Senior Technical Officer (STO) - Demand Planning Laboratory Services

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 through evidence-based programs and partnerships.

Job Overview:
The Senior Technical Officer (STO) for Demand Planning Laboratory Services plays a crucial role in providing technical assistance to the National AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections and Hepatitis Control Programme (NASHCOP), the National TB and Leprosy Programme (NTLP), and the National Malaria Control Programme (NMCP). The primary function of this position is to ensure the effective planning and management of laboratory commodities related to HIV/AIDS, TB, and Malaria. The STO will be responsible for accurately quantifying, forecasting, procuring, storing, distributing, and managing laboratory commodities in accordance with national policies and regulatory requirements. This role involves close collaboration with various stakeholders, including government entities and implementing partners, to enhance the availability and accessibility of laboratory commodities across the country. The STO will also contribute to strengthening laboratory systems by preparing technical reports, guidance materials, and evidence-based solutions, while overseeing the evaluation of programmatic effectiveness and providing technical assessment reports on laboratory services and supply chain activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Technical Officer include leading the forecasting, quantification, and demand planning for laboratory commodities to ensure uninterrupted availability of essential products. The STO will develop, review, and update national laboratory supply plans in alignment with the Ministry of Health's priorities. Responsibilities also include analyzing consumption and inventory data to generate accurate forecasts, preparing quantification reports and procurement schedules, and monitoring stock status and shipment performance. The STO will identify supply chain risks and implement mitigation measures to prevent stockouts and expiries. Additionally, the role involves establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) for supply chain performance monitoring, coordinating with government stakeholders and partners, and providing technical assistance and mentorship to national counterparts. The STO will also conduct data quality assessments, prepare technical reports and dashboards, and support emergency preparedness and contingency planning initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of supply chain management principles, particularly in laboratory commodities and diagnostics. Proficiency in electronic database management software and online tools is essential. The ideal candidate should have excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey technical information effectively to diverse stakeholders. A demonstrated ability to analyze complex data sets and identify trends is crucial, as is the capacity to work collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams. Sensitivity to cultural diversity and an understanding of the political and ethical issues in the health sector are also important qualifications for this role.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in laboratory sciences, Pharmacy, Public Health, Supply Chain Management, Health Logistics, or a related field is required. This educational background provides the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of laboratory services and supply chain management in the health sector.

Experience:
A minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in laboratory commodity forecasting, demand planning, or supply chain management at the national or sub-national level is required. Candidates should have experience in managing data collection and analysis related to logistics and consumption, as well as demonstrated experience in providing technical assistance in demand planning activities. Familiarity with Tanzania's health supply chain systems and laboratory commodity management is highly desirable, along with proficiency in national quantification and forecasting tools.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Kiswahili is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, but the primary requirement is strong communication skills in both English and Kiswahili to effectively engage with stakeholders and counterparts.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and may require travel of 10% to 25%. The expected hiring salary range for this role is TZS 68,000,000 - 90,000,000 annually. FHI 360 offers a competitive compensation package, including benefits that support a healthy work/life balance. The organization is committed to equal opportunity employment and safeguarding against abuse and exploitation in its programs.