Provincial Coordinator, Maternal and Newborn Health, Emergency Referral Systems

Job Posting Organization:
The Clinton Health Access Initiative, Inc. (CHAI) is a global health organization founded in 2002, primarily in response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Its mission is to save lives and reduce the burden of disease in low- and middle-income countries. CHAI works at the invitation of governments to support them and the private sector in creating and sustaining high-quality health systems. Over the years, CHAI has expanded its focus beyond HIV to include infectious diseases such as COVID-19, malaria, tuberculosis, and hepatitis, as well as non-communicable diseases like cancer and diabetes. The organization operates in 40 countries and employs a diverse team dedicated to maximizing sustainable impact at scale, ensuring that governments lead the solutions, and sharing learnings globally. CHAI is committed to diversity and inclusion, recognizing that its mission is best advanced by the contributions of individuals with varied experiences and backgrounds.

Job Overview:
The Provincial Coordinator for Maternal and Newborn Health Emergency Referral Systems will be responsible for leading the implementation of emergency referral activities in the Copperbelt and Southern Provinces of Zambia. This role involves serving as the principal link between the national ERS team and provincial stakeholders, ensuring that patients experiencing time-critical conditions receive timely and appropriate care. The coordinator will work closely with various health offices, facilities, community structures, and partners to strengthen referral pathways and improve emergency transport operations. The position requires frequent travel within the assigned provinces to oversee the implementation of activities and ensure effective coordination among all stakeholders involved in the emergency referral system.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Provincial Coordinator include:

• Supporting the development of provincial and district work plans and budgets, ensuring timely delivery of activities.
• Acting as the main liaison between the national ERS team and local health authorities, community structures, and service providers.
• Coordinating inception, planning, and review meetings at provincial and district levels, maintaining accurate records and action logs.
• Monitoring implementation progress, identifying operational bottlenecks, and coordinating corrective actions.
• Engaging with community referral structures and delivering targeted training for community health workers and ambulance riders.
• Mapping and verifying the functionality of ambulances and other referral vehicles, ensuring effective deployment and maintenance.
• Coordinating training and mentorship for healthcare workers on referral protocols and safe transport operations.
• Supporting data collection and reporting through various health information systems.
• Documenting implementation experiences and contributing to policy dialogue and program adaptation efforts.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in public health, health sciences, community health, social sciences, development studies, program management, or a related field. A relevant master's degree is considered an advantage. Additionally, candidates should have at least five years of relevant experience in coordinating public health programs, particularly in maternal and newborn health, emergency referral systems, or health systems strengthening. Experience working effectively with government authorities and community structures is essential, along with strong planning, monitoring, and analytical skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications is also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as public health or health sciences. A master's degree in a related area is preferred and may enhance a candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in public health coordination, particularly in maternal and newborn health, emergency referral systems, or health systems strengthening. Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record of coordinating implementation across various levels of health systems and working effectively with government and community stakeholders.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the international nature of the organization and the need for effective communication with various stakeholders. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Zambia may be advantageous but is not explicitly stated as a requirement.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time position based in the Copperbelt and Southern Provinces of Zambia, with one coordinator assigned to each province. The role involves frequent travel within the assigned provinces, including remote communities. CHAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity and inclusion in its workforce.