We are seeking a highly motivated individual to join our team in a pivotal role focusing on [specific industry/sector, if applicable]. The ideal candidate will possess a proven track record of success in [key responsibility or function, e.g., project management, data analysis, etc.] and demonstrate strong expertise in [specific skills or tools, e.g., software proficiency, regulatory compliance, etc.]. Key responsibilities include [list 2-3 core duties, e.g., overseeing cross-functional initiatives, developing strategic plans, ensuring operational efficiency, etc.]. The successful applicant must meet the following qualifications: [list 2-4 essential requirements, e.g., a Bachelor’s degree in [relevant field], X years of experience in [field], proficiency in [specific tool or language], etc.]. Additionally, the role demands exceptional problem-solving abilities, excellent communication skills, and the capacity to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. If you are a dynamic professional eager to contribute to impactful projects and drive innovation, we encourage you to apply.
Africa stands at a critical juncture in health innovation, marked by increasing collaboration among governments, regional bodies, researchers, manufacturers, and development partners to bolster health sovereignty and improve access to locally appropriate solutions. As this dynamic environment continues to shift, the demand for decisive policy leadership, persuasive advocacy, and seamless ecosystem coordination has reached unprecedented levels.
At the crossroads of health research and development, policy formulation, advocacy efforts, and stakeholder engagement, this position will drive forward this pivotal evolution by spearheading initiatives that cultivate supportive frameworks for innovation. By bridging critical areas such as research, regulation, manufacturing, financing, market access, and health system priorities, the role will play a key part in fostering environments where transformative advancements can thrive.
The ideal candidate will collaborate extensively with governments, regional bodies, industry leaders, academic institutions, civil society organizations, innovators, and development partners to convert research findings into practical solutions, highlight critical concerns on policy agendas, and foster alliances that advance sustainable transformation.
The position integrates strategic advocacy, policy shaping, partnership cultivation, and program management responsibilities.
The ideal candidate will drive strategic engagement at the highest levels, crafting impactful narratives, fostering influential networks, and uncovering new opportunities to advance health innovation and ensure equitable access throughout Africa.
This position will contribute to fostering environments where scientific breakthroughs and innovations can effectively drive sustained improvements in public health, stimulate economic development, and enhance the resilience of health systems across the continent.
Oversee and execute a range of critical duties essential to the role, including developing and implementing strategic initiatives, managing cross-functional teams, and ensuring alignment with organizational objectives. Collaborate with senior leadership to drive decision-making processes and enhance operational efficiency. Monitor project timelines, budgets, and deliverables to maintain accountability and achieve measurable outcomes. Act as a liaison between departments to foster seamless communication and streamline workflows. Identify and mitigate risks while capitalizing on opportunities to optimize performance and innovation. Prepare comprehensive reports and presentations to communicate progress, challenges, and strategic recommendations to stakeholders.
Develop and oversee PATH’s health research and development (R&D) policy and advocacy initiatives, establishing a cohesive regional strategy that ensures alignment with organizational goals, operational excellence, and measurable impact.
Oversee program delivery and performance by coordinating work plans, timelines, deliverables, budgets, and reporting requirements to uphold strong program management and accountability standards.
Cultivate and maintain strategic partnerships by fostering robust relationships with governments, regional institutions, multilateral organizations, research institutions, civil society, donors, and private sector partners to advance collective health research and development objectives.
Strengthen partnerships with regional and continental stakeholders by fostering collaboration with key institutions, including the African Union, AMA, Africa CDC, AUDI-NEPAD, and other relevant entities to advance priorities in health research, development, and innovation.
Serves as a principal delegate in pivotal technical assemblies, policy symposia, collaborative working parties, and high-profile gatherings that influence the trajectory of health innovation initiatives across Africa.
Facilitate cross-functional alignment with PATH by engaging with technical, policy, partnerships, and external affairs teams to align R&D advocacy, technical, and programmatic priorities into unified strategies and deliverables.
Provide team management and mentorship as assigned, overseeing project teams, consultants, and partners to cultivate collaboration, continuous learning, an inclusive environment, and professional development.
