Job Vacancies at the Management Sciences for Health (MSH), 3rd October, 2019

The Management Sciences for Health (MSH), a global health nonprofit organization, uses proven approaches developed over 40 years to help leaders, health managers, and communities in developing nations build stronger health systems for greater health impact. We work to save lives by closing the gap between knowledge and action in public health.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

 

Job Title: Director, Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning

Job ID: 13-10836
Location: Nigeria
Grade: J
Dept/Unit: PDGGEN – Program Delivery Group
Group/Office: PDG (Program Delivery Group)
Project/Program: P000 – Proposal
Reports to: Deputy Chief of Party

Overview

  • Management Sciences for Health (MSH) is seeking a Director of Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning for a potential 2-year USAID-funded contract, to be implemented in the South South, South West and North East regions of Nigeria.
  • This project is designed to improve the quality and delivery of sustainable, high-impact, evidence-based HIV/AIDS interventions in Nigeria. Using a data-driven approach, this project will improve Nigeria’s capacity to effectively expand, coordinate, finance, and manage HIV/AIDS and TB services.
  • MSH saves lives and improves health by helping public and private organizations throughout the world to effectively manage people, medicines, money, and information. Working from more than 40 country offices and our Arlington, Virginia, and Medford, Massachusetts, US headquarters, our staff from more than 70 nations is highly regarded for its technical expertise, integrity, and commitment to making a lasting difference in health. We live our mission to save lives and improve the health of the world’s poorest and most vulnerable people by closing the gap between knowledge and action in public health.
  • This position is subject to project award and funding

Job Descriptions

  • The Director for Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning will oversee the monitoring and evaluation (M&E) system for reporting progress, and maintain reporting procedures and guidelines in compliance with USAID systems.
  • The Director of M&EL will be expected to develop a strong monitoring and evaluation plan consistent with USAID and PEPFAR results frameworks, coordinate the collection of data including conducting field visits for data validation, monitor the quality and completeness of data sets, contribute to the development of the program, and document project performance against established outputs and indicators.
  • S/he will also be responsible for building the capacity of the local, state, and federal Government of Nigeria, Ministry of Health (MOH), and other stakeholders in the collection, utilization, and dissemination of data as well as ensuring that all monitoring and data collection activities are harmonized and information is shared.
  • S/he will also assist the MOH to monitor programs and assess the robustness of implementing organizations’ data collection and M&E mechanisms. The Director will also oversee junior M&E staff and will work with partners to implement the project’s implementation research agenda.

Specific Responsibilities

  • Design and implement the Project’s M&E system in close coordination with the technical team, including the development of performance indicators, setting annual targets, monitoring project progress against annual targets, ensuring timely data collection, writing quarterly and annual reports, and liaising with the project financial team to track the budget in relation to all project results and outcomes.
  • Provide technical inputs to the technical team in order to assist in developing program goals and objectives as well as M&E tools and strategies, and provide monitoring data to strategically inform the decisions on project performance and future direction to the project.
  • Lead the conduction of a baseline study for all performance indicators that require a baseline value.
  • Develop and implement a quality improvement system for the project focusing on the systematic strengthening of data quality for all program data.
  • Support the MOH to enhance a health sector M&E framework and monitor health system strengthening interventions.
  • Provide regularly updated reports on the status of implementation, according to project goals, objectives, and indicators to the Chief of Party, USAID, PEPFAR and other program managers as required.
  • Collaborate with the project technical team in identifying project activities, processes, and/or outcomes that are worthy of documentation, and design a system for capturing lessons learned and best practices.
  • Support the production of technical briefs and other technical documents on the project accomplishments.
  • Support preparations for external and internal assessments, reviews, and/or evaluations commissioned by the donor agency and MSH throughout the implementation of the project.
  • Work with consultants and partners to implement the project’s implementation research agenda.
  • Adhere to MSH procurement integrity and institutional standards and procedures in all project management responsibilities.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience

  • A master’s degree in Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Public Health, or a related discipline.
  • At least five (5) years of demonstrated experience designing and implementing monitoring and evaluation activities for complex public health programs in Nigeria.
  • Three (3) years of managing MEL responsibilities for USG-funded programs.
  • Excellent command of monitoring and evaluation methodologies.
  • Knowledge of M&E issues related to improvements in quality integrated health services and support programs, particularly programs focusing on HIV and TB.
  • Previous experience implementing and managing a rigorous M&E system, including developing and monitoring performance monitoring plans that track performance as sub-results/results and by funding stream.
  • Knowledge of data collection protocols to ensure accurate data collection and verification is essential, as well as an ability to identify data trends and communicate this information to allow for changes in program implementation.
  • M&E experience in the health sector desired, particularly in health systems strengthening.
  • Ability to write quality reports for donors.
  • Knowledge of and experience in operational and/or implementation research experience highly desired.
  • Past experience leading and building the capacity of M&E officers, including remote, field-based staff, to meet program needs and deliverables is desired.
  • Extraordinary organizational, verbal, and written communication skills to manage project communications and disseminate project information.
  • Excellent skills in MS Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and DHIS2. Experience working with a statistical analysis software (STATA, SPSS or alike) highly desired.
  • Experience with USG/USAID/PEPFAR programs/projects and reporting requirements required.
  • Strong written and oral presentation skills and professional proficiency in English required.
  • Demonstrated ability to build consensus and navigate complex political contexts. Ability to develop effective working relationships with USAID, state and local governments, and other program partners and counterparts.
  • Previous supervisory experience highly desired
  • Willingness to travel frequently within Nigeria.


How to Apply

Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

 

Job Title: Chief of Party

Job ID: 13-10833
Location: Nigeria
Grade: K
Group/Office: PDG (Program Delivery Group)
Dept/Unit: PDGGEN – Program Delivery Group
Project/Program: P000 – Proposal
Reports to: Project Senior Manager

Overview

  • Management Sciences for Health (MSH) is seeking a Chief of Party to join a dynamic team for a potential 2-year USAID-funded contract to be implemented in the South South, South West and North East regions of Nigeria.
  • This project is designed to improve the quality and delivery of sustainable, high-impact, evidence-based HIV/AIDS interventions in Nigeria. Using a data-driven approach, this project will improve Nigeria’s capacity to effectively expand, coordinate, finance, and manage HIV/AIDS and TB services.
  • MSH saves lives and improves health by helping public and private organizations throughout the world to effectively manage people, medicines, money, and information. Working from more than 40 country offices and our Arlington, Virginia, and Medford, Massachusetts US headquarters, our staff from more than 70 nations is highly regarded for its technical expertise, integrity, and commitment to making a lasting difference in health. We live our mission to save lives and improve the health of the world’s poorest and most vulnerable people by closing the gap between knowledge and action in public health.
  • The Chief of Party leads and manages the project with full accountability and authority for the development, execution, and monitoring of the project, including vision and technical strategy, project management, documentation and communication, client(s) stakeholder(s) relationships, and coordination and synergy with other MSH projects.
  • This position is subject to project award and funding

Specific Responsibilities
Project Results:

  • Provides high quality technical and strategic leadership, managerial oversight, and administration of the project.
  • Serves as the primary project liaison from MSH to the donor and is accountable for the achievement of results, ensuring quality of services is maintained at the highest standard, and that all project objectives and deliverables are met.

Technical Strategy and Vision:

  • Develop (updates and adapts as needed) and execute annual work plans per contract/agreement requirements.
  • Ensure appropriate and timely documentation and dissemination of key results and deliverables for maximum project impact using a variety of communication strategies and media.

Project and People Management:

  • Ensure effective contract/agreement implementation in strict compliance with USAID contract/agreement clauses, policies, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  • Ensure project staffing, structure, and reporting relationships are aligned with project needs, local context, and available resources.
  • Manage and mentor the project team through regular check-ins, annual appraisals, supportive supervision, rewards, training, coaching and career development support.

Client and Other Stakeholder Relationships:

  • Build and maintain strong working relations with key internal and external stakeholders, beneficiaries, prime and subcontractors, suppliers, and partners.

Internal Coordination and Synergy:

  • Collaborate with the MSH Country Representative and participate as required in activities organized in the context of MSH Representation in country.
  • Ensure harmonious collaboration with and cost-effective use of the Country Operations Management Unit.

Qualifications and Experience

  • A minimum of a MPH, MBA, Master’s level degree in a related field, or Medicine.
  • At least 10 years of progressively responsible, related senior experience is required.
  • Demonstrated subject-matter expertise in HIV/AIDS, infectious diseases (malaria and TB), MNCH, health system strengthening, and quality improvement/quality assurance.
  • Demonstrated leadership and management abilities.
  • Prior experience and success directing similar or larger international donor-funded projects in Nigeria.
  • Demonstrated strategic planning and visioning skills.
  • Familiarity with USAID regulations and administrative procedures in the implementation of donor assisted projects required.
  • Proven record of aligning diverse, multi-level teams with the project mission and vision.
  • Track record of strong commitment to sharing knowledge, documenting experiences, supporting creative initiatives, and sharing credit.
  • Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with senior-level colleagues, particularly interacting productively, proactively, and comfortably with national and sub-national government officials and institutions, NGOs, private sector groups, USAID, CSOs, and donor organizations.
  • Demonstrated strategic agility, diplomacy, conflict management, team building, written and oral communication, and negotiation skills.
  • Professional level of oral and written fluency in English required.


How to Apply

Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

 

Job Title: Baseline Analysis Consultant

Job ID: 13-10824
Location: Nigeria
Grade: Consultant
Group/Office: PDG (Program Delivery Group)
Dept/Unit: PDGGEN – Program Delivery Group
Project/Program: A576 – PMI – S

Report
The consultancy firm will report to the following:

  • The PMI-S state coordinator in the state of assignment – Daily.
  • The PMI-S Senior M&E Advisor and Project Director at MSH/Abuja – Bi-weekly. Generally, this consultancy will be carried out under the overall guidance of the PMI-S Project Director.
  • The consultant will work closely with the Senior M&E Advisor, State Team Director, and State Coordinators.
  • The SM&E team in the MSH home office and state offices will also provide technical support to the process.

Overview

  • PMI-S is a five-year, USAID-funded malaria project in Nigeria implemented by Management Sciences for Health (MSH) with an expected coverage of eight states: Akwa Ibom, Benue, Cross River, Ebonyi, Nasarawa, Oyo, Plateau, and Zamfara. The goal of the project is to contribute to the National Malaria Elimination Program (NMEP) vision of achieving “a malaria free Nigeria” and the PMI Strategy 2015-2020 goal to further reduce malaria deaths and substantially decrease malaria morbidity toward the long-term goal of elimination.
  • This goal will be achieved through interventions aimed at enhancing both the supply of and demand for malaria-related services within a stronger health system.
  • Successful implementation of the proposed interventions is expected to result in improved coverage of quality malaria services, especially for vulnerable populations; a strengthened health system for delivering higher quality malaria services; improved demand for and use of malaria case management services; and improvements in the prevention of malaria in pregnancy.

Objectives of the Consultancy:

  • MSH is seeking an experienced and highly skilled research firm with vast experience in the latest PMI malaria programming and research to serve as a consultant and conduct baseline analysis in four PMI-S intervention states (Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Ebonyi, and Oyo).
  • The overall objective of the consultancy is to lead the design and implementation of the baseline analysis.

The goals of the baseline analysis are:

  • To assess the strengths and gaps of malaria programming in each state
  • To identify areas for strategic interventions to achieve project objectives and results

Scope of the Baseline Analysis
State level – The consultant will conduct a review and analysis of the following programmatic, management, and leadership areas related to the functions of the State Malaria Elimination Program (SMEP):

  • Program Management: Institutional organization and human resource capacity of SMEP
  • Malaria policies and guidelines: Establish the availability and use of malaria strategic documents, guidelines, standard operating procedures (SOPs), job aids, plans, manuals, and training materials for malaria case management, intermittent preventive treatment for prevention of malaria in pregnancy (IPTp), seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC), and surveillance, monitoring, and evaluation (SME).
  • Conduct a desk review of malaria policy documents, guidelines, SOPs, job aids, plans, manuals, training materials, and standards adapted to the local context by the states, to determine alignment with corresponding national documents.
  • Coordination: Review the functionality of malaria coordination and management structures at the state ministry of health (SMOH), SMEP, and state primary health care development agency (SPHCDA) including staff numbers, responsibilities, and reporting, sub-committees, and review meetings, among others. Examine current practices and identify strengths, challenges, and areas that need improvement.
  • SME: Review existing structures and systems for data collection, data analysis, data quality assurance (DQA), data interpretation, and data use at SMOH, SMEP and SPHCDA. Examine current practices and identify strengths, challenges, and areas that need improvement.
  • Conduct a review and analysis of routine and non-routine data for key state-level malaria indicators, using the District Health Information System 2 (DHIS2) and malaria survey reports to understand the performance of key malaria indicators over a period of time.
  • Private sector engagement: Document involvement of community health care providers and private sector health service providers in malaria programming by the state and local government areas (LGAs), including their roles, coordination mechanism, service delivery, and reporting.
  • Mechanism for state planning and budgeting: Review human and financial resources for malaria control, the availability of annual operational plans (AOPs), the process for developing AOPs, the quality of AOPs and their alignment with the National Malaria Strategic Plan (NMSP), the understanding of AOPs by critical members of SMEP, and the use of AOPs to guide implementation, coordination, and resource mobilization. Document sources of funding for state malaria elimination activities.
  • Existing systems for monitoring and supervision: Review systems at all levels, including state to LGA, LGA to health facility, and health facility to community levels; the availability and use of standard monitoring and supervisory checklists; reporting and feedback to lower levels; and follow-up on action points.
  • Gender considerations: Document any malaria-specific gender programming practices and opportunities for mainstreaming gender in malaria.

Local Government Area level (two LGAs per senatorial district):

  • Malaria policies and guidelines: Establish availability and use of malaria policy documents, guidelines, SOPs, tools, job aids, and training materials in selected LGA health departments and selected primary health care centers (PHCs).
  • LGA-level malaria coordination: Review the functionality of malaria program coordination and management structures at selected LGA health department and malaria units, including staff strength, responsibilities and reporting, sub-committees, review meetings, among others. Examine the current practice, identify strengths, challenges and areas that need improvement.
  • SME: Review existing structures and systems for data collection, data analysis, data quality assurance (DQA), data interpretation, and data use at selected LGAs. Examine current practices and identify strengths, challenges, and areas that need improvement.
  • Mechanism for state planning and budgeting: Review human and financial resources for malaria control, the availability of LGA malaria plans, the process for developing the malaria plans and alignment with state malaria AOP, and the use of LGA malaria plans to guide implementation, coordination, and resource mobilization. Document sources of funding for LGA malaria elimination activities, including support to PHC facilities.

Methodology:

  • The consultancy firm may utilize mixed methods and triangulation of sources/data to ensure the credibility of key findings and recommendations from the baseline analysis.
  • Desk review to document the availability and use of national malaria policies and guidelines and their use in the state, and review of these documents to ascertain the alignment of policies and guidelines adapted to the local context by states with the respective national documents.
  • Analysis of malaria DHIS 2 and survey data, data triangulation, and data disaggregation by gender, where applicable.
  • Small group discussions and individual interviews with relevant state and LGA personnel
  • Other tools: The consultancy firm may recommend other tools as appropriate for the analysis.
  • The consultancy firm will be required to pretest baseline analysis tools to help determine the relevance, clarity, and substance of analysis questions and the amount of time needed to complete them.

Specific Responsibilities

  • Develop a work plan with indicative timelines for the assignment.
  • Lead the development of protocol and data collection tools for the baseline analysis.
  • Lead the recruitment and training of research assistants and data collectors.
  • Lead the process of conducting introductory meetings at the state and LGA levels.
  • Lead the selection of respondents for small group discussions and individual interviews with relevant state and LGA personnel.
  • Lead key informant interviews and focus group discussions with selected government officials at the state and LGA levels.
  • Lead desk reviews of malaria policy guidelines, SOPs, job aids, manuals, annual operational plans, work plans, annual reports, and analysis reports at the SMEP, SMOH, SPHCDA, and selected LGAs.
  • Lead the analysis of state level malaria service data for reportable program indicators from DHIS 2.
  • Review and/or analyze state-specific non-routine data on malaria service indicators from nationally representative household surveys (e.g. DHS, MIS).
  • Collate and analyze qualitative and quantitative baseline analysis data.
  • Develop a draft report of the baseline analysis and deliver it to the PMI-S Project Director.
  • Receive corrections from PMI-S and revise the report.
  • Submit the finalized report of the baseline analysis to PMI-S.

Consultancy Tasks and Deliverables
Deliverables – Specific day for completion after contract signing:

  • Submission of a detailed work plan and budget for the analysis with indicative timelines and responsible persons – Day 3
  • Development of baseline analysis protocol and data collection tools, and approval of draft tools by MSH – Day 4
  • Conduct a pre-test of data collection tools in Nasarawa state – Day 7
  • Submission of a report of pre-testing of data collection tools to MSH, and review of the tools based on the results of the pre-test -Day 10
  • MSH to review and approve final data collection tools – N/A
  • Commence field work – data collection at state and LGA level – Day 15
  • Complete field work data collection at state and LGA level – Day 30
  • Development and submission of a report to MSH on finalization of field work data collection – Day 32
  • Development of a detailed draft report of the baseline analysis, and submission to MSH for review and comments – Day 37
  • MSH team review draft report and share comments with consultant – N/A
  • Consultancy firm to update report based on MSH comments – Day 40
  • Submission of final report by firm and approval by MSH, including a PowerPoint presentation summarizing the key findings and recommendations of the analysis. – Day 45

Qualifications of Consultancy Firm

  • Evidence of registration of consultancy firm with the Corporate Affairs Commission (as may be applicable)
  • Experience in malaria research
  • Evidence of similar consultancy jobs successfully completed in the last 1-3 years
  • Demonstrated evidence of good analytical, presentation, and reporting skills
  • Excellent interpersonal, multicultural, and team-building skills
  • Ability to respond to comments and questions in a timely, appropriate manner
  • Ability to write high-quality, clear, and concise reports in English
  • Excellent organizational skills – detail-oriented and accurate
  • Demonstrated evidence of skills in data analysis, data visualization, data interpretation, and data use
  • Demonstrated understanding of the importance of gender in malaria data
  • Comfortable working in teams as well as acting independently in the implementation of specific tasks, multitasking and prioritizing, working under pressure, and meeting deadlines
  • Familiarity with, and understanding of, USAID procedures and processes
  • Experience working with, and understanding of, government ministries, departments and agencies, particularly at the state level
  • Knowledge and understanding of the local political, economic, and social context in the baseline analysis states
  • Experience working on similar assignments at the national or state level will be an added advantage

