program, was recently reauthorized for an additional 5 years. PEPFAR focuses on 15 countries in Africa, the Caribbean and Asia that represent approximately half the world’s HIV infections. The goal of PEPFAR phase two is to treat 3 million HIV-infected individuals, prevent 12 million new infections and to provide care and support for 12 million HIV-infected individuals and orphans. In DRC, PEPFAR is implemented by the US Department of State (DOS), the US Agency for International Development (USAID), the Department of Health and Human Services (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - CDC), and the Department of Defense (DOD).

This year DRC became a PEPFAR Compact country with a budget of $30 million. The US Government (USG) is now the largest HIV/AIDS bilateral donor in DRC. The success of the PEPFAR program and the ultimate management and control of HIV/AIDS in DRC is linked to the successful implementation of the GF program. GF is the largest multi-lateral donor in HIV/AIDS and provides the bulk of TB, HIV and malaria drugs. The GF Liaison will play a critical role in ensuring that the overall program management and support is functional.

Global Fund

The Global Fund (GF) has approved over $925M in grants funding in the areas of HIV, TB and Malaria of which over $163M has been disbursed. Recently, Round 8 funding for Malaria and HIV/AIDS was approved, providing the DRC with one-sixth of the resources available globally for Round 8. Successful implementation of this funding is critical to provide the Congolese people with much needed drugs and services as well as permit the GDRC to demonstrate its ability to successfully manage and implement donor funding. To date, implementation of the GF grants has been challenged by years of government mismanagement, armed conflict, minimal capital investment, and limited infrastructure. All these factors have had significant impact on local capacity which is insufficient in contracting, grants management and commodity procurement.

Phase 2 contracts of the Round 3 award have been finalized and disbursement of funds has recently begun. The Ministry of Health has been identified as the PR for the Round 8 HIV and Malaria awards; technical assistance to build capacity to ensure timely disbursement, effective program management and monitoring will be critical to programmatic success. Additionally, having a dedicated GF Liaison will ensure continuity of and follow up to technical assistance provided.

Currently, the GDRC lacks the personnel and capacity to ensure optimal implementation of the GF program which provides crucial support to a severely challenged health care system which is under-funded, under-resourced, and incapable of meeting the needs of the Congolese people. Coordination and communication amongst the GDRC, donors, civil society, the CCM, the Global Fund Secretariat and implementing partners has been weak and fragmented. It is anticipated that by having a technically experienced and dedicated GF Liaison to work with these partners and stakeholders coordination and communication; opportunities to leverage collaboration; identification of technical assistance needs and the provision of appropriate responses will be facilitated and strengthened.

INTRODUCTION

The DRC Global Fund Liaison (Liaison) will be the USG focal point on Global Fund activities, working under the direction of the USAID DRC Mission Director, who is the Second Vice-Chair of the Global Fund Country Coordinating Mechanism (CCM). The successful candidate will assume responsibility for coordinating ongoing and critical communications among the USG PEPFAR Country Team comprised of Agency and Department Heads from USAID, CDC, DOD, DOS, etc.; the CCM; the Global Fund Secretariat; the GDRC; and other strategic partners regarding the management and implementation of the Global Fund program. The Liaison is expected to have a strong technical background in at least two of the three Global Fund focal areas in order to be able to identify technical assistance needs, make the necessary recommendations to address those needs and ensure follow-up on implementation of the technical recommendations.

The Liaison’s principal responsibilities include:

