Purpose of Job
The Regional Coordinator – Technical Programs serves as a senior technical authority, overseeing and directing Africa CDC’s key technical programs and initiatives within the Regional Coordinating Centre. This role delivers advanced technical leadership, facilitates consistent execution of Africa CDC strategies across Member States, and promotes cohesive integration of surveillance, laboratory, preparedness and response, and workforce development efforts at the regional level.
The incumbent will also facilitate the implementation of the Africa Health Security and Sovereignty Agenda (AHS) pillars—specifically digital health, Public Financial Management, and Supply Chain/African Pooled Procurement Mechanism (PPM)—across Member States within the RCC.
The incumbent operates under the direct supervision of the RCC Leadership and collaborates closely with technical divisions at Africa CDC Headquarters.
Oversees a comprehensive range of critical duties encompassing project execution, team leadership, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure alignment with organizational objectives. Facilitates the development and implementation of strategic initiatives, monitors progress against key performance indicators, and addresses operational challenges to maintain efficiency. Collaborates closely with senior management to refine processes, allocate resources effectively, and drive continuous improvement across all facets of the role.
The Regional Coordinator will be responsible for overseeing and facilitating regional operations, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and compliance with established policies. This role requires strong leadership skills to coordinate cross-functional teams, manage stakeholder relationships, and drive performance across designated territories. Responsibilities include developing and implementing strategic initiatives, monitoring regional progress, and identifying opportunities for growth and efficiency. The ideal candidate must possess a minimum of five years of relevant experience, exceptional communication abilities, and a proven track record in project management. Additionally, proficiency in data analysis and regional reporting is essential to assess performance metrics and support data-driven decision-making.
Provides expert technical leadership and strategic direction, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives while fostering innovation and sustainable growth. Guides cross-functional teams through complex challenges, leveraging deep technical expertise to drive informed decision-making and operational excellence. Collaborates with senior stakeholders to define long-term vision, prioritize initiatives, and allocate resources effectively. Champions best practices in technology adoption, scalability, and efficiency, while mentoring emerging leaders to strengthen technical capabilities across the organization.
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 regarding surveillance, laboratory systems, emergency preparedness and response, antimicrobial resistance, and priority disease control.
Conduct thorough technical evaluations encompassing situation analyses, risk assessments, and gap analyses to guide regional priorities and support investment decision-making.
The role encompasses responsibilities related to surveillance, laboratory operations, and information systems, requiring expertise in data collection, analysis, and management. Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in monitoring and reporting systems, laboratory protocols, and the maintenance of secure, efficient information technology frameworks. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to interpret complex data are essential for success in this position. Additionally, familiarity with regulatory compliance, quality assurance, and technological advancements in these fields is highly valued.
Revise, implement, and enhance integrated disease surveillance and response (IDs) systems alongside event-based surveillance frameworks across the region.
Facilitate the development and enhancement of regional laboratory networks, reference laboratories, and quality management systems to ensure optimal performance and compliance with established standards.
Enhance the adoption of digital health solutions, facilitate seamless integration of data platforms, and champion interoperability to enable efficient real-time data collection, analysis, and visualization.
Develop and consistently distribute comprehensive epidemiological reports, bulletins, and risk assessments to stakeholders.
We are seeking a dedicated professional to oversee emergency preparedness and response initiatives, ensuring the organization is equipped to handle crises effectively. This role requires developing, implementing, and maintaining comprehensive emergency plans, conducting risk assessments, and coordinating with internal and external stakeholders to mitigate potential threats. The incumbent will lead training programs, drills, and simulations to enhance staff readiness while liaising with local authorities and emergency services to ensure alignment with regulatory standards. Additionally, the position involves analyzing incident reports, identifying trends, and recommending improvements to enhance resilience and response capabilities. Strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills are essential to excel in this critical function.
Support the formulation, evaluation, and refinement of regional and national emergency preparedness and response plans for multiple hazards, ensuring alignment with the International Health Regulations (IHR, 2005) and the Africa CDC frameworks.
