Jhpiego Hiring for National Program Officer – Anti-Microbial Resistance and Lab Quality at New Delhi, Delhi Full Time

Overview:
Jhpiego is a non-profit global health leader and Johns Hopkins University affiliate that is saving lives, improving health, and transforming futures. We partner with governments, health experts, and local communities to build the skills and systems that guarantee a healthier future for women and families. Jhpiego translates the best science and practices into moments of care that can mean the difference between life and death for women and families. The moment a woman gives birth; the moment a midwife helps a newborn to breathe. Through our partnerships, we are revolutionizing health care for the world’s most disadvantaged and vulnerable people. In India, Jhpiego works across various states in close collaboration with national and state governments, providing technical assistance in the areas of family planning, maternal and child health, strengthening human resources for health, and non-communicable diseases. These programs are funded by USAID, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the David & Lucile Packard Foundation, the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF), and other anonymous donors.

Jhpiego is seeking a highly motivated and experienced National Program Officer based in New Delhi for its USAID-funded RISE project to lead and coordinate efforts in tackling the growing challenge of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and address laboratory quality-related challenges. The National Program Officer will play a pivotal role in developing, implementing, and monitoring strategies to combat the rising threat of AMR in the country and to improve laboratory quality. The position will work closely with the India country office and state office teams to develop tech-enabled learning solutions and approaches under the USAID-RISE project. The position will report to the Deputy Chief of Party (CoP).

Responsibilities:Strategic Planning and Program Implementation:
Develop and refine program strategies, action plans, and policies to combat AMR, aligning with international guidelines/frameworks and the National AMR Action Plans.

Identify key priorities, gaps, and opportunities in AMR prevention, surveillance, control, and research.

Support intervention states in the development of state AMR action plans and devises implementation strategies and plans

Facilitate and support laboratory strengthening/networking for AMR surveillance at the national and sub-national levels.

Provide hand-holding support and monitor/facilitate the timely achievement of AMR/Lab strengthening/networking/surveillance activities, milestones, and expected outputs.

Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration:
Foster relationships with government agencies, healthcare institutions, research organizations, pharmaceutical companies, and other relevant stakeholders.

Coordinate and facilitate multi-sectoral collaborations to ensure a comprehensive and unified approach to AMR.

Liaise with key stakeholders to develop and implement activities to strengthen One Health surveillance of AMR.

Policy Advocacy:
Support the Chief of Party in developing advocacy strategies and plans for AMR-related policies at the national level, collaborating with policymakers, regulatory bodies, and public health organizations.

Contribute to the development and implementation of regulatory provisions related to the use of antimicrobial agents in healthcare, agriculture, and other sectors.

Laboratory Quality Management

Oversee thorough evaluations of existing laboratory systems to identify areas for improvement.

Elevate laboratory capacities to effectively contribute to zoonoses and Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) surveillance.

Support in the development of assessment checklists, learning resource packages and other knowledge resources for lab quality management.

Implement robust quality management systems, integrating internal audit mechanisms and corrective actions.

Ensure adherence to international quality standards while tailoring strategies to address specific needs.

Create a hub and spoke model to facilitate seamless communication, collaboration, and technical support within the laboratory network.

Surveillance, Monitoring, and Data Analysis:
Oversee the establishment and maintenance of robust AMR surveillance systems, ensuring timely collection, analysis, and reporting of relevant data.

Interpret data trends and provide evidence-based recommendations to inform decision-making.

Organize periodic review meetings to monitor/evaluate AMR activities as per the operational plan.

Capacity Building and Training:
Develop and deliver training programs, workshops, and educational materials to enhance awareness and knowledge of AMR among healthcare professionals and relevant stakeholders.

Research and Innovation:
Support and facilitate research initiatives aimed at understanding the mechanisms of AMR and developing new diagnostic approaches.

Collaborate with research institutions to promote evidence-based interventions and innovations in the field of AMR.

Communication and Advocacy:
Represent the organization in national and international forums, conferences, and meetings related to AMR.

Advocate for increased awareness and understanding of AMR through public outreach campaigns and media engagements as required from time to time

Required Qualifications:
Advanced University (Master’s) Degree in Public Health, Microbiology, Community Medicine, or a related field is required.

A 3 to 5 years of experience in public health, healthcare administration, or related roles, with a strong focus on antimicrobial resistance.

In-depth understanding of the dynamics of AMR, its causes, consequences, and global efforts to combat it.

Proven track record in developing and implementing public health programs, policies, or interventions.

Excellent project management skills, including the ability to manage multiple tasks and stakeholders simultaneously.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret data and make evidence-based recommendations.

Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.

Prior experience in advocacy, policy development, and stakeholder engagement is highly desirable.

Proficiency in relevant computer software and data analysis tools.

Demonstrated leadership qualities and the ability to work effectively in a team.

Familiarity with the Indian public health system, newer initiatives in the health sector, and relevant government policies/ strategies particularly National Health Mission, and Ayushman Bharat

Preferred Qualifications:
Jhpiego is an equal opportunity employer and offers highly dynamic and enabling work environment.

Jhpiego offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive employee benefits package.

Women candidates are encouraged to apply.

Due to high volume of applications, only shortlisted applicants will receive a response from Jhpiego

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