Working closely with government, donors and private and civil society counterparts to ensure effective and timely implementation of programs contributing to improved results
Identifying opportunities to leverage resources and/or strengthen collaboration to enhance and maximize GF program results
Ensuring, regularizing and strengthening communication between the USG, CCM, GF Secretariat, Principal Recipients (PRs), other donors and implementing partners
Strengthening the capacity of the CCM, GDRC, and PR to coordinate, manage and implement programs by identifying technical assistance needs and accessing the appropriate support
Ensuring that the GF resources are effectively used to facilitate, support and when possible leverage PEPFAR investments ensuring success and maximum impact
Coordinating and liaising with:
- The PEPFAR Coordinator and representatives of the DRC PEPFAR country team and the Compact Country support team to ensure critical communication between and among agencies on the GF grants management and program implementation
- key partners in Malaria management including the Presidents’ Malaria Initiative (PMI) and Roll Back Malaria
- key partners in TB management including TB CAP
- interested/affected units at the Embassy to ensure that the Chief of Mission (COM)/DCM, Agency heads and others are well apprised of key GF accomplishments, challenges, and timelines
- host Government ministries/offices and other donors supporting HIV/AIDS, TB and Malaria programs to promote collaboration with USG agencies and their partners
Collaborating with participating USG agencies and the PEPFAR Coordinator, prepare communication materials by the following illustrative examples:
- prepare speeches for delivery by the COM/DCM and agency leads, and requested background materials for public as well as sensitive diplomatic events
- prepare written materials in collaboration with the Public Affairs Office and relevant USG agency communications offices, including press releases and Op-Ed materials for local and international media
- support Congressional visits, high level PEPFAR and PMI visits and visits by international dignitaries
Facilitating the development and implementation of a comprehensive and coordinated GF program, which is coordinated with the goals and objectives of the GF, PEPFAR, PMI, the USG Mission Strategic Plan, the USAID Country Assistance Strategy, the CDC country strategy, and the GDRC National Health Strategy

The Liaison’s specific duties will include:

Maintaining ongoing communication with CCM representatives, the GF Secretariat, the GF Portfolio Management and other donors and stakeholders ensuring that the USG and partners are always well-informed and remain updated on status of GF activities
Ensuring ongoing coordination and management of GF activities
Creating opportunities to work side by side with government and other counterparts including civil society to build capacity at all levels
Participate in site visits, ensuring quality implementation of activities and identification of program challenges
Rapidly identifying potential bottlenecks or problems and suggesting possible solutions
Supporting proposal development and transparency at all levels
Communicating regularly with USG point people in the US and in-country including: the HIV, TB, malaria and US-based GF focal points, the GF Portfolio Manager and other stakeholders
Providing or assisting with training of relevant USG staff regarding GF processes and policies
Serving as secretariat for USG on meetings related to GF; Organize, disseminate and retain records of regular communications with the CCM, GF Secretariat and related participating agency staff
Working with the Public Affairs Officer/Public Diplomacy Office and technical staff to prepare and disseminate periodic internal and external updates/status reports on Global Fund in DRC
Supporting efforts by USG implementing agencies to recruit, qualify, and successfully engage new, especially indigenous, partners in Global Fund activities

REQUIRED SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE:

Master’s degree in public policy, public heath, administration or related disciplines
Minimum ten years’ progressively responsible experience in developing, implementing and managing complex international TB, Malaria, HIV/AIDS and/or public health programs and services required, with at least 3-5 years’ experience in International/ resource poor setting
Knowledge of and experience with USG supported HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria programs in developing countries providing integrated prevention, treatment and care interventions as well as project management and coordination experience in developing countries highly desirable.
Experience working on HIV/AIDS issues in Africa preferred, along with a good understanding of African social, cultural, and political contexts
Ability to initiate, establish and maintain relationships with the major multilateral and bilateral stakeholders to facilitate communication and collaboration
Demonstrated ability to understand complex financial and program management
Familiarity with USG administrative, management, and reporting procedures and systems
Skilled in negotiation and facilitation
Strong communication skills with the ability to adapt content and presentation to various recipients’ needs
High level of maturity with proven leadership skills
Highly developed interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively within team and interagency environments
Demonstrated ability to mediate and facilitate consensus decisions on complex and time sensitive technical, programmatic, strategic, and financial issues
Superb organizational skills, with the ability to keep track of a large amount of data, manage complex interagency planning and reporting processes and the capacity to organize and present complex information clearly and concisely
Ability to interpret regulatory directives and related guidance
Fluent French and English
Demonstrated ability to develop and coordinate implementation of detailed work plans/timelines for major time sensitive and complex work projects that are dependent on contributions from multiple US government agencies and dozens of individuals
Ability to obtain a medical clearance to work in DRC
US Citizenship or Permanent Residency required

SALARY AND BENEFITS:

Salary will be based on commensurate experience and earnings history. The Public Health Institute offers a comprehensive benefits package including professional development programs.

All online applications must be submitted by June 1, 2009.

