Principal Investigator (PI)

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions for human development. Established in 1980, FHI 360 operates in more than 60 countries and has a workforce of over 4,000 employees. The organization focuses on various sectors including health, education, and economic development, and is committed to fostering sustainable solutions that empower communities and individuals.

Job Overview:
The Principal Investigator (PI) position is a critical leadership role within FHI 360, primarily responsible for overseeing a five-year USG funded HIV services and health systems activity in Zambia. The PI will lead the project with a focus on sustaining HIV services through strengthening government-led health systems. This includes ensuring the implementation of evidence-based HIV treatment and laboratory services, as well as adherence and retention strategies. The PI will direct the technical team, manage relationships with national and international partners, and ensure compliance with US government regulations. The role requires a strategic vision to achieve project goals and outcomes, while also promoting innovations in HIV management and health practitioner capacity building.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The PI will provide overall technical and administrative leadership for the project, ensuring effective management and implementation of activities. Key responsibilities include serving as the primary liaison with the CDC and the Government of Zambia’s Ministry of Health, coordinating project activities with national public health priorities, and ensuring that project goals and benchmarks are met within budget. The PI will promote the use of evidence-based tools in HIV management, manage the project’s subaward portfolio, and oversee project planning, monitoring, and reporting. Additionally, the PI will lead performance management of direct reports and foster a safe and equitable work environment, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and policies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s Degree or an international equivalent in public health or a relevant field. A minimum of 15 years of relevant experience in project management is required, including at least 10 years in strategic leadership or line management roles. Candidates should have at least 5 years of experience as a Chief of Party, Principal Investigator, or Project Director in government-funded sectors or value chain development projects. Demonstrable experience in public health, health systems, health policy, and HIV programs is essential, along with knowledge of USG rules and regulations.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position includes a Master’s Degree or an equivalent qualification in public health or a related field. This advanced degree is crucial for understanding the complexities of health systems and the management of HIV services.

Experience:
The position requires extensive experience, typically 15 years or more, in project management principles and practices. Candidates should have significant experience in leadership roles, particularly in the context of government-funded projects and health systems in Sub-Saharan Africa, with a preference for experience in Zambia. Experience leading teams for CDC awards and working within non-governmental organizations is also highly valued.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, encompassing oral, written, and reading skills. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not specified as mandatory for this position.

Additional Notes:
This position is contingent upon the successful award of the project and is subject to USG approval. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding against abuse and harassment in the workplace. The organization conducts thorough screening checks for all employment offers, including reference and criminal record checks. FHI 360 offers a competitive benefits package and promotes a healthy work/life balance, encouraging applicants to join their global workforce to make a positive impact.