Maternal, Newborn Child Health (MNCH) Technical Advisor I

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 diverse workforce of over 4,000 employees. The organization focuses on various sectors including health, education, and economic development, aiming to create a positive impact on communities worldwide. FHI 360 is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of individuals and communities, ensuring that their programs are effective and sustainable.

Job Overview:
The Maternal, Newborn Child Health (MNCH) Technical Advisor I will play a pivotal role in providing strategic and technical leadership for the Strengthening Infectious Disease Detection Systems (STRIDES) Activity, specifically focusing on MNCH surveillance, skilled care, and life-saving interventions endorsed by the U.S. Government for pregnant women, newborns, and children. This position requires ensuring that all MNCH activities align with global guidance, national policies, and donor regulations while delivering high-quality strategic assistance in Madagascar. The Advisor will oversee in-country implementation, collaborating closely with regional and country teams to maintain fidelity to STRIDES’ technical approaches, troubleshoot challenges, and adapt interventions to changing epidemiological and operational contexts. Additionally, the Advisor will contribute to the technical portions of the workplan and lead various project activities, playing a central role in strengthening MNCH systems and providing mentorship and strategic assistance to local partners and government counterparts. The role also involves developing tools and guidance to enhance STRIDES’ MNCH portfolio and visibility in the integration of MNCH services with polio and infectious disease surveillance.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The MNCH Technical Advisor will be responsible for a wide range of duties including: providing evidence-based MNCH technical leadership to support the design and implementation of the STRIDES-MNCH Activity; ensuring compliance with local and global guidelines; leading day-to-day technical and operational activities; responding to requests for technical assistance from the Country Office, USG, and Ministry of Health; developing MNCH capacity strengthening tools; tracking project outputs; participating in meetings with stakeholders; providing technical direction to local subcontractors; drafting workplans and reports; supervising field staff and local consultants; preparing presentations and technical briefs; and identifying areas for program improvement. The Advisor will also be expected to manage projects effectively, set realistic priorities, and ensure the quality of technical activities at all levels.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's Degree or an International Equivalent in Health, Life/Social Sciences, International Development, or a related field. A Project Management (PM) Certification is considered a plus. The role requires strong analytical and problem-solving skills, the ability to manage projects and set priorities, and the capability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and external partners. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a deep understanding of MNCH, surveillance, laboratory services, and reporting.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's Degree or an equivalent qualification in relevant fields such as Health, Life/Social Sciences, or International Development. A Project Management Certification is advantageous and may enhance a candidate's profile.

Experience:
The position typically requires at least 8 years of relevant experience in designing and evaluating applicable programs or services. Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of experience specifically in MNCH public health programs, particularly in developing countries, with a focus on infectious illnesses, surveillance, and disease control. Experience in MNCH-focused surveillance, laboratory support, and Global Health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security is essential, along with prior work experience in NGOs, government agencies, or private organizations engaged in MNCH programming. International program development or management experience is preferred, as well as proven expertise in developing effective partnerships with various stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in French is highly desirable. Knowledge of local languages may also be beneficial for effective communication within the community and with local partners.

Additional Notes:
This position may involve local and regional travel, estimated at 10-25%. The expected hiring salary range for this role is MGA 60,000,000 - 80,000,000 for annual basic salary. FHI 360 considers various factors when determining an offer amount, including relevant experience and education, internal equity, market pay, and budget constraints. The organization is committed to equal opportunity and affirmative action, ensuring a non-discriminatory hiring process. FHI 360 also emphasizes safeguarding against abuse and exploitation in its work environments and requires all personnel to adhere to a code of conduct.