Senior Program Officer - Health Systems Strengthening, Health Financing and Supply Chain Management

Job Posting Organization:
The organization is the largest nonprofit dedicated to combating poverty, disease, and inequity globally. Founded on the principle that everyone, regardless of their identity or circumstances, deserves the opportunity to lead healthy and productive lives, the organization emphasizes diversity among its employees to reflect the 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, regional holidays, and opportunities for employees to engage in various community initiatives. The organization is committed to fostering a workplace environment that supports both personal and professional growth.

Job Overview:
The Senior Program Officer (SPO) will be responsible for leading the development and management of a strategic portfolio of investments aimed at strengthening primary health care through health care financing, pharmaceutical systems, and supply chain management. This role is tailored for a senior leader with extensive expertise in health financing and health economics, as well as experience in pharmaceutical systems and supply chain management. The SPO will work closely with the Government of Ethiopia, donors, and implementing partners to provide technical leadership, strategic analysis, and oversight of investments that align with the Foundation's health systems objectives. The position emphasizes the importance of cultivating strategic partnerships and representing the Foundation in both national and global technical forums, contributing to the shaping of the Foundation's strategy in health financing and systems strengthening. The role is focused on translating global strategies into actionable country-level initiatives that lead to measurable improvements in Ethiopia's primary health care system.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Portfolio Strategy, Investment Design & Grantmaking: Lead the design, development, negotiation, execution, and management of grants and contracts aligned with the Foundation’s health financing and systems strengthening strategy. Identify new investment opportunities and develop grant concepts that respond to national priorities. Review proposals, conduct assessments, and provide funding recommendations. Manage portfolio budgets and ensure compliance with Foundation policies.
• Investment Oversight & Portfolio Management: Provide strategic oversight of active grants, ensuring high-quality implementation and achievement of milestones. Manage risks and ensure measurable impact across the portfolio. Track performance against indicators and course-correct as needed.
• Government Engagement & Policy Dialogue: Engage regularly with the Government of Ethiopia, particularly the Ministry of Health, to advance joint priorities. Support the implementation of health financing and supply chain initiatives at various levels.
• Representation on Coordination Platforms & Governance Bodies: Represent the Foundation in national technical working groups and partner coordination platforms. Attend national, regional, and global meetings related to health financing and systems strengthening.
• Technical Leadership: Serve as the Foundation’s technical representative on health care financing and supply chain management initiatives. Translate complex issues into actionable recommendations for diverse audiences.
• Partnerships & Donor Coordination: Build partnerships with donors, development finance institutions, and implementing partners to maximize program impact. Strengthen collaboration on health financing and supply chain priorities.
• Cross-Foundation Collaboration: Collaborate across Foundation teams to ensure alignment with broader health strategies and foster an inclusive culture.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree or equivalent experience in fields such as medicine, public health, health economics, health financing, health policy, pharmacy, or supply chain management. They should have experience in a global health organization, demonstrating leadership in health systems strengthening initiatives. Proven experience in designing and managing health care financing initiatives, as well as experience with pharmaceutical systems and supply chain management, is essential. Candidates should also have experience working with Ministries of Health and other government institutions, particularly in Ethiopia, and should have collaborated with bilateral and multilateral donors. Strong project management skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities are crucial.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in a relevant field such as medicine, public health, health economics, health policy, pharmacy, or supply chain management is required. Equivalent demonstrated experience may also be considered.

Experience:
Candidates should have significant experience in public or private global health organizations, with a proven track record in health systems strengthening initiatives. Experience in designing, implementing, and managing health care financing initiatives is essential, along with demonstrated experience in pharmaceutical systems and health supply chain management. Familiarity with working alongside Ministries of Health and other government institutions is preferred, especially in the context of Ethiopia.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in local languages would be advantageous. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively with diverse audiences, including senior government officials and donor representatives.

Additional Notes:
This is a 6-month, limited-term position based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The role requires the ability to travel up to 30% domestically and internationally. The position does not offer visa sponsorship, and applicants must possess current work authorization. The hiring process will include a background check, and accommodations will be provided for candidates with disabilities or medical conditions. The organization is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in its hiring practices.