Purpose of Job
The Regional Coordinator – Technical Programs serves as a senior technical authority, tasked with overseeing and directing Africa CDC’s key technical programs and initiatives through the Regional Coordinating Centre. This role delivers advanced technical leadership, facilitates the unified execution of Africa CDC strategies across Member States, and promotes the integration of surveillance, laboratory systems, preparedness and response measures, and workforce development initiatives at the regional level.
The successful candidate will also facilitate the institutionalization of the Africa Health Security and Sovereignty Agenda (AHS) pillars, including digital health, Public Financial Management, and the Supply Chain/African Pooled Procurement Mechanism (PPM), across Member States within the Regional Coordination Centre (RCC).
The position holder reports directly to RCC Leadership and collaborates closely with technical divisions at Africa CDC Headquarters.
Oversee a range of critical duties to ensure operational efficiency and compliance with established standards. Develop and implement strategic initiatives to enhance productivity and streamline workflows. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align projects with organizational objectives and foster innovation. Monitor performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and implement corrective actions as needed. Maintain accurate documentation and reporting to support data-driven decision-making. Ensure adherence to regulatory requirements and internal policies throughout all processes. Provide guidance and mentorship to team members to cultivate a high-performing and cohesive work environment.
The Regional Coordinator will be responsible for overseeing and managing regional operations, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and strategic goals. This role requires the individual to coordinate cross-functional initiatives, monitor performance metrics, and facilitate communication between headquarters and regional teams. The incumbent will analyze regional trends, identify opportunities for growth, and implement policies to enhance operational efficiency. Additionally, they will lead a team of regional managers, provide guidance on best practices, and ensure compliance with company standards and regulatory requirements. Strong leadership, analytical, and interpersonal skills are essential, along with a proven track record in a similar role within a dynamic, multi-site environment.
Providing high-level technical direction and strategic oversight, this role involves leading technical teams and advising on critical decisions to drive innovation, scalability, and alignment with organizational objectives. Key responsibilities include mentoring engineers, establishing best practices, and ensuring robust system architecture while staying abreast of emerging technologies. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in software development or engineering, strong leadership capabilities, and the ability to translate complex technical concepts into actionable business strategies.
Develop regional technical implementation plans and standard operating procedures by converting Africa CDC continental strategies, frameworks, and guidelines into actionable directives.
Offer specialized technical guidance to RCC leadership and Member States on surveillance methodologies, laboratory infrastructure, emergency preparedness and response strategies, antimicrobial resistance mitigation, and priority disease control initiatives.
Conduct thorough technical evaluations, including situation analyses, risk assessments, and gap analyses, to shape regional priorities and support investment decision-making.
We oversee and manage systems integral to surveillance, laboratory operations, and information management. These responsibilities include monitoring and maintaining equipment, ensuring data integrity and security, and supporting analytical processes within laboratory settings. Additionally, we facilitate efficient information flow, safeguard sensitive data, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. Strong technical proficiency, meticulous attention to detail, and adherence to protocols are essential for success in this role.
Coordinate the design, implementation, and enhancement of integrated disease surveillance and response (IDs) systems, alongside event-based surveillance initiatives, across the designated region.
Facilitate the development and ongoing 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 interoperability frameworks to facilitate real-time data collection, analysis, and visualization.
Produce and distribute epidemiological reports, bulletins, and risk assessments on a consistent basis, maintaining the highest standards of quality throughout.
In the event of an emergency, the appointed individual will oversee comprehensive preparedness measures and coordinate effective response strategies to ensure the safety and security of all personnel and assets. This role necessitates a proactive approach to identifying potential risks, developing mitigation plans, and maintaining readiness through regular training and drills. The incumbent will collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to establish robust emergency protocols, conduct thorough risk assessments, and implement timely interventions as required. Strong leadership, critical thinking, and exceptional communication skills are essential for executing these responsibilities with precision and efficiency.