Coordinate technical elements of regional emergency operations, encompassing risk evaluation, incident handling, surge deployment, on-site 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.
Provide timely assistance to RCC technical support teams during outbreaks and other public health emergencies to facilitate swift activation.
Collaborate with Member States, Regional Economic Communities, National Public Health Institutes, and pertinent partners to align cross-border preparedness and response initiatives.
Facilitate post-incident analyses, conduct real-time evaluations, oversee simulation-based training, and execute corrective action plans to enhance operational performance and mitigate future risks.
Maintain a regional outbreak readiness dashboard that tracks surveillance indicators, laboratory capabilities, workforce availability, emergency operations’ capacity, stockpiles, and surge preparedness.
Provide prompt assistance in mobilizing RCC technical support teams during outbreaks and other public health crises.
Collaborate with Member States, Regional Economic Communities (RCS), National Public Health Institutes (APHIS), and other key partners to synchronize cross-border preparedness and response initiatives.
Assist in conducting after-action reviews, intra-action reviews, and simulation exercises, while also facilitating the implementation of corrective action plans.
We are seeking to strengthen organizational effectiveness and talent through strategic capacity building and workforce development initiatives. These efforts aim to enhance employee skills, foster professional growth, and cultivate a high-performing team capable of meeting evolving organizational demands. Ideal candidates will possess a strong background in training design, leadership development, and performance management, with experience implementing scalable solutions to address workforce challenges. Responsibilities include designing and delivering training programs, assessing skill gaps, mentoring staff, and collaborating with stakeholders to align development strategies with business objectives.
Lead the technical design and execution of regional training initiatives, encompassing Field Epidemiology Training Programs (FTP), laboratory training, infection prevention and control (IPC), and emergency management systems.
Facilitate the adoption and integration of ongoing professional development and competency-based training initiatives by Member States, ensuring alignment with Africa CDC frameworks.
Promote technical mentorship, twinning initiatives, and South-South collaboration between national public health institutes (APHIS) and laboratories.
Program Management, Monitoring & Evaluation, and Quality Assurance are integral components of this role, requiring expertise in strategic oversight, systematic data analysis, and adherence to established standards to ensure project excellence and continuous improvement.
Oversee the strategic planning of technical initiatives, ensuring alignment with results-based management principles and robust monitoring and evaluation (M&E) frameworks for RCC technical programs.
The role involves establishing and implementing technical standards, performance metrics, and interactive dashboards, while overseeing rigorous quality assurance processes to validate all technical deliverables generated by the RCC.
Prepare technical reports, donor reports, and documentation of best practices and lessons learned as part of your responsibilities.
Technical coordination and strategic partnerships form the core of this role, ensuring seamless collaboration between technical teams and external stakeholders. The position requires establishing and nurturing relationships with partners, vendors, and clients to drive joint initiatives and enhance operational efficiency. Key responsibilities include aligning technical deliverables with business objectives, facilitating cross-functional communication, and overseeing partnership agreements to meet organizational goals. A deep understanding of technical processes, coupled with strong interpersonal and negotiation skills, is essential for success in this position.
Act as the primary technical liaison between the RCC and key stakeholders, including national public health institutes (APHIS), health ministries, regional economic communities (RCS), WHO, UN entities, academic institutions, and implementing partners.
Facilitate the seamless collaboration of regional technical working groups and communities of practice, focusing on surveillance, laboratory systems, emergency preparedness, and additional thematic domains to drive cohesive and effective initiatives.
Offer expert technical insights to regional policy discussions, frameworks, and guideline development processes led by Africa CDC, the African Union, or their collaborative partners.
Resource Mobilization and Innovation (Technical Focus) encompasses the strategic identification, acquisition, and deployment of essential resources to drive progress and foster innovative solutions. This role requires a deep understanding of technical methodologies and the ability to leverage cutting-edge approaches to address complex challenges. Responsibilities include assessing resource needs, designing innovative frameworks, and implementing solutions that enhance operational efficiency and sustainability. Candidates must possess robust analytical skills, proficiency in relevant technical tools, and a proven track record of translating innovative concepts into practical applications. The ideal individual will demonstrate expertise in resource optimization, problem-solving, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to achieve organizational objectives.
