Project Director

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit human development organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Established to address various interrelated development challenges, FHI 360 employs experts across multiple fields including health, education, nutrition, economic development, youth, research, technology, communication, and social marketing. The organization operates in more than 60 countries and all U.S. states and territories, showcasing its extensive reach and commitment to global health and development. The America First Global Health Strategy – FHI 360 (AFGHS-FHI 360) project is a significant initiative funded by the United States Department of State, aimed at addressing critical public health challenges in approximately 50 countries, including Cameroon, where it focuses on strengthening responses to HIV, malaria, and global health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security issues.

Job Overview:
The AFGHS-FHI 360 Cameroon Project Director is responsible for providing overall leadership, management, and strategic direction for the AFGHS-FHI 360 project in Cameroon. This role involves overseeing the implementation of the HIV and Global Health Security (GHS) portfolio, ensuring that project goals and objectives are met within the established milestones, time frames, and funding parameters. The Project Director serves as the primary point of contact for AFGHS-FHI 360 activities in Cameroon, providing technical and management leadership to ensure successful implementation of the work plan. This includes monitoring expenditures in line with the approved budget, achieving project targets, and identifying and mitigating risks. The position requires coordination with a diverse group of stakeholders, including government officials, health staff, and international development partners, to ensure effective project execution and collaboration.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Director will be accountable for directing the overall project vision, design, planning, and implementation, ensuring that all goals and objectives are accomplished within the prescribed time frame and contractual parameters. Responsibilities include establishing internal management systems for contracting and recruitment, fostering innovation for effective service delivery, and developing strategic relationships with government entities and local organizations. The Project Director will lead milestone and performance management processes, monitor progress, mitigate risks, and ensure compliance with donor requirements. They will also oversee technical and management reviews, guide capacity-building initiatives, represent the project at various levels, and contribute to proposal development for potential funding opportunities. Additionally, the Project Director will ensure a safe and equitable work environment for all personnel and support the professional development of direct reports.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess comprehensive knowledge of project management theories, concepts, and practices, along with excellent project management skills. Strong oral and written communication abilities, consultative and negotiation skills, and critical thinking capabilities are essential. The ability to motivate and collaborate with others, build positive relationships with local communities and government officials, and exercise sound judgment in decision-making is crucial for this role. Candidates should also demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving skills to effectively manage resources and complete projects successfully.

Educational Background:
A Master's Degree or its international equivalent in fields such as Communication and Social Marketing, Economic Development, Education, Health, Nutrition, Research, Technology, Youth, or a related area is required. A Project Management (PM) Certification is preferred, indicating a formal recognition of the candidate's project management expertise.

Experience:
Typically, candidates should have at least 12 years of relevant experience in project management principles and practices, including a minimum of 5 years in line management roles. Experience in managing large, complex health projects, particularly in areas such as HIV, GHS, malaria, nutrition, and health systems strengthening, is essential. Candidates should have a proven track record of establishing and maintaining positive working relationships with stakeholders, including government agencies and donor organizations. Familiarity with international donor-funded projects, especially those funded by the U.S. Government, is highly desirable, along with experience in compliance and quality assurance.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French is mandatory, with proficiency in at least one local language being a significant advantage. This linguistic capability is crucial for effective communication with diverse stakeholders and project beneficiaries.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Yaoundé, Cameroon, and is open to Cameroonian nationals and residents with independent work authorization. The expected hiring salary range for this role is between XAF 27,000,000 and 40,000,000 annually for national local hires. FHI 360 emphasizes a commitment to equal opportunity employment and safeguarding against abuse and harassment in the workplace. The organization also offers a competitive benefits package and supports professional development and work/life balance for its employees.