Support 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 the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) frameworks.
Coordinate technical aspects of regional emergency operations, such as evaluating risks, managing incidents, deploying surge capacity, conducting field investigations, and performing after-action reviews.
Play a key role in sustaining the operational readiness and efficacy of regional rapid response teams and the public health emergency workforce.
Oversee a comprehensive regional outbreak readiness dashboard that tracks critical surveillance indicators, evaluates laboratory capabilities, assesses workforce availability, monitors emergency operations’ readiness, manages stockpile levels, and evaluates surge capacity.
Provide prompt assistance in mobilizing RCC technical support teams during outbreaks and public health emergencies to ensure swift response and resolution.
Collaborate with Member States, Regional Economic Communities (RCS), National Public Health Institutes (APHIS), and key partners to align cross-border preparedness and response initiatives.
Facilitate post-incident assessments, ongoing procedural evaluations, simulated training exercises, and the deployment of remedial action strategies.
Maintain a regional outbreak readiness dashboard that tracks surveillance signals, laboratory capacity, workforce availability, emergency operations’ capacity, stockpiles, and surge readiness.
Provide timely assistance in deploying RCC technical support teams during outbreaks and public health emergencies to ensure swift activation.
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 post-incident evaluations, ongoing operational assessments, simulation-based training, and the execution of corrective action initiatives to enhance performance and mitigate future risks.
We are seeking to enhance organizational capabilities and talent through targeted initiatives in capacity building and workforce development. The role involves designing, implementing, and evaluating programs that strengthen individual skills, team performance, and institutional effectiveness. Key responsibilities include identifying training needs, developing curriculum, delivering workshops, and measuring outcomes to ensure measurable improvements in professional competencies and organizational growth. Candidates should possess expertise in instructional design, change management, and performance evaluation, with a proven ability to foster a culture of continuous learning and adaptability. Experience in stakeholder engagement and program sustainability is essential.
Spearhead the technical design and deployment of comprehensive regional training initiatives, encompassing Field Epidemiology Training Programs (FTP), laboratory training, infection prevention and control (IPC), and emergency management systems.
Facilitate ongoing professional development and competency-based training for Member States in alignment with Africa CDC frameworks to ensure institutionalization.
Provide guidance and support for technical mentorship programs, establish twinning partnerships, and foster collaboration between national public health institutes (APHIS) and laboratories to enhance capacity building in the Global South.
Program Management, Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E), and Quality Assurance are integral components of our operational framework, ensuring the effective delivery of projects and adherence to established standards. These roles encompass strategic oversight, systematic performance tracking, and rigorous compliance verification to optimize outcomes and maintain accountability.
Oversee the formulation of technical work plans, implement results-based management principles, and coordinate monitoring and evaluation (M&E) activities for RCC technical programs.
Develop and implement technical standards, key performance indicators, and monitoring dashboards to guarantee the quality of all technical deliverables generated by the RCC.
Assist in compiling technical reports, donor reports, and documentation of best practices and lessons learned.
Technical coordination and strategic partnerships are integral components of this role, encompassing the management of technical collaborations, ensuring alignment with project objectives, and fostering productive relationships with external stakeholders. The position demands a proactive approach to identifying and nurturing partnerships that enhance technical capabilities, streamline processes, and drive innovation. Responsibilities include negotiating agreements, resolving conflicts, and maintaining clear communication channels with partners to facilitate seamless project execution. Additionally, the role requires meticulous attention to detail in tracking technical milestones, assessing partner performance, and reporting progress to senior leadership. Strong interpersonal skills, coupled with a deep understanding of technical requirements, are essential to bridge gaps between diverse teams and external entities, ensuring mutual goals are achieved efficiently and effectively.
Act as the primary technical liaison between the RCC and key stakeholders, including National Public Health Institutes (APHIS), Ministries of Health, Regional Economic Communities (RCS), WHO and UN agencies, academic institutions, and implementing partners.
