Program Manager, Medical Oxygen Ecosystems

Job Posting Organization:
The Clinton Health Access Initiative, Inc. (CHAI) is a global health organization founded in 2002, dedicated to saving lives and reducing the burden of disease in low- and middle-income countries. CHAI operates in over 40 countries and employs a diverse team of individuals committed to improving health systems. The organization works closely with governments and the private sector to create sustainable health solutions, focusing on various health challenges including infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, and health system strengthening. CHAI is known for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal employment opportunities for all applicants.

Job Overview:
The Program Manager, Medical Oxygen Ecosystems, will play a crucial role in addressing the significant gap in access to medical oxygen in Zambia, which has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. This position involves transitioning Zambia's medical oxygen response from an emergency phase to a sustainable, integrated component of essential health services. The Program Manager will work closely with the Ministry of Health and various stakeholders to implement and coordinate activities across the medical oxygen ecosystem, ensuring that oxygen supply is reliable and meets the needs of patients across different health services. The role requires strategic leadership, technical expertise, and strong collaboration with government and health facility partners to strengthen the medical oxygen system in Zambia.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Oversee the planning and execution of the Oxygen Program activities in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and stakeholders, ensuring alignment with the National Medical Oxygen Strategic Plan.
• Conduct periodic assessments to update the country’s oxygen needs and inform investment quantification for medical oxygen procurement.
• Strengthen technical capacity at the Ministry of Health and health facilities for oxygen management and preventive maintenance of oxygen-generating systems.
• Lead advocacy efforts to secure government budget lines for medical oxygen and facilitate the integration of procurement under government ownership.
• Monitor the operationalization of the national liquid oxygen storage and distribution hub, ensuring alignment with project timelines.
• Develop strong relationships with key stakeholders to enhance collaboration and reduce duplication of efforts.
• Oversee program management, ensuring activities are delivered against priorities, timelines, and quality standards.
• Manage an Associate, providing mentorship and performance feedback.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Community Health, Public Health, or Social Sciences with at least 8 years of experience in the health sector.
• Advanced degree in a related field is preferred.
• Experience in capacity building and policy design in collaboration with health ministries.
• Strong analytical, organizational, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional diplomatic and interpersonal skills, capable of building professional relationships in a multicultural environment.
• Ability to multitask and adapt to fast-paced environments while maintaining efficiency and impact.
• Experience working effectively with diverse teams and willingness to travel domestically.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s Degree in Community Health, Public Health, or Social Sciences is required, with an advanced degree being an added advantage. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in health systems, public health principles, and social sciences relevant to health interventions.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of experience in the health sector, with a focus on capacity building, policy design, and implementation. Experience working with government health ministries and stakeholders is essential, along with a demonstrated ability to manage complex health programs effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and with stakeholders. Knowledge of local languages may be beneficial but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time position based in Lusaka, Zambia. The role involves significant collaboration with government entities and requires a commitment to the mission of improving health systems in Zambia. The position may involve travel within the country to engage with various health facilities and stakeholders.