We are proud to be an affirmative action employer

HIV/AIDS Epidemiologist in South Africa

admin — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 23:50:30 +0000

Global Health Fellows Program

Technical Advisor Level III: HIV/AIDS Epidemiologist

USAID/South Africa

Assignment: 2 year fellowship

GHFP-09-138

INTRODUCTION:

The USAID/Southern Africa Regional HIV/AIDS Program (RHAP) provides technical and management support to the ten highest-HIV prevalence countries in the Southern Africa region which includes both focus and non-focus countries under the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), and both USAID bilateral Missions and USAID programs in non-presence countries.

The region served by RHAP is at the epicenter of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and remains by far the region worst affected by HIV/AIDS in the world. With less than 2% of the world’s population, the 10 Southern African countries account for 30% of HIV-positive individuals, 27% of children orphaned by AIDS, and 32% of AIDS deaths. The impact of HIV in the region is also compounded by a rampant tuberculosis epidemic. While PEPFAR has achieved significant success in treatment, with over 1.6 million individuals accessing antiretroviral therapy, there is a current prediction that there will be 60 million new HIV infections by 2015. Despite the commitment of substantial national and international resources, prevention efforts have failed to make an impact in those countries most burdened by the disease. It is clear that, aside from financial resources, a paradigm shift is needed to galvanize catalytic models in policy development, management, social and individual behavior change, and program implementation to prevent new infections.

The overall goal of RHAP is to strengthen the quality and impact of Southern Africa’s response to HIV/AIDS. RHAP accomplishes this goal by providing technical and programmatic support to interagency PEPFAR programs across the region, strengthening the capacity of African regional HIV/AIDS institutions, and working in collaboration with other regional donors and institutions to share information, models and lessons learned. RHAP works directly with the staff and programs engaged in PEPFAR programs in focus countries, which include personnel from the US Department of State, the United States Agency for International Development, the Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Labor, the Department of Defense, and the Peace Corps. RHAP also partners with regional donors (WHO, UNAIDS, World Bank) and governmental organizations (Southern African Development Community), as well as nongovernmental, community-based, faith-based, and training organizations. A key responsibility of the RHAP is to implement the interagency Southern Africa Prevention Initiative (SAPI) and provide a range of prevention services and activities throughout the region.

The HIV/AIDS Epidemiologist will be part of a team of seven regional technical advisors whose areas of specialty include: Orphans and Vulnerable Children, Human Capacity Development, Palliative Care, Public Private Partnerships, HIV Prevention, and Knowledge Management. Along with the HIV Prevention Advisor and the Program Officer for Finance and M&E, s/he will comprise the Prevention Team in the RHAP Office, which is a subset of the broader SAPI prevention team. S/he will be expected to work closely with, and draw on the deep epidemiological experience of, the CDC epidemiologists assigned to support activities in the Southern African region.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The HIV/AIDS Epidemiologist will provide specialized technical assistance in areas relating to HIV epidemiology, data analysis and use for strategic planning, program planning, and monitoring and evaluation purposes. S/he will provide technical assistance to achieve US Government (USG) objectives in combating the HIV epidemic in the Southern Africa region. In collaboration with host governments, US government (USG) agencies, US Embassies, nongovernmental partners, private sector organizations, and regional institutions, the HIV/AIDS Epidemiologist will provide support in the analysis, interpretation and dissemination of epidemiological and programmatic data for the advancement of HIV/AIDS programs throughout the region. Countries included in the region are South Africa, Mozambique, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Angola, and the Kingdoms of Swaziland and Lesotho.

The HIV/AIDS Epidemiologist will have responsibilities across a range of areas including to:

Enhance the utilization of epidemiological and programmatic data and models among USG and partners’ HIV/AIDS programs and policies in the Southern Africa region
Advance understanding of HIV/AIDS data and epidemiological models among USG and partners’ HIV/AIDS programs and policies to “Know Your Epidemic” in the Southern Africa region
Collaborate with multiple USG agencies, regional initiatives, and other donors in various sectors to strengthen HIV/AIDS programming, particularly relating to prevention, across Southern Africa

Under the guidance of the RHAP Office Director, S/he will:

A. Enhance the utilization of epidemiological and programmatic data and models among USG and partners’ HIV/AIDS programs and policies in the Southern Africa Region

