Principal Officer (Advisor), Programmatic Impact

Principal Officer (Advisor), Programmatic Impact

Gates Foundation

March 14, 2026April 28, 2026LondonUnited Kingdom
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The organization is the largest nonprofit dedicated to fighting poverty, disease, and inequity globally. It was founded on the belief that every individual, regardless of their identity or circumstances, should have the opportunity to lead a healthy and productive life. The foundation emphasizes the importance of diversity among its employees, reflecting the varied global populations it serves. It offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage without premiums, generous paid time off, paid family leave, retirement contributions funded by the foundation, regional holidays, and opportunities for employees to engage in various community initiatives. The foundation is committed to fostering a workplace environment that supports both personal and professional growth for its employees.

Job Overview:
The Principal Officer (Advisor), Programmatic Impact will play a crucial role within the Global Health Agencies and Funds (GHAF) team of the Global Development Division. This position is primarily focused on enhancing the foundation's programmatic collaborations with key global health institutions, specifically the Global Fund and WHO. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing strong internal relationships within the foundation, particularly with senior members of Program Strategy Teams (PSTs) that focus on HIV, TB, Malaria, and the Africa Regional Office (ARO) health team. The role involves providing strategic advice and support for the effective execution of programmatic investments and collaborations, ensuring that the foundation's engagement strategies are implemented effectively. The Principal Officer will also represent the GHAF team in relevant technical committees and groups, maintaining active relationships with disease and technical teams in the Global Fund and WHO.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Principal Officer will engage in active collaboration with Directors and Deputy Directors, as well as relevant team members, particularly those involved in HIV, TB, Malaria, MNCH, and ARO health teams. Key responsibilities include advising PSTs on programmatic investments related to the Global Fund and WHO, reviewing investments during grant development stages, and identifying co-investment opportunities between GHAF and PSTs/ARO. The role also involves tracking the implementation of PST investments, maintaining relationships with disease and technical teams in the Global Fund and WHO, and participating in disease situation rooms to inform foundation engagement. The Principal Officer will represent the foundation on the Global Fund’s Grant Approvals Committee, manage quarterly meetings on priority programmatic issues, provide strategic input on committee and board papers, and develop technical papers on disease issues to inform governance positions. Additionally, the role requires active engagement in the development and revisions of the foundation’s institutional engagement strategies for the Global Fund and WHO.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess extensive experience at a senior level in international health, with a strong preference for expertise in HIV, TB, and/or malaria. The ideal candidate should have a proven track record of technical and programmatic leadership, particularly in collaboration with the Global Fund and WHO at both headquarters and country levels. Experience in strategy implementation, change management, risk management, and performance monitoring is essential. Candidates should also have significant experience in cultivating trust and managing relationships, demonstrating flexibility and diplomacy in guiding complex situations. Strong partnership development skills, conflict management abilities, and consensus-building experience are critical for success in this role.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required, typically including a graduate degree in public health, international relations, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in global health or related disciplines may be preferred, reflecting the complexity and demands of the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a substantial level of experience, ideally over 10 years, in international health, with a focus on programmatic leadership and collaboration with major global health institutions. Experience in a highly matrixed organization is advantageous, as is a clear understanding of strategic frameworks that guide organizational decisions.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with additional language skills considered a plus, particularly in languages relevant to the regions served by the foundation. Proficiency in languages such as French or Spanish may enhance a candidate's profile, given the foundation's global reach.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in London and is expected to involve international travel up to 30% of the time. The foundation is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible hiring experience, ensuring that all candidates have equal opportunities regardless of their backgrounds. The application process includes a standard background check, and accommodations are available for candidates with disabilities or medical conditions. The foundation values diversity, equity, and inclusion in its workforce and practices.
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