Program Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The Clinton Health Access Initiative, Inc. (CHAI) is a global health organization founded in 2002, dedicated to saving lives and reducing the burden of disease in low- and middle-income countries. CHAI operates in over 40 countries and focuses on creating and sustaining high-quality health systems. Initially established to combat the HIV/AIDS epidemic, CHAI has since expanded its mission to include a wide range of health issues, including infectious diseases like COVID-19, malaria, tuberculosis, and non-communicable diseases such as cancer and diabetes. The organization emphasizes the importance of investing in health systems and works closely with governments to ensure that health solutions are sustainable and scalable. CHAI values diversity and inclusion, recognizing that a diverse workforce enhances its mission and effectiveness.

Job Overview:
The Program Manager position at CHAI is a critical role aimed at supporting governments in responding to the challenges posed by shrinking aid budgets and funding reductions. The role involves embedding technical teams within Ministries of Health to provide strategic support focused on health system reform and sustainability. The Program Manager will work across a portfolio of high-priority countries in the Southeast Asia Pacific (SEAP) region, including Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam. This position requires strong analytical and communication skills, as well as experience in strengthening primary health care systems. The Program Manager will develop innovative financing strategies and implement core health system reforms, contributing to a significant initiative that seeks to turn funding crises into opportunities for systemic change. The role demands flexibility, with up to 50% travel within the SEAP region, and offers a unique opportunity to engage with senior government stakeholders and contribute to the development of resilient health systems.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Program Manager will be responsible for delivering senior-level technical assistance to CHAI country teams and government counterparts in areas such as health financing and health systems strengthening. Key responsibilities include providing strategic leadership for health systems strengthening efforts, guiding the design and implementation of system reforms, and leading high-impact analytical work to inform policy design and investment decisions. The Program Manager will engage with donors and partners, represent CHAI in strategic dialogues, and build partnerships with technical agencies. Additionally, the role involves capturing and synthesizing lessons from CHAI's work, developing knowledge products, and facilitating cross-country exchanges to foster collaborative problem-solving.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a degree in health economics, public health, public policy, or a related field, along with at least 6–8 years of experience in health systems strengthening or health financing, preferably within low- and middle-income countries. Experience in the Asia Pacific region is strongly preferred. Successful candidates will have demonstrated success in partnering with government institutions, engaging with bilateral and multilateral donors, and leading complex initiatives. Strong leadership, project management, analytical, and problem-solving skills are essential, as well as a passion for mentoring and capacity strengthening. Exceptional communication skills are required to synthesize technical content for diverse audiences.

Educational Background:
A degree in health economics, public health, public policy, or a related field is required for this position. Candidates should have a strong academic background that supports their understanding of health systems and financing.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 6–8 years of relevant experience in health systems strengthening or health financing, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Experience in the Asia Pacific region is highly desirable, along with a proven track record of engaging with government institutions and donors.

Languages:
Professional fluency in English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position. Additional language skills relevant to the SEAP region may be considered an asset but are not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Laos with flexibility to be located in other CHAI program countries in the SEAP region. The role is full-time and may require up to 50% travel within the region. CHAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity and inclusion in its workforce.