Conduct primary and secondary analyses on epidemiological and programmatic data that can be used to guide and improve HIV/AIDS programs
Conduct epidemiological reviews and interpret survey, surveillance, and intervention program data to monitor and identify results of various HIV/AIDS prevention, care and treatment programs
Apply epidemiological and statistical design, methods, and theories in designing studies and tools to evaluate various HIV/AIDS intervention strategies
Advise USAID and USG country teams on the design and implementation of epidemiological and program data, including appropriate data collection methods, to guide the development and refinement of HIV/AIDS programs
Review research and program evaluation proposals and protocols for appropriateness of study design and statistical analysis plan
Help assess various research and evaluation priorities for epidemiological and programmatic relevance
Assist country teams in planning and designing surveys, surveillance, and health management information systems, and implementing strategies to enhance data availability and quality
Assist in data management and analysis, review and interpretation of country program results, and development and review of reports and technical publications

B. Advance the understanding of HIV/AIDS data and epidemiological models among USG and partners’ HIV/AIDS programs and policies to “Know your Epidemic” in the Southern Africa Region

Develop and deliver scientific presentations, reference materials, and speeches, as requested on HIV/AIDS epidemiology and/or modeling and related subjects for informational, advocacy, and coordination purposes
Organize, analyze, and disseminate HIV/AIDS epidemiological and program data. Develop statistical and technical summary reports based on survey and program data
Ensure that up-to-date epidemiological data are adequately utilized in country strategic planning processes, and that the USG regional approaches and programmatic guidance are in line with epidemiological needs and program goals. Working closely with the Senior Prevention Advisor, make recommendations regarding program design and program revisions based upon epidemiological evidence.
Build the capacity of USG and its partners to utilize epidemiological and programmatic data for the design of strategic programs in HIV prevention, treatment, and care

C. Collaborate with multiple USG agencies, regional initiatives, and other donors in various sectors to strengthen HIV/AIDS programming, particularly relating to prevention, across Southern Africa

Maintain knowledge of up-to-date epidemiological, surveillance, and survey data, literature and reports on HIV/AIDS, particularly as they relate to prevention program design and improvement
Organize and share epidemiological and programmatic data, analyses, and tools with USG partners and other international organizations (e.g. UNAIDS)
Serve as an active member in the Strategic Information Technical Working Group

REQUIRED SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE:

Master’s degree in epidemiology, statistics, public health, or related discipline
Minimum ten years’ experience working in HIV/AIDS epidemiology or HIV/AIDS surveillance, with at least 3-5 years’ experience in international/resource poor setting
Demonstrated technical expertise on issues related to HIV/AIDS epidemiology through publications, conference presentations, or other means
Experience in primary or secondary analysis of survey and/or surveillance data
Knowledge of principles, methods, theories, and procedures of epidemiology and biostatistics, including research design and statistical analysis
Knowledge of principles and practices of behavioral and biomedical research as applied to HIV/AIDS epidemiology, prevention, care and treatment
Familiarity with simulation modeling and applications of mathematical models in HIV/AIDS policies and programming
Familiarity with a variety of research and analytical approaches including randomized studies, health systems interventions, systematic reviews, and cost-effectiveness analyses
Experience working with USAID and/or PEPFAR
Knowledge of Portuguese language preferred
Ability to travel in Southern Africa up to 60% of the time
Ability to obtain medical clearance to live and work in South Africa
US Citizenship or Permanent Residency required

SALARY AND BENEFITS:

Salary will be based on commensurate experience and earnings history. The Public Health Institute offers a comprehensive benefits package including professional development programs

All online applications must be submitted by May 30, 2009.

We are proud to be an affirmative action employer.

Lawyer Needed for USAID-funded Water Project

admin — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 17:50:15 +0000

Chemonics International seeks a lawyer with extensive water utility public-private partnership experience for intermittent assignments on the USAID-funded Egypt Water Policy and Regulatory Reform project.

The project provides technical services and resources to the Egyptian Water Regulatory Authority and the Ministry of Housing, Utilities, and Urban Development to strengthen the policy, legal, and regulatory framework for the water and wastewater sectors in Egypt. The assignments will take place over a three to six month span and include providing advice for a planned public- private partnership for a wastewater treatment facility.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Law degree with relevant work experience in developing country context; minimum 10 years of direct experience working with water regulatory authorities, engineering and environmental laws, and public-private partnership for a wastewater treatment; minimum 10 years experience working in a developing country context; experience in the water policy and regulatory reform sector preferred; USAID or other international donor implementation experience preferred; experience working in the Middle East; Egypt experience preferred; and Arabic language capability a plus.

