Purpose of the assignment
This term of Reference aim to secure technical assistance to bolster support for field assistants in high-burden Local Government Areas (Gas), where the sheer volume of facilities and SMC personnel necessitates enhanced oversight to guarantee comprehensive household coverage during implementation.
The four Local Government Areas (Gas) in Sokoto State bearing the most significant burden are Gaza, Bamako, Boding, and Sokoto North.
Scope
The LGA Technical Assistant is responsible for guaranteeing the effective execution of SMC services at the community level by HFW supervisors and CDDs. This involves ensuring the prompt delivery of SMC commodities and supplies, conducting supportive supervision, providing on-the-job capacity building, and meticulously documenting program activities.
He or she delivers guidance and mentorship to the designated stakeholders while ensuring strict adherence to the SMC administration protocols.
The incumbent collaborates with the State Ministry of Health and the Local Government Area (LGA) management team, providing regular updates on program advancements while ensuring the meticulous execution of the SMC initiative in high-burden Gas.
The teaching assistant will facilitate in-class activities, lead discussion sections, and provide support during lectures. They will prepare materials for assignments, grade papers, and offer constructive feedback to students. Additionally, the TA will hold office hours to address student inquiries and assist with grading rubrics. Strong communication skills and a solid understanding of the course material are essential, along with the ability to collaborate effectively with the lead instructor.
Program implementation entails overseeing the execution, monitoring, and administration of treatment initiatives to ensure adherence to established protocols and achievement of desired outcomes. This role involves meticulous tracking of treatment progress and comprehensive management of program activities to maintain operational efficiency and effectiveness.
Facilitate the seamless execution of all Supply Chain Management (SMC) initiatives at the health Local Government Area (LGA) level by ensuring timely execution of the work plan, organizing planning meetings, coordinating commodity distributions, and conducting rigorous monitoring to prevent stock outs. Additionally, oversee community mobilization efforts, provide on-site supervision, conduct performance evaluations, and prepare comprehensive reports to track progress and adherence to objectives.
Collaborate closely with the LGA Field Officer or Cluster Supervisor to maintain accountability for received commodities and supplies by monitoring consumption levels and examining reconciliation reports.
Facilitate the enhancement of capabilities among field partners—including Supervisors, Health Facility Workers (HFWs), Community Drug Distributors/Community Health Workers (CDDs/CHWs), Lead Mothers (LMs), and community mobilizers—by delivering hands-on mentorship and rigorous oversight to ensure high-quality performance.
Monitor progress against program objectives and execute planned activities promptly to meet established targets, ensuring alignment with program goals. Additionally, evaluate reports submitted by Local Government Authorities (Gas) and Health Facility Workers (HFW) for precision and thoroughness before final submission.
Ensure that all activities are executed in strict adherence to established protocols through ongoing monitoring, supervision, and hands-on training for Local Government Areas (Gas), Health Facility Workers (HFWs), and Community Health Workers (CHWs).
Collaborate effectively with Public Health Officers and other stakeholders to conduct home visits and meetings, fostering strong relationships and ensuring the Local Government Authority’s active involvement.
Data Validation & Reporting Oversight: Ensuring the integrity and accuracy of data through rigorous validation processes and comprehensive reporting mechanisms. This role involves meticulously verifying datasets, identifying discrepancies, and implementing corrective actions to maintain high-quality standards. Responsibilities include generating detailed reports, analyzing trends, and providing actionable insights to stakeholders to support informed decision-making and operational efficiency. Proficiency in data analysis tools, attention to detail, and a commitment to precision are essential for success in this position.
Responsible for meticulously evaluating all field implementation reports, identifying areas necessitating improvement, and offering constructive feedback. Upon securing approval from the Local Government Area (LGA) Level, compile and submit the definitive hard copy report to the Program Officer.
Provide support to the Monitoring and Evaluation Officer in addressing data quality concerns, ensuring that identified issues are resolved promptly.
Ensure timely delivery of the End of Cycle Report, success narratives, trip reports, and other relevant documentation to the Program Officer and Senior Program Manager.
