Employer: International Rescue Committee
Scope of Work
The Health Coordinator will provide leadership, strategic vision and technical support to all aspects of the health programs in Northeast Syria. S/he will contribute to the identification of programmatic priorities, design and direction of the program. In addition, s/he will ensure that the health program is implemented in accordance with international protocols, guidelines and best practices. S/he will promote the quality of care provided through the IRC health services. This position supervises the senior health manager, pharmaceutical manager and health information systems (HIS) manager and reports to the Deputy Director of Programs.
Responsibilities
1. Program Quality & Implementation
• Provide technical and management leadership to all health programs in Northeast Syria in accordance with best practice and IRC policy
• Support the development and maintenance of a coherent health strategy across all health interventions in Northeast Syria
• Identify unmet needs in the health sector in the selected area and identify potential means for the IRC to address those needs. Conduct needs assessments both a facilities and communities’ level, as and when required
• Coordinate and develop plans, proposals, concept notes and budgets for new projects and extensions of projects in conjunction with the Northeast Syria senior management and grants
• Overall responsible for the effective and efficient management of project implementation consistent with the project management cycle, program objectives, activities and indicators
• Adhere to the global IRC Outcomes and Evidence Framework (OEF) by training health staff about the OEF and Northeast Syria prioritized health outcomes, incorporating the relevant theory of change (TOCs) in new proposals, and identifying the required new measures, indicators, data collection tools and methods
• Ensure that health programs utilize standardized protocols, policies and guidelines, as prescribed by the local Ministry of Health, leading agencies and WHO. Ensure that all health activities are consistent with established best practices
• Ensure that health interventions adhere to donor agreements and IRC’s core policy documents and guidelines, including the Program Framework, IRC’s Design, Management & Evaluation guide and log-frame, IRC’s Health Unit policies and guidelines (Minimum and Core indicators, HIV strategy etc)
• Ensure robust monitoring systems are in place and that reviews are undertaken periodically in conjunction with the team, project partners and relevant local stakeholders
• Adapt and develop where necessary functional health systems including health information, drug management, and infection control, staffing plans and referral systems
• Maintain regular communication, coordination and collaboration with other IRC sectors including economic recovery and development (ERD), integrated protection (WPE, protection and rule of law, child protection) and early childhood development (ECD), and explore the opportunities for programs integration and consistency
• Work collaboratively to integrate the community health component with other program sectors where appropriate
• Ensure regular communication with Health Unit technical staff through the country health TA for feedback, technical support, updates and guidance as required
2. Grants Management and Reporting
• Review progress in achieving program objectives and targets in collaboration with the program managers
• In coordination with the DDP and Grants team, participate in grants opening, review and closing meetings
• Review technical aspects of internal and external reports prepared by the managers within agreed deadlines using IRC and donor formats, as required
• Prepare and implement detailed program spending, procurement and work plans for the health projects
• Provide support and oversight to program managers on programmatic spending, tracking Budget vs. Actual reports and ensuring no over or underspending
• Develop and adapt the health quality assurance tools and ensure effective and high quality reporting, monitoring and evaluation systems for both internal and external use, capturing best practice to support program decision making
3. Staff Management & Development
• Deliver and execute a plan to hire, train and build the capacity of staff including developing and overseeing the implementation of health providers capacity building program
• Maintain open and professional relations with team members, promoting a strong team spirit and providing oversight and guidance to enable staff to successfully perform in their positions along with on-job staff mentoring
• Conduct regular communication and program monitoring meetings with program managers
• Supervise and mentor direct-report staff, including communicating clear expectations, setting performance objectives, providing regular and timely performance feedback, and providing documented semi-annual performance reviews
• If/as required identify staff performance issues and work with Human Resources to document and address these in accordance with Staff Employment Policies
• Coach, train, and mentor staff with the aim of strengthening their technical capacity, exchanging knowledge within the team and providing professional development guidance
• Arrange regular meetings with the health teams and conduct field visits to assess program performance and meet the line providers
• Promote and monitor staff care and well-being; approve and manage all leave requests to ensure adequate coverage
• Overall responsibility for the health organizational chart, staff work-plans, work and vacation schedules, and staff training/development activities
• Adhere to and act in accordance with the IRC Global HR Policies and Procedures
4. Partner Management
• Identify implementing partners when necessary and oversee the IRC-partner relations
• Ensure regular performance monitoring of partners to achieve the set project’s objectives, and provide technical support and guidance
• Conduct partner assessments to understand and plan for the technical capacity building support
• Ensure regular capacity building activities for partner organizations along with close monitoring of performance improvement and training uptake
• Arrange regular meetings with implementing partners to discuss the program implementation cycle and understand the challenges and barriers that might delay the progress
5. Staff Management and Capacity Building
• Develop training and capacity building plans for the health team.
• Supervise and mentor direct-report staff, including communicating clear expectations, setting performance objectives, providing regular and timely performance feedback, and providing documented semi-annual performance reviews.
• As part of a succession plan, identify, train, and develop capability and capacity of a national staff to successfully transition role and responsibilities, by end of assignment.
• Provide constructive feedback and counsel on appropriate career paths and professional development.
• Promote and monitor staff care and well-being; approve and manage all leave requests to ensure adequate coverage.
6. Coordination & Representation
• Develop and maintain effective coordination and long-term relationships with external stakeholders in the health sector, representing IRC positions, promoting the program strategy and resolving problems/conflicts
• Coordinate regularly with the DDP and field staff regarding program risk and issue, develop contingency planning, and identify new program opportunities and coordination mechanisms
• Maintain coordination and collaboration with finance, operations to ensure coordination of procurement and supplies and that purchases are made within budget targets
Other
• Contribute to the development of and realization of the Northeast Syria Strategy Action Plan
• Lead sector specific strategy development and technical proposal design
• Consistently and proactively monitor/assess the safety and security of the team; promptly reporting concerns or incidents to IRC management and liaising with community leaders and other external parties as required to maintain/enhance the security environment for IRC programs
• Other duties as assigned by the supervisor to enable and develop IRC programs
Qualifications
• Public health professional preferably with a clinical background such as doctor, nurse or allied health professional but not necessary
• Minimum of 5 years professional experience in management of health emergencies and program delivery, INGO experience required. Prior experience working in complex emergency settings or insecure environments preferred
• Proven ability to adapt and develop where necessary functional primary healthcare systems and services that can include: reproductive health, child health, communicable diseases, non-communicable diseases, health information, drug management, infection control, referral systems, etc
• Strong program/technical and budget management skills, planning, reporting, monitoring and evaluation skills
• Strong written and oral communication skills, effective in representation and liaison with external parties.
• Must be capable of applying their skills and knowledge in a range of capacities, including direct implementation, advisory functions, training and the transfer of technical knowledge and management skills to others
• Personal qualities: Works well in and promotes teamwork, comfortable in a multi-cultural environment, flexible and able to handle pressure well
• Fluency in English required. Arabic an asset but not required
Work Environment: The position will be based in Derek, Northeast Syria, currently a low security risk and a comfortable environment. Shared housing will be provided. Frequent travel required to field locations and program implementation areas in Northeast Syria, access and security permitting.
Returning National Candidates: We strongly encourage national or returning national candidates to apply for this position. If you are a Syrian national and are currently located outside of your home country and possess over two years of international work experience, the Middle East Region has introduced an attractive remuneration package. The package includes competitive compensation, return flight to post, shipping allowance, temporary housing and a relocation allowance. Certain restrictions may apply. IRC strives to attract, motivate and retain qualified national staff in our programs.
The IRC and IRC workers must adhere to the values and principles outlined in IRC Way - Standards for Professional Conduct. These are Integrity, Service, Accountability and Equality. In accordance with these values, the IRC operates and enforces policies on Beneficiary Protection from Exploitation and Abuse, Child Safeguarding, Anti Workplace Harassment, Fiscal Integrity, and Anti-Retaliation.
Apply Now
Location: Derek, Syria
Employment Type: Full-Time
Open to Expatriates: Yes
Employment Type: Full-Time
Open to Expatriates: Yes
Scope of Work
The Health Coordinator will provide leadership, strategic vision and technical support to all aspects of the health programs in Northeast Syria. S/he will contribute to the identification of programmatic priorities, design and direction of the program. In addition, s/he will ensure that the health program is implemented in accordance with international protocols, guidelines and best practices. S/he will promote the quality of care provided through the IRC health services. This position supervises the senior health manager, pharmaceutical manager and health information systems (HIS) manager and reports to the Deputy Director of Programs.
Responsibilities
1. Program Quality & Implementation
• Provide technical and management leadership to all health programs in Northeast Syria in accordance with best practice and IRC policy
• Support the development and maintenance of a coherent health strategy across all health interventions in Northeast Syria
• Identify unmet needs in the health sector in the selected area and identify potential means for the IRC to address those needs. Conduct needs assessments both a facilities and communities’ level, as and when required
• Coordinate and develop plans, proposals, concept notes and budgets for new projects and extensions of projects in conjunction with the Northeast Syria senior management and grants
• Overall responsible for the effective and efficient management of project implementation consistent with the project management cycle, program objectives, activities and indicators
• Adhere to the global IRC Outcomes and Evidence Framework (OEF) by training health staff about the OEF and Northeast Syria prioritized health outcomes, incorporating the relevant theory of change (TOCs) in new proposals, and identifying the required new measures, indicators, data collection tools and methods
• Ensure that health programs utilize standardized protocols, policies and guidelines, as prescribed by the local Ministry of Health, leading agencies and WHO. Ensure that all health activities are consistent with established best practices
• Ensure that health interventions adhere to donor agreements and IRC’s core policy documents and guidelines, including the Program Framework, IRC’s Design, Management & Evaluation guide and log-frame, IRC’s Health Unit policies and guidelines (Minimum and Core indicators, HIV strategy etc)
• Ensure robust monitoring systems are in place and that reviews are undertaken periodically in conjunction with the team, project partners and relevant local stakeholders
• Adapt and develop where necessary functional health systems including health information, drug management, and infection control, staffing plans and referral systems
• Maintain regular communication, coordination and collaboration with other IRC sectors including economic recovery and development (ERD), integrated protection (WPE, protection and rule of law, child protection) and early childhood development (ECD), and explore the opportunities for programs integration and consistency