Deliver strategic insights and foster knowledge growth by staying ahead of emerging trends and opportunities within Africa’s health innovation ecosystem. Track advancements and shifts across the region to shape strategy, cultivate partnerships, and enhance advocacy efforts. Develop and disseminate policy tools, reports, analyses, presentations, and advocacy materials designed to bolster policy engagement and advance Africa’s health innovation priorities.
Elevate PATH’s prominence and impact by enhancing its external positioning and establishing thought leadership in health research and development, innovation policy, and equitable access throughout Africa.
Business development efforts involve identifying potential partnerships and securing funding opportunities, while also assisting in the preparation of proposals.
The ideal candidate must possess a bachelor’s degree in a related field, along with a minimum of three years of relevant experience. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and advanced Excel skills are required. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities are essential. Excellent communication and organizational skills are also necessary to succeed in this role.
Essential Skills and Experience:
Candidates must possess a proven track record in the specified domain, demonstrating expertise through relevant professional or educational experience. Proficiency in key technical or functional areas is required, as is a strong ability to adapt to evolving challenges and methodologies. Prior hands-on experience in similar roles is highly valued, along with a commitment to continuous learning and improvement. Additionally, familiarity with industry-specific tools, systems, or best practices is necessary to excel in this position.
Education & Expertise – A Master’s Degree in Public Health, Global Health, Health Policy, Public Policy, International Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Economics, or a relevant field is required. Candidates with prior experience in management consulting are highly desirable.
Seasoned professionals in Health R&D Policy Leadership must possess a comprehensive grasp of Africa’s health research and development landscape, covering key areas such as product development, market introduction, equitable access strategies, regulatory frameworks, and the advancement of local manufacturing capabilities.
Proven expertise in crafting and executing robust global health advocacy strategies grounded in evidence, with a demonstrated ability to shape policy adoption and implementation across national, regional, and continental levels.
Technical Translation – Proficiency in simplifying intricate scientific, policy, or regulatory topics into concise, compelling narratives tailored for policymakers and key decision-makers.
Demonstrated proficiency in health research and development, public health initiatives, policy formulation, or a closely related discipline is required.
Proven expertise in cultivating and sustaining strong, credible relationships with governmental entities, regional bodies, international organizations, civil society groups, and private sector collaborators.
Requires proven expertise in cultivating and overseeing collaborative alliances, facilitating seamless coordination among diverse entities, organizations, or stakeholder networks.
Exceptional proficiency in both written and verbal English communication is essential, along with strong capabilities in presentation and facilitation, particularly when engaging with senior stakeholders.
Project management requires exceptional organizational abilities, demonstrated through leadership of cross-border or multi-stakeholder initiatives while effectively managing competing priorities, strict deadlines, and critical deliverables.
Proven ability to collaborate seamlessly across diverse teams, geographical boundaries, cultural contexts, and industry sectors, demonstrating adaptability in fast-paced environments.
Must possess valid authorization to work legally in the hiring country.
Seeking candidates with preferred qualifications and expertise, including a proven track record in relevant fields, relevant certifications or advanced degrees, and hands-on experience with specific tools or methodologies. Familiarity with industry standards and best practices is highly advantageous, as well as strong problem-solving abilities and a collaborative mindset. Prior success in similar roles and a commitment to continuous learning are also valued, along with excellent communication skills for effective teamwork and stakeholder engagement.
Demonstrates a proven track record in overseeing philanthropic and multilateral funding initiatives.
A client-focused approach entails prioritizing stakeholder needs while operating within organizational resource limitations, coupled with a proactive attitude that embraces adaptability and responsiveness to evolving policymaker agendas.
We seek expertise in capacity strengthening, specifically with demonstrated experience in designing or implementing training initiatives and providing technical assistance to enhance policy development and advocacy capabilities.
Proficient multilingual capabilities, specifically in French, Portuguese, or Arabic, are essential to facilitate effective engagement across Africa’s diverse linguistic and regional landscapes.
Qualifications
MBA/MSc/MA