You will be responsible for managing coordination efforts and serving as a representative for the team or organization. This includes liaising with various departments, stakeholders, and external partners to ensure seamless collaboration and communication. Additionally, you will act as the primary point of contact to address inquiries, resolve issues, and uphold the organization’s reputation through professional interactions.
Oversee the comprehensive coordination of Local Government Area (LGA) and Health Facility Workers (HFW) supervisors, as well as Community Health Workers (CHWs), throughout training sessions and supervision-related field visits.
Collaborate closely with essential stakeholders and partners—such as the LGA Administrator, State Ministry of Health (MOH), community leaders, and others—to secure their support, endorsement, and active involvement in SMC initiatives while facilitating the resolution of disputes or conflicts as needed.
You will participate in data validation meetings at the Local Government Area (LGA) level, as well as those directed by the LGA cluster supervisor or State project manager.
Forge and sustain collaborative relationships with health and nutrition services, prioritizing referral cases, while closely coordinating with State/LGA NAFDAC focal points.
Perform a range of administrative tasks and additional responsibilities as assigned, ensuring efficient office operations and support for team productivity. Handle correspondence, manage schedules, maintain records, and coordinate meetings while providing general administrative assistance to departments or senior staff. Demonstrate strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment. Proficient in office software, including word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation tools, with excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
Develop individual and team action plans to ensure role complementarities and achieve established treatment targets effectively.
Monitor and track the usage of supplies to ensure accurate follow-up and reporting.
Comprehensive responsibility for overseeing inventory levels to ensure optimal availability for seamless operations across all SMC facilities.
Conduct a thorough physical inventory of all SMC commodities delivered to health facilities at the conclusion of each cycle to verify stock levels and accuracy.
As directed by the line manager, perform any additional tasks as needed to support operational objectives.
Develop and present well-defined deliverables in accordance with project specifications and timelines. Ensure all assigned tasks are completed accurately and efficiently, adhering to established quality standards. Collaborate closely with team members to align deliverables with organizational objectives and stakeholder expectations. Regularly assess progress to identify potential risks or bottlenecks and implement corrective measures as needed. Maintain clear documentation of deliverables, processes, and outcomes to facilitate transparency and accountability.
Comprehensive End of Cycle Reports must be generated and submitted within two business days following implementation.
Handle all aspects of Reverse Logistics for both used and unused SPAN following each cycle.
Ensure timely processing and verification of personnel payments, confirming accuracy and adherence to established schedules to maintain compliance with financial policies and employee satisfaction.
Your responsibilities will include participating in all LGA-level meetings, encompassing planning sessions, Emergency Operations Center (EOC) briefings, and District Vaccination Management (DVM) discussions.
Facilitate the efficient transfer of SPAN shipments from the LGA transit hub to healthcare facilities (HF).
We seek candidates with a minimum of five years of related professional experience and a relevant bachelor’s degree, or an equivalent combination of education and work background. Proficiency in industry-standard software and tools is required, along with strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a track record of leadership in managing projects, teams, or initiatives. Additionally, familiarity with compliance standards and regulatory requirements within the field is highly advantageous.
A minimum of five years of field experience in SMC implementation is required, with a preference for candidates holding a qualification in Clinical Officer, Nursing, Social Science, Science, or any other Public Health-related discipline.
Proficiency in English and fluency in Hausa, Fulani, and/or other indigenous languages are mandatory for this role.
Seasoned professionals with a proven track record in pharmaceutical and commodity supply management, monitoring and evaluation (M&E), and logistics operations are encouraged to apply.
Capable of conveying information clearly and persuasively to diverse stakeholders, such as LGA staff, HFW representatives, and community leaders.
Proficiency in Survey CTO and Microsoft Office suite applications is required.
Proven track record in delivering high-quality supportive supervision and effectively utilizing data to drive decision-making.
go to method of application
To initiate your application, please utilize the provided link(s) on the company’s official website.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND