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

 

Job Title: Deputy Chief of Party/Technical Director

Job ID: 13-10835
Location: Nigeria
Grade: J
Dept/Unit: PDGGEN – Program Delivery Group
Group/Office: PDG (Program Delivery Group)
Project/Program:P000 – Proposal
Reports to: Chief of Party

Overview

  • Management Sciences for Health (MSH) is seeking a Deputy Chief of Party/Technical Director for a potential 2-year USAID-funded contract to be implemented in the South South, South West and North East regions of Nigeria.
  • This project is designed to improve the quality and delivery of sustainable, high-impact, evidence-based HIV/AIDS interventions in Nigeria. Using a data-driven approach, this project will improve Nigeria’s capacity to effectively expand, coordinate, finance, and manage HIV/AIDS and TB services.
  • This position is subject to project award and funding

Job Descriptions

  • MSH saves lives and improves health by helping public and private organizations throughout the world to effectively manage people, medicines, money, and information. Working from more than 40 country offices and our Arlington, Virginia, and Medford, Massachusetts, US headquarters, our staff from more than 70 nations is highly regarded for its technical expertise, integrity, and commitment to making a lasting difference in health. We live our mission to save lives and improve the health of the world’s poorest and most vulnerable people by closing the gap between knowledge and action in public health.
  • This position will be responsible for overseeing management and technical operations, ensuring that staffing is aligned with the project’s vision, goals, and plans to achieve program results.
  • With guidance and support from the Chief of Party (COP), the Deputy Chief of Party (DCOP)/Technical Director will coordinate the provision of technical services and harmonize efforts and maximize synergy and integration between project program areas and technical units.
  • Like the COP and all other senior staff, s/he will set a positive tone for the entire project and inspire staff to apply results-based approaches for timely delivery of services to the clients we serve.

Specific Responsibilities

  • Provide technical leadership and managerial oversight for the project and ensure the efficient implementation of project activities and the timely reporting of those activities to USAID and MSH headquarters.
  • Coordinate collaboration with partners, donors, clients and stakeholders, including MSH headquarters. Maintain the MSH partnership in such a way that ensures high performance, engenders trust and respect, and builds USAID’s confidence in MSH’s ability to get the job done.
  • Promote a team approach that emphasizes high level performance, creative approaches, review and analysis of data, the achievement of project goals and results, and a collegial approach that is focused on assisting one another to succeed for project staff in Nigeria, as well as support team members in the Home Office.
  • When appropriate, act in place of the COP.
  • Advise the COP in alignment of human resources with project work plans and emerging SOW from the donors, MSH, and partners, including on external sourcing of human resources and consultants.
  • The DCOP will set direction and coordinate annual work plan development, implementation, and review. S/he will ensure alignment with MOH and USAID frameworks and strategies
  • S/he will direct efforts to write concept notes and new programs to address emerging health and programming challenges identified by donors, host countries or through the work we do.
  • Contribute to the project knowledge management system .
  • Work in close collaboration with the MSH Country Representative(s) and Country Operations Management Unit (COMUs) to ensure coordinated and effective operational support for the project and for MSH within the various countries and the region.
  • Serve as a member of the Nigeria Leadership Team. With the COMU Director, adapt and implement management systems with standard operating procedures to administer all activities funded by the agreement.

Qualifications and Experience

  • MD with Master’s level or above in Public Health, Epidemiology, or a related field is required.
  • A minimum of seven (7) years’ experience working as a senior level manager experience working on public health programs in developing countries.
  • In depth experience in HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, care, and support of PMTCT, HIV/TB, OVCs, and health systems strengthening.
  • Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with senior-level colleagues, particularly interacting productively, proactively, and comfortably with government agencies, NGOs, private sector groups, USAID, PEPFAR, and other donor organizations.
  • Demonstrated experience in program management and administration, and contract compliance. Experience with USAID projects is required.
  • Must have a proven track record of building teams and fostering collaboration in order to achieve goals, meet milestones, and produce high quality written qualitative, quantitative, and narrative deliverables. Familiarity with USAID regulations and administrative procedures in the implementation of donor assisted projects.
  • Track record of strong commitment to sharing knowledge, documenting experiences, supporting creative initiatives, and sharing credit.
  • Demonstrated strategic agility, diplomacy, conflict management, team building, written and oral communication, and negotiation skills.
  • Fluency in English required (oral and written).
  • Willingness to travel within Nigeria.