Chief of Party for USAID Project in Rwanda

admin — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 17:46:59 +0000

Chemonics International seeks a chief of party for an anticipated three-year, $15- million MCC/USAID-funded civic participation program in Rwanda.

Responsibilities include: design, implement, and supervise activities to meet the project’s objectives; manage everyday workflow and supervise field office staff and international consultants; authorize, track, and oversee project finances, procurement, contracting, and budget issues; interact with the national legislature, civil society organizations, local universities, and other local counterparts; provide leadership in vision, relationships, and day-to-day work planning; ensure regular, effective relations with USAID, MCC, and other U.S. government agencies and international donors.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Advanced degree in relevant field; education and experience in applied cultural anthropology or history highly desirable; minimum eight years of progressive experience managing large, complex civic participation or related project in Africa; experience in planning and managing capacity-building programs for local government and civil society organizations; experience working directly with local and national civil society organizations, in both rural and urban settings; experience managing project staff including a large local staff and subcontractors; experience with civil service codes of conduct or citizen report cards desired; demonstrated experience managing grants programs for USAID or other donors in Africa or similar environment; experience working successfully in conflict-affected societies; Rwanda experience highly desirable; knowledge of USAID and other multi- and bilateral donor rules and regulations preferred; USAID or other donor chief of party experience preferred; strong leadership and management ability; political acumen and cultural sensitivity; demonstrated communication skills; and French proficiency required.

Logistics Manager

admin — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 17:44:02 +0000

Pro-telligent, LLC is seeking a Logistics Manager. Duties and Responsibilities:

Responsible for establishing a methodology and practices for effective and best value procurement and delivery of equipment and supplies for the U.S. Department of State’s African Contingency Operations Training Assistance (ACOTA) Program. Responsible for overall management and coordination of ACOTA logistics procurement and delivery programs in accordance with contracted task order stipulations. Logistics Manager shall be a leader willing to take an active and aggressive role in all areas relating to Supply Chain Management (SCM). Must have experience participating in Proposal strategy and development relating to the SCM content. Leads target setting process and manages SCM teams to ensure negotiation objectives and results are consistent with commitments. Maintains Senior level interface that includes direct liaison with the Program Manager, Deputy Program Manager, and the APO. Provides input and supports internal customer proposals and responses including risk identification and mitigation. Negotiates and executes formal contract establishing a program’s specific budget, budget targets and spending profile. Develops program launch and execution plans and presents them to the PM and APO for approval. Present equipment status to customers on a real time basis when requested by the APO. Status reports will include program overview, opportunities for specific planning and procurement strategies, risk assessment, mitigation recommendations, shipping schedules and any unique customer requirements affecting the flow of ACOTA equipment and supplies. Maintains material visibility, shortage analysis, and takes appropriate actions to minimize impacts throughout the life of the program. Manages all Technical Problems and supplies a summary of problems to the PM and APO. Visits and manages key suppliers and supports customer presentations as required. Conducts thorough coordination with suppliers, the USG, partner nations, and commercial shippers to ensure timely and secure delivery of equipment and supplies to ACOTA Partner nations. Responsible for ensuring all bi-lateral inventory tasks are conducted in accordance with APO bi-lateral inventory standing operating procedures. Responsible for accounting for the condition and amount of all APO ordered equipment from the time of its delivery to the contracted organizations warehouse through the completion of the bi-lateral inventory with host nation officials. Responsible for coordinating with the APO, host nation, and country team for personnel and equipment support to conduct tasked bi-lateral inventories. Responsible for providing original copy of contractor and host nation signed bi-lateral inventories to the APO within ten (10) days of the completion of the bi-lateral inventory. Logistics Manager (LM) provides information and data on transportation costs as well as transportation cost proposals to the APO for approval.

