Program Manager at The West African Centre for Public Health and Development (WACPHD)

Job Purpose

• The Program Manager will be someone with a medical degree who leverages advanced medical expertise and leadership skills to oversee the strategic planning, implementation, and evaluation of research-driven public health programs.
• This role involves high-level collaboration with healthcare professionals, researchers, stakeholders, and community organizations to ensure that health initiatives are evidence-based, effective, and aligned with the organization’s mission of advancing health equity through research and program delivery.

Key Responsibilities
Strategic Program Development and Implementation:

• Lead the strategic development and execution of research-driven public health programs that address complex community health needs and align with WACPHD's research objectives.
• Utilize advanced medical knowledge to guide program design, ensuring clinical evidence and research best practices are integrated.

Research Collaboration and Coordination:

• Collaborate closely with researchers, senior medical professionals, program staff, and the grant writer to develop and refine research proposals and health interventions.
• Facilitate high-level communication and coordination among stakeholders, including research institutions, government agencies, healthcare providers, and community organizations.

Performance Monitoring and Evaluation:

• Oversee the monitoring of program performance, track key health indicators, and conduct in-depth analyses to assess program effectiveness.
• Apply clinical expertise and research methodologies to ensure robust, evidence-based evaluations and adjustments.

Regulatory and Compliance Oversight:

• Ensure rigorous compliance with research regulations, ethical standards, and organizational policies across all program activities.

Leadership and Mentorship:

• Provide leadership and mentorship to program staff, enhancing their skills and fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

Advanced Reporting and Communication:

• Prepare and deliver comprehensive reports on research program outcomes, challenges, and recommendations to senior management and key stakeholders.
• Represent the organization in high-level public and scientific forums.

Budget and Resource Oversight:

• Work with the Finance Advisor to oversee budget management and resource allocation to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of research programs.
• Collaborate with the grant writer to secure funding and manage financial resources effectively.

Innovation and Knowledge Integration:

• Stay abreast of emerging public health research trends, policies, and innovations to drive program enhancement.
• Apply advanced medical and research insights to continually improve program effectiveness and adapt to new challenges.

Qualifications

• Medical Doctor (MD) Degree with a valid medical license
• Master’s degree in Public Health (MPH) or a related field is preferred.
• Minimum of 12 years of experience in senior program management, public health, or clinical practice, preferably in a research or development context.
• Extensive understanding of public health principles, healthcare systems, and community health issues.
• Proven track record in strategic leadership, with exceptional communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Demonstrated ability to analyse complex data, monitor program performance, and make informed, data-driven decisions.
• Experience in grant writing and fundraising is highly desirable.
• Commitment to advancing health equity and aligning with the mission of WACPHD.