The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is driven by the profound conviction that every life holds equal worth. Across the globe, the foundation strives to empower individuals to lead healthy, fulfilling lives. In developing nations, it concentrates its efforts on bolstering healthcare systems and providing pathways out of hunger and destitution.
Meanwhile, in the United States, the foundation endeavors to ensure that all individuals, especially those with limited resources, have access to the opportunities essential for success in education and life. Headquartered in Seattle, the foundation is overseen by CEO Sue Desmond-Hellmann and co-chair William H. Gates Sr., guided by the vision of Bill and Melinda Gates alongside Warren Buffett.
Now, onto the exciting opportunity at hand:
Job Title: Senior Program Officer - Polio Eradication
Job Requisition ID: B020360
Location: Abuja, Nigeria
Job type: Full time
About the Team
Joining the Polio Team at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation means stepping into a pivotal role, especially with the recent unveiling of the 2022-2026 global strategy at the World Health Assembly. This team collaborates closely with partners of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), alongside governmental bodies, donors, and other stakeholders, to craft and execute strategies aimed at eradicating polio worldwide.
At the core of our team's ethos lies the belief that our collective energy, cohesive teamwork, inspired leadership, and inclusive environment are the cornerstones of our success. The foundation's leadership is deeply committed to our mission, providing guidance, support, and fostering engagement every step of the way.
Job Description
As a pivotal member of the Polio Outbreak team, the Senior Program Officer - Polio Eradication will play a crucial role in strengthening the foundation's partnerships with key stakeholders such as the WHO, UNICEF, CDC, Rotary International, and Gavi, as well as national polio eradication programs in Nigeria.
The primary focus will be on disrupting variant poliovirus transmission by leveraging the foundation's assets to enhance the quality of supplementary immunization activities, bolster acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) surveillance and routine immunization, and foster an enabling environment for the adoption of innovative tools and strategies to expedite polio eradication.
The ideal candidate will demonstrate a passion for public health programming, particularly in emergency contexts, possess adept skills in managing complex partnerships, and have a proven track record of driving tangible, time-bound outcomes. Exceptional operational and project management skills, coupled with outstanding interpersonal abilities to engage stakeholders at all levels, will be paramount for success in this role.
Key Responsibilities
- Collaborate with foundation teams in Seattle, international development partners, and governmental bodies in Nigeria to execute national and state-level strategies aimed at eradicating polio.
- Identify, develop, and support the implementation of initiatives in Nigeria to enhance the quality of supplementary immunization activities and AFP surveillance, with a focus on specific regions such as Kano and Kaduna states.
- Partner with state and local government administrations, security forces, and other stakeholders to devise strategies for improving immunization services in areas affected by security and conflict.
- Participate in technical reviews of program operations, surveillance systems, and community engagement efforts to enhance family and community participation in immunization activities.
- Provide input on resource allocation for polio eradication efforts at the state and local levels.
Requirements
- MPH or equivalent post-secondary degree in Public Health, International Development, Business Administration, or a related field.
- Proven track record in public health program management and implementation.
- Strong relationship-building skills with policymakers and development partners in Nigeria or similar developing country contexts.
- Experience working in Nigeria preferred.
- Familiarity with immunization and/or polio eradication efforts in Nigeria or other developing countries.
- Proficiency in influencing the effective implementation of public health programs leading to demonstrable health outcomes.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Willingness to travel domestically and internationally, up to 50%.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should click here to apply.
Application Deadline: 26th June, 2024
Join us in our mission to eradicate polio and make a lasting impact on global health!