QUALIFICATIONS: Six to ten years of proven experience in acquisition logistics management and project life support. Working knowledge and/or familiarity with DOS procedures and guidelines. Working knowledge and/or familiarity with DOS procedures and guidelines, Air, Rail, Sea and Depot operations, and/or other applicable Transportation management policies and procedures. Experience with logistical support to Africa is preferred. Former Military Officer (05 -06) Quartermaster or Ordnance officer or civilian equivalent desired. Logistics and fiscal experience at the strategic level is desirable. T

Deputy Program Manager

admin — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 17:42:27 +0000

Pro-telligent, LLC is seeking a Deputy Program Manager. Duties and Responsibilities:

The Deputy Program Manager (DPM) assists the Program Manager in directing all aspects of contracted services that allow the organization to successfully operate the planning, supervision, and execution of the U.S. Department of State’s complex, multifaceted African Contingency Operations Training Assistance (ACOTA) Program in Africa in accordance with contracted task orders. Supports PM for Operations, Logistics, Plans, Contracts, Human Resources, Finance, Management and Security of Information Systems and Information, all matters associated with Safety and Risk Assessments of ACOTA training tasks, Security and Accountability of Equipment, and Quality Assurance for all ACOTA related projects tasked to the PM’s organization. Acts as alternate point of contact to the APO for all contractual matters in the absence of the PM and at the direction of the PM. Assists the PM in ensuring all contact with the US country team and the host nation military leadership has been coordinated with the APO. Supports company fulfillment of all ACOTA requirements as prescribed in Task Order proposals. Assists the PM in adjusting contractor assets and company resources to meet unique host nation training requirements while remaining within the parameters of the work statement. The DPM may perform a broad range of duties as directed by the PM. These duties may include managing First-line administrative services and managers and directly supervising a staff that performs various support services. DPM assists the PM in developing departmental plans, setting goals and deadlines, implementing procedures to improve productivity and customer service, and defining the responsibilities of supervisory-level managers. Assists PM to coordinate and monitor the scheduling, pricing, and technical performance of company programs. As directed by the PM, monitors that ACOTA projects are completed on time, within budget, and in accordance with contractual task stipulations. The DPM assists the PM in all PM duties as specified in the PM position description.

QUALIFICATIONS: The DPM shall have the following education, experience, and military background unless otherwise approved in advance by the Contracting Officer Representative. The DPM shall have a unique blend of skills, experience, and knowledge that will allow that individual to best support the goals and tasks of the ACOTA Program. Minimum of 10 years military operations and training (or civilian equivalent) experience required with a strong background in overseas program operations focused on training local national military personnel and units at the battalion or brigade level. Has a minimum of three to five years of increasingly responsible experience as a Program Manager or Project Manager in the field of military training or in a related area. Strong business and financial management experience preferred. Preferably an individual with U.S. Military combat and/or PKO experience at 0-4, O-5, or O-6 level (or civilian equivalent) who has completed U.S. Military Education Level 3 or 4 (Command and General Staff College or equivalent) completion requirements. Familiar with standard PM concepts, practices, and procedures within the field of training foreign military and PKO personnel and organizations. Preferred to have experience operating in areas with limited life cycle support and in hardship conditions.

Global Health Fellows Program: Senior Regional Technical Advisor for HIV/AIDS Prevention

admin — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 17:01:19 +0000

Global Health Fellows Program
Technical Advisor III: Senior Regional Technical Advisor for HIV/AIDS Prevention
USAID/South Africa
Assignment: Two year fellowship
GHFP-09-134

The Global Health Fellows Program (GHFP) is a five year cooperative agreement implemented and managed by the Public Health Institute (PHI) in partnership with the Harvard School of Public Health, Management Systems International and Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine. GHFP is supported by the US Agency for International Development (USAID).

INTRODUCTION

The region served by RHAP is at the epicenter of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and remains by far the region worst affected by HIV/AIDS in the world. With less than 2% of the world’s population, the 10 Southern African countries account for 30% of HIV-positive individuals, 27% of children orphaned by AIDS, and 32% of AIDS deaths. The impact of HIV in the region is also compounded by a rampant tuberculosis epidemic. While PEPFAR has achieved significant success in treatment, with over 1.6 million individuals accessing antiretroviral therapy, there is a current prediction that there will be 60 million new HIV infections by 2015. Despite the commitment of substantial national and international resources, prevention efforts have failed to make an impact in those countries most burdened by the disease. It is clear that, aside from financial resources, a paradigm shift is needed to galvanize catalytic models in policy development, management, social and individual-behavior change, and program implementation to prevent new infections.