How to Apply

Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

 

Job Title: Communications Lead, MSH Nigeria

Job ID: 13-10714
Location: Nigeria-Abuja
Group/Office: COM (Communications)
Dept/Unit: COMGEN – Communications
Project/Program: A000 – None Specified
Reports To: Communications Manager
Grade: I

Overview

  • The Communications Lead will be responsible for developing and leading communication strategies for MSH in Nigeria to grow the profile of MSH and its projects, positioning MSH as a leading implementer and source of information about Nigeria’s health system improvements. Working directly with both MSH Nigeria Leadership and the U.S.-based communications team, this position will help define and advance key communications initiatives that increase MSH’s position within the global development market.
  • A primary focus for the Communications Lead will be to support MSH Projects including MSH Nigeria Global Fund activities, creating, implementing, and managing communication strategies and activities that contribute to program success and position MSH for future growth. In addition, s/he will be in charge of overseeing external communications for MSH Nigeria, collaborating with country leadership, technical staff, and home office staff to advance the company’s position with relevant stakeholders and create a compelling dialogue of MSH’s brand to motivate action and improve impact. The Communications Lead will also, as required, provide support regionally, such as building the communications capacity in MSH country offices in West and Central Africa.
  • S/he will engage with key stakeholders including federal and state-level government agencies; USAID, Global Fund, World Bank, and other donors; and local implementing partners including global organizations, private, and civil society, on issues related to communication and collaborative learning and action.

Specific Responsibilities
Plan, produce, and deliver project communications content (50%):

  • Define donor-focused communication, documentation, and dissemination strategies for MSH Projects including Global Fund activities in Nigeria, in collaboration with project and country leadership.
  • Oversee and produce content to meet communications and positioning objectives, coordinating closely with project staff. Products and activities may include print and online publications, events, media, videos, photos, presentations, social media content, and other materials as needed.
  • Liaise with donor and key stakeholders on communication activities and efforts, ensuring compliance with donor expectations, branding, and marking policies, and reporting requirements.

Manage MSH Nigeria communications (40%):

  • Drive MSH Nigeria’s communication strategy to support broader, corporate communication goals, increase brand awareness and engagement
  • Lead country communication activities including the development of corporate products and management of media relations and external engagements, serving as brand ambassador for MSH Nigeria
  • Support the development of an organizational culture and brand that promotes accountability and high performance
  • Strengthen communications capacity in the country, projects, and/or regional offices

Support MSH Regional Communications (10%):

  • Travel to other MSH countries in Africa to help with building communications capacity of local staff, developing communication strategies and helping implement project communications as necessary.

Qualifications and Experience
Education:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Communications, Public Health, or other related disciplined – Required
  • Master’s Degree in a relevant field of study – Preferred

Experience:

  • 6 years of relevant experience with a Bachelor’s degree, 4 years with a Master’s degree – Required
  • Demonstrated success in developing communications campaigns and programs, preferably with international public health and/or development programs – Preferred
  • Demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with donors, stakeholders, partners, and project staff at all levels – Preferred
  • Experience with USAID programs/projects strongly preferred – Preferred

Knowledge and Skills:

  • Excellent writing skills, with ability to convey complex technical information in clear, compelling language without technical jargon.
  • Understanding of strategic communications, including leading development and implementation of strategic communications plans.
  • Strong knowledge of global public health issues including HIV, Malaria, and Tuberculosis.
  • Strong familiarity with emerging communications trends, social media, multi-media and multi-platform storytelling, and web content creation and management; photography and basic design/layout skills a plus.
  • Strong editorial skills, including ability to accurately proofread and review documents for language, layout, and formatting consistency.
  • English fluency required, including speaking, writing, understanding, and reading. French fluency preferred.

Competencies:

  • Independent worker who is self-starting and enthusiastic with proven ability to take ownership for results.
  • Strong multi-tasking, organizational, problem-solving, and time management skills, including ability to assess priorities and work gracefully under pressure with multiple deadlines.
  • Demonstrated ability to work as an effective team member in a complex and fast-paced environment.
  • Demonstrated ability to take initiative, to work proactively and independently, and to adapt creatively to changing circumstances in low-resource contexts.
  • Able to work with senior technical staff to understand their area of expertise, then convey the technical and complex concepts in a clear and understandable way to diverse audiences.
  • Demonstrated good judgment for decision-making.
  • Demonstrated competency for managing projects through to successful completion with attention to detail and quality
  • Ability to make connections among colleagues and stakeholders across projects and technical areas to ensure maximum visibility and knowledge exchange of key technical approaches and lessons
  • Commitment to MSH vision, mission, and values
  • Able to create effective messages on wide variety of topics.

Physical Demands:

  • Keyboard use, Pulling drawers, Lifting papers <10lbs.
  • Availability to travel up to 20% of time.