Facilitate the organization and leadership of regional technical working groups and communities of practice spanning key domains such as surveillance, laboratory systems, emergency preparedness, and other specialized thematic fields.
Contribute specialized technical expertise to regional policy dialogues, frameworks, and guidelines developed by Africa CDC, the African Union, or their partners.
Dedicated to the advancement of resource mobilization and innovation, this role emphasizes a technical approach, focusing on the strategic identification, acquisition, and utilization of essential resources while fostering inventive solutions to drive organizational growth and sustainability.
Deliver technical expertise to develop concept notes, project proposals, and investment cases aimed at enhancing regional public health systems.
Our role involves sourcing and championing cutting-edge tools, technologies, and methodologies to enhance surveillance capabilities, streamline diagnostic processes, optimize data utilization, and strengthen emergency response operations.
Offer comprehensive administrative and operational assistance to country pillar leads to ensure seamless execution of their strategic initiatives.
Execute all additional tasks deemed necessary by RCC Leadership when assigned.
Digital Health and Innovation is a dynamic field focused on leveraging technology to enhance healthcare delivery, improve patient outcomes, and streamline operational efficiencies. This domain encompasses the development, implementation, and evaluation of digital solutions—such as mobile health apps, telemedicine platforms, wearable devices, and AI-driven analytics—to address critical challenges in modern healthcare. Professionals in this space must possess a blend of technical expertise, including proficiency in software development, data science, and cybersecurity, alongside a deep understanding of clinical workflows and regulatory compliance. Key responsibilities include designing user-centric digital health tools, collaborating with cross-functional teams to integrate technology into care pathways, ensuring data integrity and patient privacy, and driving innovation through evidence-based practices. Strong problem-solving abilities, adaptability to evolving technologies, and a commitment to improving healthcare accessibility and equity are essential for success in this rapidly advancing sector.
Serve as the dedicated regional contact for Africa CDC’s Digital Health and Innovation agenda within the Regional Collaborating Centre (RCC).
Assist Member States in developing, deploying, and expanding digital health initiatives focused on surveillance, laboratory systems, patient management, community reporting, training programs, and tell-mentoring services.
Facilitate the seamless integration and compatibility of digital systems—including surveillance, laboratory, civil registration, and health management information systems—by adhering to established regional and continental standards.
To assess, implement, and assess the effectiveness of emerging digital solutions—including mobile applications, geographic information systems (GIS), AI-driven analytics, remote sensing technologies, and digital training platforms—with the aim of tackling critical public health issues.
Develop regional capabilities in digital health—such as training in data science, epidemiological modeling, GIS, and digital platforms—in partnership with National Public Health Institutes (APHIS), academic institutions, and Africa CDC Headquarters.
Facilitate the formation and management of regional digital health communities of practice, fostering peer-to-peer learning and the dissemination of best practices.
Play a key role in formulating and executing regional digital health strategies, frameworks, and investment proposals, ensuring alignment with African Union and global digital health initiatives.
Foster responsible deployment of digital technologies by prioritizing data protection, equity, accessibility, and gender considerations.
Execute all additional responsibilities assigned by the RCC Leadership team as needed.
Candidates must fulfill specific academic qualifications and possess pertinent professional experience to be considered for this role.
A Master’s degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, Infectious Diseases, Laboratory Sciences, Health Security, Pharmacy, or a closely related discipline is required, along with at least a decade of hands-on experience in public health practice—specifically in infectious disease epidemiology, monitoring, and surveillance. Of this experience, a minimum of six years must be at an expert level, and three years must have been served in a supervisory capacity.
Or
A Bachelor’s degree or higher in Public Health, Epidemiology, Infectious Diseases, Laboratory Sciences, Health Security, Pharmacy, Medicine (M. D), or a closely related field is required, along with a minimum of 12 years of hands-on experience in public health practice. This experience should include a strong focus on infectious disease epidemiology, monitoring, and surveillance, with at least six years serving in an expert capacity and three years in a supervisory position.