The overall goal of the Regional HIV/AIDS Program is to strengthen the quality and impact of Southern Africa’s response to HIV/AIDS. RHAP accomplishes this goal by providing technical and programmatic support to PEPFAR programs across the region, strengthening the capacity of African regional HIV/AIDS institutions, and working in collaboration with other regional donors and institutions to share information, models and lessons learned. RHAP works directly with the staff and programs engaged in PEPFAR programs in focus countries, which include personnel from the State Department, USAID, Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Labor, Department of Defense, and the Peace Corps. RHAP also partners with regional donors (WHO, UNAIDS, World Bank) and governmental organizations (Southern African Development Community), as well as nongovernmental, community-based, faith-based, and training organizations. A key responsibility of RHAP is to implement the interagency Southern Africa Prevention Initiative (SAPI) and provide a range of prevention services and activities throughout the region. Countries included in the region are South Africa, Mozambique, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Angola, and the Kingdoms of Swaziland and Lesotho.

The Senior Regional Technical Advisor for HIV/AIDS Prevention will be part of a team of seven regional technical advisors whose areas of specialty include: Orphans and Vulnerable Children, Human Capacity Development, Palliative Care, Public Private Partnerships, HIV Epidemiology, and Knowledge Management. This position will have particular responsibilities in regard to the implementation of SAPI, and together with the RHAP Team Leader will collaborate extensively with the agencies and missions in the region as well as with the Office of the Global AIDS Coordinator (OGAC). Along with the HIV Epidemiologist and the Program Officer for Finance and Monitoring & Evaluation, the Senior Regional Technical Advisor will comprise the Prevention Team in the RHAP Office, which is a subset of the broader SAPI prevention team.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Senior Regional Technical Advisor for HIV/AIDS Prevention will provide support in the design, implementation, and evaluation of HIV/AIDS prevention programs throughout the region, as well as provide specialized technical assistance in areas relating to primary prevention and behavioral change, data analysis and use, strategic planning, program implementation, and managing activities in regional prevention agreements. S/he will:

Support the development, improvement and dissemination of sound HIV/AIDS prevention policies and programs throughout the region in response to evolving epidemiological data

Maintain knowledge of the state-of-the-art relevant programmatic, behavioral, and epidemiological research in the reduction of high risk behaviors related to HIV transmission; and remain informed of other scientific aspects of HIV/STI prevention and mitigation, especially in Southern Africa

Working closely with the SAPI Epidemiologist, make recommendations to improve the overall alignment of prevention portfolios with the epidemics

Develop and deliver scientific presentations, reference materials and speeches as requested on key aspects of HIV/AIDS prevention and related subjects for informational, advocacy and coordination purposes

Support efforts to ensure that state-of-the-art gender and stigma-reduction programming are effectively incorporated across prevention interventions, and establish linkages between prevention approaches and testing, care, and treatment programs

Facilitate the collection and dissemination of information about HIV/AIDS prevention programming achievements and lessons learned

Serve as an active member of the PEPFAR General Population and Youth Prevention Technical Working Group

Working closely with the RHAP Knowledge Management Advisor, create opportunities for US Government (USG) staff and partners to exchange program models and experiences, including joint brainstorming to address issues such as: key drivers of the epidemic, partner coordination, community outreach, and integration of prevention across multiple areas

In collaboration with the RHAP Knowledge Management Advisor and the PEPFAR Technical Working Groups, facilitate regional information sharing of programmatic achievements and lessons learned

Provide technical assistance to non-presence countries, bilateral countries, and PEPFAR focus countries

Serve as a liaison and resource to PEPFAR programs across the region for technical and programmatic expertise in HIV/AIDS prevention, including male circumcision, multiple concurrent partnerships, alcohol-related issues, and other emerging areas

In collaboration with the PEPFAR Technical Working Groups, facilitate the HIV/AIDS prevention technical assistance needs in the region

Provide assistance with behavior change program design, implementation, evaluation, and coordination

Collaborate with multiple USG agencies, regional initiatives, and other donors in various sectors to strengthen prevention programming across Southern Africa

Coordinate HIV/AIDS prevention programming with PEPFAR partners and programs in the Southern Africa region, the USAID Africa Bureau, USAID’s Office of HIV/AIDS, OGAC, other USG agencies, and other international agencies, donors, and partners to assure maximal coordination of effort, strengthened linkages between program and policies, and the identification of program opportunities in other sectors that might strengthen the overall response to the epidemic in the region

Participate in strategic planning, implementation, and monitoring and evaluation for the RHAP program in the area of prevention.

