Purpose of Job
The Regional Coordinator – Technical Programs serves as a senior technical authority, tasked with overseeing and directing Africa CDC’s foundational technical programs and initiatives through the Regional Coordinating Centre. This role delivers advanced technical leadership, facilitates the uniform execution of Africa CDC strategies across Member States, and ensures the cohesive integration of surveillance, laboratory systems, preparedness and response efforts, and workforce development initiatives at the regional level.
The position will also facilitate the integration and strengthening of the Africa Health Security and Sovereignty Agenda (AHS) pillars—including digital health, Public Financial Management, and Supply Chain/African Pooled Procurement Mechanism (PPM)—across Member States within the Regional Collaborating Centre (RCC).
The position reports to the RCC Leadership and collaborates closely with technical divisions at Africa CDC Headquarters.
Oversee key operational tasks, ensuring all processes are executed in compliance with established protocols and industry standards. Facilitate cross-departmental collaboration to streamline workflows and enhance overall productivity. Develop and implement strategic initiatives to optimize performance, drive continuous improvement, and achieve organizational objectives. Monitor progress through regular evaluations and provide actionable feedback to support team development. Manage resources efficiently, balancing cost-effectiveness with quality outcomes to meet stakeholder expectations. Uphold strict adherence to safety regulations and ethical guidelines in all activities.
The Regional Coordinator will be responsible for overseeing and managing operations within a designated geographic area, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and objectives. This role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams to implement strategic initiatives, monitor performance metrics, and address any regional challenges. Additionally, the incumbent will supervise local staff, allocate resources efficiently, and maintain compliance with company policies and industry regulations. Strong leadership, analytical, and communication skills are essential, along with a proven track record in regional management or a related field. Proficiency in data analysis tools and experience with budget oversight are also required to drive operational excellence and sustainable growth.
Provide seasoned technical direction and expert strategic advice to steer projects and initiatives toward successful outcomes.
Transform Africa CDC’s continental strategies, frameworks, and guidelines into region-specific technical implementation plans and standard operating procedures.
Offer specialized technical guidance to RCC leadership and Member States regarding surveillance systems, laboratory operations, emergency preparedness and response strategies, antimicrobial resistance initiatives, and targeted disease control measures.
Conduct comprehensive technical evaluations, including situation analyses, risk assessments, and gap analyses, to shape regional priorities and justify investment proposals.
We are seeking a professional with expertise in surveillance systems, laboratory operations, and information management platforms to ensure comprehensive data collection, processing, and analysis. The ideal candidate will oversee the integration and maintenance of these systems, guaranteeing seamless functionality while adhering to regulatory standards. Responsibilities include monitoring system performance, troubleshooting technical issues, and implementing upgrades to enhance efficiency and security. Strong analytical skills and proficiency in relevant software are essential, along with the ability to collaborate across departments to support organizational objectives.
Oversee the development, execution, and enhancement of integrated disease surveillance and response (IDs) systems and event-based surveillance initiatives across the region.
You will facilitate the development and enhancement of regional laboratory networks, reference laboratories, and quality management systems to ensure optimal performance.
Advocate for the adoption of digital health solutions, data integration platforms, and interoperable systems to enable seamless real-time data collection, analysis, and visualization.
Produce and disseminate epidemiological reports, bulletins, and risk assessments with high-quality standards on a consistent basis.
Emergency Preparedness and Response roles involve developing and implementing strategies to mitigate risks, ensuring organizational readiness for unforeseen events, and coordinating effective responses to emergencies. Responsibilities include conducting thorough risk assessments, creating comprehensive emergency plans, and organizing regular training sessions to enhance staff preparedness. Additionally, these positions require collaboration with internal teams and external agencies, maintaining up-to-date emergency protocols, and overseeing drills to evaluate response effectiveness. Candidates must possess strong analytical skills, the ability to manage high-pressure situations, and prior experience in emergency management or a related field. Proficiency in risk assessment tools, emergency response software, and regulatory compliance is essential.
Contribute to the creation, evaluation, and refinement of regional and national multihazard emergency preparedness and response plans, ensuring alignment with the International Health Regulations (IHR) 2005 and Africa CDC frameworks.
Oversee the technical components of emergency operations across regions, encompassing risk assessment, incident management, surge deployment, field investigations, and post-incident evaluations.
Support the ongoing maintenance and operational readiness of regional rapid response teams and the public health emergency workforce.
Maintain a regional outbreak readiness dashboard that tracks surveillance signals, laboratory capacity, workforce availability, emergency operations’ capacity, stockpiles, and surge readiness.
Assist in the swift deployment of RCC technical support resources in response to outbreaks and public health crises to ensure timely intervention.
Coordinate cross-border preparedness and response efforts in collaboration with Member States, Regional Economic Communities (RCS), National Public Health Institutes (APHIS), and other pertinent stakeholders.
Facilitate post-incident evaluations, ongoing performance assessments, simulated training drills, and the execution of corrective action initiatives.
