JOB SUMMARY
The Technical Director provides the strategic and technical vision for strengthening Nigeria's health security infrastructure. They will lead the technical implementation of IHR-focused activities, ensuring they align with the latest JEE recommendations and global best practices in disease surveillance and outbreak response. The Technical Director is a member of the Senior Management Team and reports to the Project Director (Chief of Party). This position will be based in Nigeria.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Set the overall technical direction for IHR capacity building, focusing on closing gaps identified in Nigeria's 2023 Joint External Evaluation (JEE).
Provide technical oversight to the NCDC and relevant MDAs to improve multi-sectoral response efforts and national health security.
Oversee the performance of technical activities related to laboratory systems, surveillance, and emergency operations centers (EOCs).
Promote collaboration between the NCDC, sub-national health authorities, and international partners to ensure a unified approach to global health security.
With the Project Director, lead the development of annual technical work plans and ensure activities meet CDC compliance and reporting standards.
Manage a team of technical specialists in areas such as epidemiology, One Health, and workforce development.
Coordinate with the MEL Director to ensure adaptive learning processes are used to adjust technical strategies based on real-time surveillance data.
Ensure all technical interventions comply with CDC operational policies, Nigerian national guidelines, and IHR (2005) standards.
QUALIFICATIONS
Advanced degree (MD, PhD, or Master's) in Public Health, Epidemiology, Infectious Diseases, or a related field.
Minimum of 10 years of experience in global health security, disease surveillance, or IHR implementation, preferably in West Africa, preferably Nigeria.
Demonstrated success in managing large-scale public health programs and working directly with national public health institutes (like NCDC).
Proven ability to form partnerships with governments in LMICs and work with local partners and stakeholders in national and sub-national capacities.
Demonstrated experience leading and mentoring teams of high performing technical experts.
Experience working in partnership with U.S. Government agencies, international donors, or other multilateral agencies required.
Fluency in English and local language(s) (e.g. Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo, etc.) with strong oral and written communication.
Comfort and familiarity with representing the Project and JSI at external events, technical working groups, and international forums, preferred.