PATH is an international nonprofit organization that transforms global health through innovation. We take an entrepreneurial approach to developing and delivering high-impact, low-cost solutions, from lifesaving vaccines and devices to collaborative programs with communities. Through our work in more than 70 countries, PATH and our partners empower people to achieve their full potential.
The PATH Malaria Vaccine Initiative was established to accelerate the development of malaria vaccines and catalyze timely access in endemic countries. MVI works with researchers, companies, governments, and partner organizations to accomplish its mission. The program today includes a vibrant portfolio of vaccine development partnerships, as well as communications, advocacy, and access activities preparing the ground for implementation of future vaccine. MVI’s Product Development & Access Unit (PD&A) works to ensure any successful vaccine candidate will be available and accessible to those who need them the most, as soon as possible after launch. PD&A supports planning at international, regional, and national levels to help define malaria vaccines appropriate for their intended use. We are working with countries and partners to facilitate the generation and synthesis of data needed for countries to make evidence-based decisions on the use of vaccines as part of the malaria control and elimination planning. Current country-level efforts are particularly focused on processes and analyses toward possible introduction of the advanced malaria vaccine candidate, RTS,S.
Position Description:
MVI is seeking a committed professional to join the PD&A unit as a Senior Program Officer (SPO). Reporting to the Senior Advisor, Policy and Access, s/he will support the implementation of country-level activities in Eastern and Southern Africa, working closely with representatives from country-led technical working groups, and other key malaria and Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) stakeholders within governmental and non-governmental organizations. The SPO will take a key role in representing PATH/MVI at regional and country level meetings, interfacing with policy makers, program leaders and clinical researchers across Eastern and Southern Africa.
The SPO will support formation of new technical working groups where they do not yet exist, and provide ongoing support to existing technical working groups to advance planning and strategic consultation, ensure timely sharing of tools and learnings, and coordinate technical assistance as needed. S/he will further coordinate the dissemination of key information (e.g. results from clinical trials, information about regulatory processes and communications strategies) at country and regional levels. The SPO will help to design and organize meetings of strategic value to the project and its partners, and prepare and make presentations on relevant project components. S/he will be responsible for monitoring of expenditures for relevant activities implemented by the project and its partners. The SPO will take an important role in donor reporting, including routinely monitoring performance against expected project outputs and outcomes. S/he will further participate in program development as requested.
The SPO will actively participate in a variety of coordination activities among global stakeholders and partners. S/he will further coordinate closely with PATH country offices and partners in priority countries to ensure synergy with PATH strategies and plans in particular countries.
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively with national governments, international agencies, the private sector and non-governmental organizations, in resource poor settings.
- Innovative and results-oriented approach to problem solving.
- Proven success developing and implementing strategies to inform and/or influence policies leading to introduction of new technologies in resource poor settings.
- Ability to work effectively in a collaborative work environment with strong interpersonal and facilitation skills.
- Working knowledge of policy and regulatory issues related to the introduction of new vaccines or other health innovations into public health systems in Eastern and Southern Africa.
- Ability and willingness to travel within Eastern and Southern Africa approximately 40% of the time.
- Strong oral and written communication skills.
- Fluency in English; proficiency in French is an asset.
Advanced degree in a health-related discipline, or equivalent combination of experience and education. At least 10 years of experience working with governments, national policymakers, and international organizations, including World Health Organization, ideally on preparing adoption and introduction of new vaccines or other technologies in emerging and developing country markets in Africa. Demonstrated success in project and partnership management.
Must have legal authorization to work in an East Africa (preferably Uganda or Kenya).