Oversee a regional outbreak readiness dashboard, tracking surveillance indicators, laboratory capabilities, workforce deployment, emergency operations’ capacity, stockpiles, and surge preparedness.
Provide immediate assistance to rapidly deploy RCC technical support resources in response to outbreaks and public health emergencies.
Collaborate with Member States, Regional Economic Communities (RCS), National Public Health Institutes (APHIS), and other pertinent partners to synchronize cross-border preparedness and response initiatives.
Facilitate structured evaluations through after-action and intra-action reviews, conduct simulation exercises, and oversee the implementation of corrective action plans.
The role focuses on enhancing organizational capabilities and strengthening the skills of the workforce to drive sustainable growth and performance. Responsibilities include designing and implementing training programs, identifying skill gaps, and fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development. Requirements entail expertise in instructional design, strong project management skills, and the ability to collaborate across departments to align development initiatives with strategic objectives. The ideal candidate should demonstrate a proven track record in workforce training, change management, and measurable impact on employee productivity and engagement.
Design and implement technical regional training initiatives, encompassing the Field Epidemiology Training Program (FTP), laboratory training, infection prevention and control (IPC), and emergency management systems.
Facilitate Member States in embedding sustainable professional development and competency-based training initiatives that are fully aligned with the frameworks established by Africa CDC.
Offer guidance and support in technical mentorship, establish twinning partnerships, and foster south-south collaboration between national public health institutes (APHIS) and laboratories.
Program Management, Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E), and Quality Assurance encompass the strategic oversight, systematic assessment, and rigorous validation of initiatives to ensure alignment with objectives, adherence to standards, and continuous improvement. These functions involve planning, coordinating, and supervising project activities, tracking progress through data-driven evaluations, and implementing measures to uphold excellence and compliance with established benchmarks.
Spearhead the technical work planning, execution, and oversight of results-based management and monitoring and evaluation (M&E) for RCC technical programs.
Develop and implement technical standards, performance indicators, and dashboards while maintaining rigorous quality assurance for all technical deliverables produced by the RCC.
Prepare technical reports, donor reports, and documentation of best practices and lessons learned to support organizational transparency and accountability.
We facilitate technical collaboration and cultivate strategic alliances to ensure seamless project execution and innovation alignment. This role involves managing technical partnerships, coordinating cross-functional efforts, and fostering relationships with external stakeholders to drive shared objectives. Responsibilities include negotiating agreements, aligning technical standards, and ensuring compliance with industry best practices while maintaining high standards of quality and efficiency. Strong communication skills and a proactive approach are essential to bridge gaps between teams and external partners, ensuring mutual success and sustained growth.
Act as the primary technical liaison for the RCC, engaging with National Public Health Institutes (APHIS), Ministries of Health, Regional Economic Communities (RCS), the World Health Organization (WHO), United Nations agencies, academic institutions, and implementing partners.
Facilitate the collaboration of regional technical working groups and communities of practice focused on surveillance, laboratory systems, emergency preparedness, and related thematic domains.
Contribute specialized technical expertise to regional policy discussions, frameworks, and guideline development processes led by Africa CDC, the AU, or affiliated partners.
Resource Mobilization and Innovation (Technical Focus) involves identifying and securing funding opportunities, developing strategic partnerships, and implementing cutting-edge solutions to advance organizational objectives. This role requires expertise in grant writing, financial forecasting, and stakeholder engagement, along with a deep understanding of technical methodologies. Responsibilities include designing innovative funding strategies, leveraging technology to optimize resource allocation, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to drive sustainable growth and impact. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in data analysis, project management, and a proven track record of securing competitive funding in relevant sectors.
Offer technical expertise to develop concept notes, project proposals, and investment cases aimed at enhancing regional public health systems.
Develop and champion cutting-edge solutions, including tools, technologies, and methodologies, to enhance surveillance, diagnostics, data utilization, and emergency response capabilities.
Offer assistance to country pillar leads in fulfilling their responsibilities.
Execute additional responsibilities as directed by RCC Leadership.
Digital Health and Innovation involves spearheading the development and implementation of cutting-edge technological solutions to revolutionize healthcare delivery. This role requires a deep understanding of digital health trends, regulatory compliance, and data security measures to ensure the seamless integration of innovative tools while safeguarding patient information. Candidates must demonstrate expertise in health informatics, software development, and project management, along with a proven ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to drive impactful change. Responsibilities include designing scalable health IT systems, optimizing workflows through automation, and fostering partnerships with stakeholders to enhance clinical outcomes and operational efficiency.
Serve as the primary liaison in Africa for the Africa CDC Digital Health and Innovation agenda within the RCC.
Assist Member States in developing, executing, and expanding digital health initiatives focused on surveillance, laboratory operations, case management, community reporting, training, and tell-mentoring.
Utilize established regional and continental standards to foster seamless interoperability among digital systems, including surveillance, laboratory, civil registration, and health management information systems.
Explore, test, and assess emerging digital solutions—such as mobile applications, geographic information systems (GIS), AI-driven analytics, remote sensing technologies, and online training platforms—to effectively tackle high-priority public health challenges.
