Associate Director, Innovation Strategy and Execution

Job Posting Organization:
The Clinton Health Access Initiative, Inc. (CHAI) is a global health organization founded in 2002 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 by supporting governments 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. CHAI values diversity and inclusion, recognizing that its mission is best advanced by the contributions of individuals with varied experiences and backgrounds.

Job Overview:
The Associate Director, Innovation Strategy and Execution will play a crucial role in leading CHAI's Innovation portfolio, which focuses on identifying and incubating new program areas that address significant health challenges. This position involves working closely with the Vice President of Innovation to manage high-priority projects, ensuring that the portfolio runs efficiently while also contributing to strategic discussions. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving, with responsibilities ranging from drafting proposals to coordinating fundraising efforts. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in strategy consulting, operational experience, and a passion for global health. This position is designed for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is eager to learn and grow into senior leadership roles.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Associate Director will lead the most important projects within the Innovation portfolio, managing high-stakes initiatives from inception to completion. Responsibilities include scoping problems, developing actionable plans, and delivering results. The role also involves coordinating CHAI's contributions to major fundraising efforts, managing relationships with key funders, and supporting program leads during periods of rapid growth. The Associate Director will be expected to perform hands-on tasks such as drafting memos and presentations, tracking commitments to funders, and preparing materials for senior leadership meetings. Additionally, the role requires maintaining an overview of the portfolio's priorities and deadlines, ensuring that all commitments are met in a timely manner.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have a proven track record of taking ambiguous problems, structuring them, and delivering results with full ownership. A minimum of 8 years of professional experience is required, ideally with a background in management consulting or a comparable strategy role. Hands-on operational experience within an organization is essential, as is exceptional structured thinking and problem-solving ability. Strong written and verbal communication skills are necessary, along with an entrepreneurial mindset and the ability to work independently in a dynamic environment. Candidates should also be confident in using modern AI productivity tools to enhance their work.

Educational Background:
A graduate degree, such as an MBA or equivalent, is preferred but not mandatory. The educational background should support the candidate's ability to engage with complex health issues and contribute to strategic discussions effectively.

Experience:
The position requires at least 8 years of progressively responsible professional experience, including roles that demonstrate trusted responsibility and leadership. Experience in global health, international development, or philanthropy is advantageous, as is familiarity with the challenges and opportunities in these fields. Candidates with experience in a chief of staff or strategy role supporting senior executives will be particularly well-suited for this position.

Languages:
While specific language requirements are not mentioned, proficiency in English is mandatory due to the nature of the role and the need for effective communication with diverse stakeholders. Additional language skills may be beneficial, particularly in regions where CHAI operates.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time position that allows for remote work, with a preference for candidates located on the US East Coast. Regular in-person workdays will be held in Boston, and occasional international travel may be required. The role is designed for someone who is comfortable with ambiguity and is eager to contribute to the growth and success of innovative health programs.