Experienced in directing and overseeing intricate, cross-border, and cross-industry projects with a track record of success.
Exceptional ability to cultivate and sustain strategic partnerships and foster collaborative relationships across diverse stakeholders.
Demonstrated practical expertise in executing tasks with a hands-on approach is required.
Conducting outbreak investigations and managing responses to public health emergencies are essential responsibilities of this role. Additionally, actively participating in public health emergency operations is required to ensure effective and timely interventions.
Design and development of surveillance systems, incorporating both indicator-based and event-driven approaches.
Enhancing the capabilities of public health and laboratory infrastructures within low- and middle-income nations.
Professionals with a background collaborating with National Public Health Institutes (APHIS), Ministries of Health, or regional and global health organizations—such as Africa CDC, the World Health Organization (WHO), or Regional Economic Communities (RCS)—are encouraged to apply.
Accomplished expertise in program design, monitoring and evaluation (M&E), and the development of technical guidelines and tools is required.
Supervised technical or public health programs, or provided leadership within a team environment.
Demonstrated expertise in key competencies including, but not limited to, analytical thinking, technical proficiency, and effective communication is essential for this role. Candidates must possess a minimum of three years of relevant industry experience, with a proven track record of delivering measurable results in similar positions. Strong problem-solving abilities, adaptability to evolving challenges, and a commitment to continuous learning are also required. Familiarity with industry-standard tools and methodologies, as well as the capacity to work both independently and collaboratively within cross-functional teams, is necessary. Additionally, exceptional organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail are expected to ensure high-quality outcomes.
Core Responsibilities and Essential Skills
This role requires demonstrated expertise in strategic planning, operational efficiency, and cross-functional leadership to drive organizational objectives. A successful candidate will possess strong analytical capabilities, exceptional problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Proficiency in data-driven decision-making, advanced communication, and stakeholder engagement is essential, along with a track record of delivering measurable results. The ideal professional will exhibit adaptability, innovation, and a collaborative mindset to foster team success and maintain competitive advantage.
Proficiency in epidemiology, infectious disease control, health security, and/or laboratory systems, supported by robust technical knowledge, is essential.
Possesses a thorough knowledge of Africa’s public health framework, encompassing the International Health Regulations (2005), the Global Health Security Agenda (HSA), the One Health approach, and regional disease surveillance systems.
Demonstrates a strong capacity to analyze and apply epidemiological and laboratory data to inform strategic decisions.
Proven expertise in strategic planning, organizational coordination, and project management, coupled with the capacity to oversee numerous technical initiatives simultaneously.
Demonstrates exceptional proficiency in both written and verbal communication, encompassing the development of technical reports, comprehensive guidelines, and impactful scientific presentations.
Proven capability to collaborate productively within diverse, multicultural teams and navigate the challenges of multifaceted emergency environments.
Skilled in overseeing programs that involve diverse stakeholders and span multiple countries, ensuring cohesive collaboration and alignment of objectives across varied teams and regions.
Proven ability to engage effectively with stakeholders and decision-makers across technical and professional environments, demonstrating strong diplomatic acumen, representational expertise, and exceptional interpersonal and communication competencies.
Demonstrated expertise in project planning and management, with a proven ability to organize, plan, and execute projects from initial conception through to successful implementation.
Proficient in transforming complex technical data into clear, concise presentations, briefings, and reports, as well as compelling funding proposals tailored to both technical experts and general audiences.
Proficient in essential computer applications, with strong word-processing skills and adeptness in utilizing email and internet tools. Demonstrated experience with office software suites, including Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
Proficiency in at least one of the African Union’s official languages—Arabic, English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, or Swahili—is essential. Additional fluency in any other AU working language would further enhance an applicant’s suitability for the role.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA
Experience Required
10 years