Strengthen regional capabilities in digital health—such as training in data science, epidemiological modelling, GIS, and digital platforms—by partnering with National Public Health Institutes (APHIS), academic institutions, and Africa CDC headquarters.
Collaborate with regional teams to establish and sustain communities dedicated to digital health, fostering peer-driven knowledge exchange and the dissemination of proven methodologies.
Develop and execute regional digital health strategies, frameworks, and investment proposals, ensuring alignment with African Union and global digital health initiatives.
Promote the responsible and ethical deployment of digital technologies, with a strong emphasis on safeguarding data, fostering inclusivity, ensuring accessibility, and advancing gender equity.
Duties may include additional tasks assigned by RCC Leadership as needed.
Candidates must hold suitable academic qualifications and possess relevant professional experience to be considered for this position.
A Master’s Degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, Infectious Diseases, Laboratory Sciences, Health Security, Pharmacy, or a related field is required, along with at least a decade of hands-on experience in public health, with a strong focus on infectious disease epidemiology, monitoring, and surveillance. Of this experience, a minimum of six years must be in an expert-level capacity, and three years must have been dedicated to a supervisory role.
Or
A Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, Infectious Diseases, Laboratory Sciences, Health Security, Pharmacy, or M. D (or an equivalent field) is required, along with 12 years of professional experience in public health practice, specifically focusing on infectious disease epidemiology, monitoring, and surveillance. This experience must include at least six years in an expert capacity and three years in a supervisory role.
Demonstrated expertise in directing and overseeing intricate projects spanning diverse geographical regions and industries.
We excel in establishing and nurturing productive partnerships and fostering collaborative relationships with diverse stakeholders.
Demonstrated proficiency in hands-on experience through practical application in the following areas:
Outbreak investigations and responses, as well as public health emergency operations, are essential components of this role.
Professional version:
Develop and deploy surveillance systems utilizing both indicator-based and event-driven methodologies.
Enhancing the capacity of public health and laboratory infrastructures within low- and middle-income nations.
Professionals with a background in collaboration with National Public Health Institutes (APHIS), Ministries of Health, or regional and international public health organizations—such as Africa CDC, the World Health Organization (WHO), or Regional Economic Communities (RCS)—are encouraged to apply.
With a proven track record in Program design, Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E), and the development of technical guidelines and tools, candidates should demonstrate expertise in these critical areas.
Professional experience in a supervisory or team-leading capacity within technical or public health programs is required.
Proficient communication abilities, both verbal and written, are essential for this role. Candidates must demonstrate strong organizational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and the capacity to manage multiple tasks efficiently. Proficiency in relevant software applications and tools is required, along with the ability to analyze data and generate insightful reports. Problem-solving aptitude and adaptability in dynamic environments are highly valued. Experience in a similar position within the industry is preferred, as is a commitment to continuous professional development. Collaboration and teamwork are integral to success in this position.
Demonstrates proficiency in essential competencies and specialized skills relevant to the role, with a strong emphasis on technical expertise and industry-specific knowledge. Exhibits exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and communication abilities to effectively collaborate and drive results. Maintains a commitment to continuous learning and adaptability to evolving technologies and methodologies. Possesses strong organizational and time-management skills to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines consistently. Shows leadership potential and the capacity to mentor others while fostering a culture of innovation and accountability.
Proven proficiency in epidemiology, infectious disease control, health security, and laboratory systems, supported by robust technical expertise.
Proven knowledge of Africa’s public health framework, encompassing the International Health Regulations (IHR, 2005), the Global Health Security Agenda (HSA), the One Health approach, and regional disease surveillance systems.
Demonstrates a strong capacity to analyze and operationalize epidemiological and laboratory data to inform strategic decisions.
Demonstrates exceptional proficiency in planning, organization, and project management, with the capacity to oversee numerous technical initiatives simultaneously.
Proficient in crafting clear and concise written materials, such as technical reports, guidelines, and scientific presentations, alongside strong verbal communication abilities.
Proven capability in collaborating seamlessly within diverse, multicultural, and multidisciplinary teams, particularly in high-pressure emergency contexts.
Proven track record in overseeing programs that involve diverse stakeholders and span multiple countries, ensuring alignment and effective collaboration across all parties.
Proven ability to engage effectively with stakeholders and decision-makers across technical and professional environments, demonstrating strong diplomatic, representational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
Proven expertise in project planning and management, encompassing the organization, strategic planning, and execution of projects from initial conception to final implementation.
Proficient in transforming intricate technical data into clear, compelling presentations, briefings, reports, and funding proposals tailored for both specialized and general audiences.
Proficient in computer operations with strong word-processing skills, adept at utilizing email and internet applications, and experienced in office software suites including Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
Prospective candidates should demonstrate fluency in at least one of the official AU languages, including Arabic, English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, or Swahili. Proficiency in one or more supplementary African Union working languages will be considered an asset.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA
Experience Required
10 years