Offer technical expertise to develop concept notes, project proposals, and investment cases aimed at enhancing regional public health systems.
Identify and champion cutting-edge tools, technologies, and methodologies designed to enhance surveillance capabilities, diagnostic processes, data utilization, and emergency response operations.
Offer assistance to country pillar leads to ensure effective operations and successful project execution.
Duties may include performing additional tasks assigned by RCC Leadership as needed.
Digital Health and Innovation is at the forefront of leveraging technology to enhance healthcare delivery and patient outcomes. This dynamic field seeks professionals who possess a strong foundation in health informatics, data analytics, and emerging digital solutions such as telemedicine, AI-driven diagnostics, and wearable health devices. Ideal candidates will demonstrate expertise in designing, implementing, and optimizing digital health platforms, ensuring seamless integration with existing healthcare systems while maintaining strict compliance with regulatory standards. Responsibilities include analyzing health data to identify trends, developing innovative solutions to address healthcare challenges, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to drive digital transformation in clinical and administrative workflows. Proficiency in healthcare IT systems, a deep understanding of interoperability standards, and the ability to translate complex technical concepts into actionable insights are essential for success in this evolving landscape.
Serve as the primary regional liaison for the Africa CDC Digital Health and Innovation agenda within the RCC, facilitating coordination and engagement across key stakeholders.
Assist Member States in developing, deploying, and expanding digital health solutions tailored for surveillance, laboratory systems, case management, community reporting, training initiatives, and tell-mentoring programs.
Drive the seamless integration of digital systems—including surveillance, laboratory, civil registration, and health management information systems—by implementing agreed-upon regional and continental standards to ensure full interoperability.
Identify, implement, and assess innovative digital solutions—such as mobile applications, geographic information systems (GIS), AI-driven analytics, remote sensing technologies, and digital training platforms—to tackle critical public health challenges.
Develop regional capabilities in digital health—including data science, epidemiological modeling, GIS, and digital platforms—through partnerships with national public health institutes, academic institutions, and Africa CDC headquarters.
Facilitate the organization and engagement of regional digital health communities of practice, fostering peer-to-peer learning and the exchange of effective strategies and insights.
Contribute to development and implementation of regional digital health strategies, frameworks and investment cases, including alignment with AU and global digital health initiatives.
Promote the responsible and ethical deployment of digital technologies, with particular emphasis on safeguarding data privacy, fostering equitable access, ensuring accessibility for all users, and addressing gender-related considerations.
Deliver additional assignments and responsibilities as directed by the RCC Leadership team.
Applicants must meet specific academic credentials and possess pertinent professional experience to qualify for consideration. A relevant degree in the pertinent field is essential, accompanied by a minimum of [X] years of hands-on experience in a comparable role. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate expertise in [specific skills or areas of knowledge], ensuring alignment with the demands of the position. Professional certifications or advanced training may also be required or strongly preferred, depending on the organization’s standards.
A Master’s Degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, Infectious Diseases, Laboratory Sciences, Health Security, Pharmacy, or a related field is required, along with a minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in public health practice. Emphasis should be placed on infectious disease epidemiology, monitoring, and surveillance, including at least 6 years in an expert capacity and 3 years in a supervisory role.
Or
A Master’s degree or higher in Public Health, Epidemiology, Infectious Diseases, Laboratory Sciences, Health Security, Pharmacy, Medicine (M.D.), or a related field is required, along with a minimum of 12 years of professional experience in public health, with a strong focus on infectious disease epidemiology, monitoring, and surveillance. Of these, at least six years must be in an expert-level capacity, and three years must include supervisory responsibilities.
Demonstrated expertise in directing and overseeing intricate initiatives spanning diverse international markets and industries.
Exceptional ability to forge and nurture partnerships, collaborating seamlessly with diverse stakeholders across different levels and functions.
Demonstrated practical expertise in the following areas:
Conducting outbreak investigations and leading responses to public health emergencies are critical components of this role.
Design and develop surveillance systems, utilizing both indicator-based and event-based methodologies to ensure comprehensive monitoring and detection capabilities.
Enhancing public health and laboratory systems in low- and middle-income countries is a key focus, requiring strategic interventions to bolster capacity and infrastructure. This involves developing resilient systems capable of addressing health challenges through improved diagnostics, surveillance, and workforce training. Expertise in international health, program management, and cross-sector collaboration is essential to drive sustainable progress and equitable access to healthcare solutions.
Candidates should possess prior 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), and Regional Economic Communities (RCS).
With a strong background in Program design, Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E), and the creation of technical guidelines and tools, you bring valuable expertise to the role. Your experience in these areas demonstrates your ability to design effective programs, implement robust M&E frameworks, and develop practical tools and guidelines to support program implementation and evaluation.
Proven leadership in technical or public health program management, overseeing teams or providing supervisory guidance, is required.
Proficient candidates must demonstrate expertise in pertinent technical and soft skills, including but not limited to analytical reasoning, problem-solving capabilities, and effective communication. Familiarity with industry-standard tools, software platforms, and methodologies is essential, along with the ability to adapt to evolving technologies and workflows. Strong organizational aptitude, meticulous attention to detail, and a commitment to continuous professional development are highly valued. Prior experience in a similar role, coupled with a proven track record of delivering measurable results, is often a prerequisite. Additionally, proficiency in data management, project coordination, and cross-functional collaboration may be necessary to meet the role’s demands.
We are seeking candidates who possess strong foundational competencies and specialized skills in key areas. The ideal professional will demonstrate proficiency in problem-solving, analytical thinking, and effective communication. Additionally, they should exhibit expertise in project management, technical knowledge relevant to the role, and a commitment to continuous learning and development. Experience with industry-specific tools, methodologies, and best practices is highly desirable, as is the ability to collaborate across teams and adapt to evolving challenges. Strong organizational and time-management abilities are essential for success in this position.
Accomplished professionals should possess advanced technical knowledge in epidemiology, infectious disease management, health security, and/or laboratory systems.
Professional rewrite:
Possesses a solid grasp of Africa’s public health framework, with particular insight into key initiatives such as the International Health Regulations (2005), the Global Health Security Agenda, One Health approaches, and regional disease surveillance systems.
Demonstrated proficiency in analyzing and applying epidemiological and laboratory data to inform strategic decisions.
Proven expertise in strategic planning, organizational leadership, and project management, coupled with the capacity to oversee multiple technical initiatives simultaneously.
Demonstrates exceptional proficiency in both written and verbal communication, encompassing the development of technical reports, operational guidelines, and scientific presentations.
Proficient in collaborating seamlessly within diverse, multicultural, and multidisciplinary teams, particularly in challenging emergency environments.
Proven track record in overseeing complex programs that involve diverse stakeholders and span multiple countries.
Proven ability to cultivate diplomatic relations, represent organizational interests effectively, and interact productively with stakeholders and key decision-makers across technical and professional environments. Demonstrated expertise in interpersonal communication and clear, persuasive dialogue tailored to diverse audiences.
Proven expertise in project planning and management, encompassing the organization, strategic planning, and execution of projects from initial conception to full implementation.
Proficient in transforming complex technical data into clear, concise presentations, briefings, reports, and funding proposals tailored for both specialized and general audiences.
Proficient in computer operations with strong word-processing skills, alongside adept use of email and internet applications. Demonstrated experience in leveraging office software suites, including MS Excel, PowerPoint, and Word, to enhance productivity and collaboration.
Proficient knowledge of at least one African Union working language—including Arabic, English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, or Swahili—is required. Candidates with fluency in one or more additional AU working languages will be particularly advantageous.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA
Experience Required
10 years
