Associate Director, Technical

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 aims to create a positive impact on communities worldwide.

Job Overview:
The Associate Director, Technical will play a pivotal role in overseeing the STRengthening Infectious Disease DEtection Systems (STRIDES) project, which is aimed at enhancing global health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security in Malawi. This position requires the individual to establish and continuously refine technical frameworks, approaches, tools, and activities that align with relevant normative guidelines and technical standards. The Associate Director will be responsible for directing the technical development and implementation processes of the STRIDES project, ensuring that all technical aspects are monitored from initiation through to project closeout. The individual will also engage with qualified partners to ensure technical performance and will supervise and mentor technical staff to meet project objectives. This role is crucial for contributing project experience and learning to global thought leadership initiatives in Global Health Security.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Associate Director, Technical include serving as the technical lead for the STRIDES project, monitoring technical delivery to ensure milestones and targets are met, and coordinating closely with the Government of Malawi and other stakeholders. The individual will oversee the technical capacity strengthening of project subrecipients, ensuring high-quality technical deliverables such as work plans and annual reports are developed and submitted on time. The Associate Director will also manage project activities to ensure compliance with donor requirements and FHI 360’s policies. Additionally, the role involves providing direction for technical activities, responding to donor and government requests, and managing a team to ensure effective project implementation. The Associate Director will also support performance management and professional development of direct reports, design and evaluate recruitment and supervision activities, and contribute to the overall strategic goals of the STRIDES project.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires comprehensive technical knowledge of project management theories, concepts, and practices, particularly in infectious disease preparedness, prevention, detection, and outbreak response. The candidate should have a deep understanding of the public health sector in Malawi, including familiarity with health information systems and monitoring and evaluation processes. Excellent oral and written communication skills, organizational and analytical skills, and demonstrated project and technical leadership are essential. The ability to motivate and influence others to achieve organizational goals is also required.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or its international equivalent in Health or a related field. A Medical Degree (MBBS/MBChB or MD) along with a Master’s Degree is strongly preferred, indicating a high level of expertise in health-related fields.

Experience:
Typically, candidates should have at least 10 years of relevant technical or project management experience, including a minimum of 3 years in leadership and line management roles. Experience in designing and implementing innovative technical support to local entities and frontline service delivery teams is crucial. Familiarity with Global Health Security projects or activities is preferred, and experience working in a non-governmental organization (NGO) is desirable. Prior experience with a US Government contract is an added advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as the candidate must be able to read, write, and speak the language proficiently. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not specified as mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position may require travel of more than 25% of the time. The job is based in a typical office environment, and candidates should be prepared for the physical demands of the role, including the ability to sit and stand for extended periods and perform repetitive tasks. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding against abuse, exploitation, and harassment in its work environments. The organization offers a competitive benefits package and supports professional development and work/life balance.