REQUIRED SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE:

Master’s degree in public health, medicine, behavioral science or related field

Minimum ten years’ experience in the design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of international HIV/AIDS programs of which three to five years is HIV/AIDS programming experience in developing countries/resource poor setting

Demonstrated technical expertise on issues related to HIV/AIDS prevention through publications, conference presentations, or other means

Familiarity with USAID administrative and procurement processes

Knowledge of working with the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief

Proven interpersonal skills in working effectively as a member of a team or independently

Ability to deal effectively and diplomatically with multiple US and host country government agencies, non-governmental organizations, faith-based organizations, and the private sector

Proven verbal and written communication skills including a demonstrated ability to write technical documents and give state-of-the-art presentations

Willingness to travel in Southern Africa up to 60% of the time

Portuguese language skills preferred

Ability to obtain medical clearance to live and work in South Africa

US Citizenship or Permanent Residency required

SALARY AND BENEFITS:
Salary will be based on commensurate experience and earnings history. The Public Health Institute offers a comprehensive benefits package including professional development programs.

Health Professions Education Coordinator - Tanzania

admin — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 17:10:53 +0000

The Institute for Global Health at the University of California, San Francisco invites applications for the position of Health Professions Education Coordinator (Tanzania). Appointment will be in the Academic Coordinator series, the level of which will be determined by experience and training.

Duties: The successful candidate will coordinate the UCSF efforts to collaborate with the Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS) to address the healthcare workforce crisis in Tanzania. She or he will lead a team in developing and implementing the curricular and faculty development components of the program. Specific responsibilities include contributing to: the faculty needs assessment; introducing new tools and technologies for teaching, assessment and evaluation; establishing the MUHAS Centre for Health Professions Education; developing and delivering a faculty training module on education at MUHAS; and implementing the Tracer Study and continuing education needs survey.

QUALIFICATIONS: Clinical qualification in a health profession. Advanced degree relevant to educational programs in global health setting. Demonstrated experience in education and in the development and leadership of academic programs. Demonstrated experience working in cross-cultural settings, preferably East Africa. Excellent writing, public speaking and presentation skills. Strong project and team management skills. Ability to develop and maintain collaborative relationships with people and institutions. Sensitivity to diplomatic, political and cultural norms of multiple cultures. Familiarity with current global health and development issues. Must be available to travel to Tanzania for up to four months a year.

Monitoring and Evaluation Advisor - Mali

admin — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 17:06:58 +0000

MACRO is seeking a Monitoring and Evaluation Resident Advisor to serve in Bamako, Mali.

MACRO INTERNATIONAL INC. is a professional services firm offering high quality research, management consulting and information technology services supporting business and government.

This person will primarily provide leadership and technical assistance to the National Malaria Control Program (NMCP) to strengthen their ability to collect, manage, process and use data for programmatic decision- making. The Resident Advisor will additionally provide limited M&E assistance to USG implementing partners and will work closely with the NMCP and other malaria stakeholders to ensure coordinated support for the malaria control program.

The Advisor will be assigned initially for one year, renewable annually thereafter pending availability of funding. Specific tasks will include but not be limited to the following:

Work closely with the NMCP director and the Planning and M&E Specialist to build capacity to implement a comprehensive plan for monitoring and evaluating all NMCP activities.
Help develop a routine data collection and management system for the National Malaria Control
Program integrating a variety of data sources, including developing protocols and data collection tools, and overseeing the development of data platforms.
Assist NMCP to prepare regional workshops and training materials to disseminate M&E plan and data collection tools.
Strengthen NMCP’s capacity to manage large quantities of data, ensure data quality, undertake analysis, and prepare reports targeted at different audiences.
Work with the national health information system (HIS) to strengthen MOH capacity at the central, regional and district levels to process and utilize data through workshop.
Support malaria sentinel surveillance activities as needed.
Work with USG implementing partners to strengthen their M&E capacity as needed.
Help coordinate population and facility-based surveys.

QUALIFICATIONS and Skills: Advanced degree (doctoral degree highly preferred) in public health or related fields. Minimum 5 years experience in monitoring and evaluation of health or other international programs; expertise in malaria preferred. Strong data analysis and writing skills required. Fluency in English and French required. Proven familiarity with USAID operations preferred. Experience residing in a developing country. Prior experience in Mali or West Africa preferred.