Method of Application

Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online

 

Job Title: Director, Finance and Operations

Job ID: 13-10834
Location: Nigeria
Grade: J
Dept/Unit: PDGGEN – Program Delivery Group
Group/Office: PDG (Program Delivery Group)
Project/Program: P000 – Proposal
Reports to: Chief of Party

Overview

  • Management Sciences for Health (MSH) is seeking a Director of Finance and Operations for a potential 2-year USAID-funded contract to be implemented in the South South, South West and North East regions of Nigeria.
  • This project is designed to improve the quality and delivery of sustainable, high-impact, evidence-based HIV/AIDS interventions in Nigeria. Using a data-driven approach, this project will improve Nigeria’s capacity to effectively expand, coordinate, finance, and manage HIV/AIDS and TB services.
  • MSH saves lives and improves health by helping public and private organizations throughout the world to effectively manage people, medicines, money, and information. Working from more than 40 country offices and our Arlington, Virginia, and Medford, Massachusetts, US headquarters, our staff from more than 70 nations is highly regarded for its technical expertise, integrity, and commitment to making a lasting difference in health. We live our mission to save lives and improve the health of the world’s poorest and most vulnerable people by closing the gap between knowledge and action in public health.
  • This position is subject to project award and funding

Job Descriptions

  • The Director of Finance and Operations (DFO) reports to the Chief of Party (COP) and works closely with the project leadership team to provide high-level financial management and operations leadership, and contract and grant management support.
  • S/he ensures that financial and operational functions support the timely and effective implementation of the project’s technical scope of work.
  • S/he provides counsel to help project leadership ensure that resources are allocated and used in compliance with contractual requirements, applicable regulations, and appropriate standards and procedures.
  • The DFO will liaise with the project leadership team, local partners, USAID, and MSH’s headquarters regarding any aspects of program implementation, contractual, risk management, cost share, governance and all other matters related to finance and operations.
  • S/he will work together with project leadership team to ensure that all expenditures, payment, procurement, and vehicle management are carried out in accordance with USAID and MSH standards and regulations.
  • The DFO provides authoritative leadership on all budget, expenditure monitoring, financial reporting and contract matters to ensure timely and effective implementation of the program’s activities in Nigeria.
  • The Director of Finance and Operations will oversee the financial management for all project activity in Nigeria. This includes oversight of procurement, grants, construction, logistics, human resources, accounting and finance, and records. This individual will be responsible for managing the contract budget and preparing financial reports for submission to USAID.
  • S/he will ensure funds expended are compliant with USG regulations and policies.
  • S/he will implement fraud mitigation practices and ensure systems and processes are implemented effectively to support implementation of the award.
  • This position is subject to project award and funding

Qualifications and Experience

  • A Master’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or closely related discipline, and professional qualification in accounting (equivalent to CPA).
  • Thorough knowledge of USG financial reporting and compliance requirements.
  • Strong leadership, mentoring, management, planning, analytical, and organizational skills demonstrated by ability to work both independently and within a team, assess priorities, and manage a variety of activities with attention to detail.
  • Proven leadership and capacity in negotiation and conflict management.
  • Demonstrated experience to provide technical assistance to organization and conduct trainings.
  • Excellent analytical, oral, and written communication skills with fluency in English. Proficient computer skills.
  • Experience in maintaining excellent communication with Headquarters.
  • At least seven (7) years’ experience in administrative and financial management of large, complex projects in Nigeria, of which at least five (5) years were with USG-funded activities.
  • Experience in the management of USG funded projects and a track record in developing and managing large budgets, analyzing spending against budget, and internal and external reporting is required.
  • Significant experience with USG-funded projects preferably in Nigeria with regional field experience strongly desirable, USAID experience highly desirable.
  • Ability to travel.

 

Specific Responsibilities
Financial Management:

  • Lead program annual budget development process that includes managing the annual work plan, life-of-project, and activity budgets, and ensuring compliance of program expenditures with approved budgets; ensure the consistency, inclusion, and accuracy of costs, and that they comply with agreed policy and practices, and work with staff in developing budgets for technical activities as necessary. Revise overall and sub-budgets as needed throughout the work plan year.
  • Maintain systems for program budget monitoring and tracking that include financial and contractual data. Provide routine pipeline analyses to COP and USAID. Also, provide any ad hoc reports requested by USAID or PEPFAR. In addition, perform routine financial analysis on program expenditures, documenting and monitoring overall performance, analyzing trends, identifying gaps to ensure efficient and sound project management.
  • Responsible for coordination of contract management activities. Work with program staff, home office, and partners to draft, manage, and monitor implementation of contracts. Provide routine progress reports to program management team.
  • Serve as a local office lead with MSH headquarters for preparation of budgets and budget amendments to be submitted to USAID. Submission to the USAID officer shall be reviewed by the MSH contracts officer or Senior Contracts officer prior to submission.
  • Monitor adjustments to the annual budget whenever required.
  • Prepare monthly budget monitoring reports for the project, flagging exceptions for management action.
  • Coordinate monthly requests of funds, based on budget and cash flow projections, to ensure the program has all the necessary funds for the operations.
  • Manage donor drawdowns ensuring that cash being requested & received from the donor is spent in a timely manner.
  • Ensure all program staff are trained on USAID Rules and Regulations and compliance with the Cooperative Agreement or Contract.
  • Manage the donor drawdowns ensuring that cash being requested & received from the donor is spent in a timely manner.
  • Manage MSH business systems effectively ensuring timely closure of the accounts and subsequent timely dissemination of monthly financial budgets vs actuals reports to budget holders. The DFO will prepare regular exception reports, identify gaps, and ensure timely disclosure of potential risks for management action.

Grants Management:

  • Supervise grant and contract administration functions. Supervise the grant management team for the project.
  • Correspond as necessary with grantees, local subcontractors, and MSH Home Office.
  • Lead the design of the grants program; make recommendations to the Chief of Party for the selection of the grant instruments.
  • Manage the development of the Request for Applications; determine appropriate deadlines and scope of work. Collaborate with the Corporate Contract Office in the development and revision of all grant templates.
  • Participate and be a voting member of the selection committee. Prepare, present, and negotiate grants; amend as needed.
  • Document the process by which grantees are selected for awards; notify applicants and other stakeholders of award decisions.
  • Conduct pre-award surveys of the grantees and complete capacity building plans and compliance monitoring plans for each grantee.
  • Oversee compliance with the terms and conditions of the grants. Provide technical assistance to grantees to build their capacity.
  • Monitor grantees’ compliance with the terms and conditions of the grant and the grantees’ policies and procedures.
  • Keep abreast of, interpret, and provide training and guidance to project staff and grantees on all donor regulations and policies (including but not limited to Circulars A-110, A-122). Educate program staff and grantees on agreement compliance and operational topics.
  • Approve invoices and payments to grantees. Supervise all aspects of grant close out.

Compliance and Risk Management:

  • Ensure that strong internal control systems are in place, and that all staff in country understand MSH’s Code of Conduct and MSH’s Zero Tolerance practice.
  • Ensure that systems are in place to ensure that operations are managed and that staff act in full compliance with local laws, comply with the terms and conditions of contract/award and donor requirements, local law, and comply with MSH policies and standard operating procedures. Systems are in place to:
  • Ensure that appropriate staff members are aware of and understand laws, contract/award and donor requirements, and MSH policies and procedures
  • Monitor compliance and ensure appropriate segregation of duty in all procurement and payment activities from initiation to final payment and documentation.
  • Assist the Chief of Party to conduct regular and thorough operational risk assessments in country, and to monitor success of risk mitigation and risk control activities.
  • Coordinate execution of financial reviews or audits, and ensure timely follow up to review or audit conclusions and recommendations in close collaboration with the project team.

Administration and Operations:

  • Provides administrative supervision to the project specific support staff and is accountable for their performance management (including regular results, check-ins, formal appraisals, supportive supervision, rewards, training, coaching, and carrier development support).
  • Ensure appropriate segregation of duty in all procurement and payment activities from initiation to final payment and document within all MSH offices in country.
  • Manage purchase of commercial goods and services in accordance with the delegation from corporate contract office in HQ.
  • Review and approve purchase orders ensuring correct procurement processes & procedures have been followed in line with MSH and donor regulations.
  • Assess staff capacity and determine needs for staff capacity building and development to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the teams in country, including in satellite offices.
  • In liaison with the project leadership team, coordinate execution of internal/external financial, operations, and program reviews or audits, and ensure timely follow up to review or audit conclusions and recommendations.
  • Manage MSH offices and facilities, including lease negotiations and property insurance, where required.
  • Manage general office services, including cleaning and maintenance.
  • Manage Information services.
  • Oversee property and asset management, including maintaining inventories and asset registers.
  • Oversee obtainment of local insurance as required, inspection, registration and operations for all MSH vehicles in country.
  • Oversee dispatching and scheduling of share MSH vehicles and drivers or commercial transportation.
  • Monitor local security and maintain an emergency and security plan, including emergency preparedness and strategies for maintaining operations.

General:

  • Ensure project actions are governed by the highest standards of personal and business conduct as stipulated in policy guidelines.
  • Contribute to maintaining teamwork, discipline sound work relationships and productivity.
  • Ensure that unit staff charges their time to the different project activities in a manner which accurately reflects their level of effort.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online