• Work collaboratively to integrate the community health component with other program sectors where appropriate
• Ensure regular communication with Health Unit technical staff through the country health TA for feedback, technical support, updates and guidance as required
2. Grants Management and Reporting
• Review progress in achieving program objectives and targets in collaboration with the program managers
• In coordination with the DDP and Grants team, participate in grants opening, review and closing meetings
• Review technical aspects of internal and external reports prepared by the managers within agreed deadlines using IRC and donor formats, as required
• Prepare and implement detailed program spending, procurement and work plans for the health projects
• Provide support and oversight to program managers on programmatic spending, tracking Budget vs. Actual reports and ensuring no over or underspending
• Develop and adapt the health quality assurance tools and ensure effective and high quality reporting, monitoring and evaluation systems for both internal and external use, capturing best practice to support program decision making
3. Staff Management & Development
• Deliver and execute a plan to hire, train and build the capacity of staff including developing and overseeing the implementation of health providers capacity building program
• Maintain open and professional relations with team members, promoting a strong team spirit and providing oversight and guidance to enable staff to successfully perform in their positions along with on-job staff mentoring
• Conduct regular communication and program monitoring meetings with program managers
• Supervise and mentor direct-report staff, including communicating clear expectations, setting performance objectives, providing regular and timely performance feedback, and providing documented semi-annual performance reviews
• If/as required identify staff performance issues and work with Human Resources to document and address these in accordance with Staff Employment Policies
• Coach, train, and mentor staff with the aim of strengthening their technical capacity, exchanging knowledge within the team and providing professional development guidance
• Arrange regular meetings with the health teams and conduct field visits to assess program performance and meet the line providers
• Promote and monitor staff care and well-being; approve and manage all leave requests to ensure adequate coverage
• Overall responsibility for the health organizational chart, staff work-plans, work and vacation schedules, and staff training/development activities
• Adhere to and act in accordance with the IRC Global HR Policies and Procedures
4. Partner Management
• Identify implementing partners when necessary and oversee the IRC-partner relations
• Ensure regular performance monitoring of partners to achieve the set project’s objectives, and provide technical support and guidance
• Conduct partner assessments to understand and plan for the technical capacity building support
• Ensure regular capacity building activities for partner organizations along with close monitoring of performance improvement and training uptake
• Arrange regular meetings with implementing partners to discuss the program implementation cycle and understand the challenges and barriers that might delay the progress
5. Staff Management and Capacity Building
• Develop training and capacity building plans for the health team.
• Supervise and mentor direct-report staff, including communicating clear expectations, setting performance objectives, providing regular and timely performance feedback, and providing documented semi-annual performance reviews.
• As part of a succession plan, identify, train, and develop capability and capacity of a national staff to successfully transition role and responsibilities, by end of assignment.
• Provide constructive feedback and counsel on appropriate career paths and professional development.
• Promote and monitor staff care and well-being; approve and manage all leave requests to ensure adequate coverage.
6. Coordination & Representation
• Develop and maintain effective coordination and long-term relationships with external stakeholders in the health sector, representing IRC positions, promoting the program strategy and resolving problems/conflicts
• Coordinate regularly with the DDP and field staff regarding program risk and issue, develop contingency planning, and identify new program opportunities and coordination mechanisms
• Maintain coordination and collaboration with finance, operations to ensure coordination of procurement and supplies and that purchases are made within budget targets
Other
• Contribute to the development of and realization of the Northeast Syria Strategy Action Plan
• Lead sector specific strategy development and technical proposal design
• Consistently and proactively monitor/assess the safety and security of the team; promptly reporting concerns or incidents to IRC management and liaising with community leaders and other external parties as required to maintain/enhance the security environment for IRC programs
• Other duties as assigned by the supervisor to enable and develop IRC programs
Qualifications
• Public health professional preferably with a clinical background such as doctor, nurse or allied health professional but not necessary
• Minimum of 5 years professional experience in management of health emergencies and program delivery, INGO experience required. Prior experience working in complex emergency settings or insecure environments preferred
• Proven ability to adapt and develop where necessary functional primary healthcare systems and services that can include: reproductive health, child health, communicable diseases, non-communicable diseases, health information, drug management, infection control, referral systems, etc
• Strong program/technical and budget management skills, planning, reporting, monitoring and evaluation skills
• Strong written and oral communication skills, effective in representation and liaison with external parties.
• Must be capable of applying their skills and knowledge in a range of capacities, including direct implementation, advisory functions, training and the transfer of technical knowledge and management skills to others
• Personal qualities: Works well in and promotes teamwork, comfortable in a multi-cultural environment, flexible and able to handle pressure well
• Fluency in English required. Arabic an asset but not required
Work Environment: The position will be based in Derek, Northeast Syria, currently a low security risk and a comfortable environment. Shared housing will be provided. Frequent travel required to field locations and program implementation areas in Northeast Syria, access and security permitting.
Returning National Candidates: We strongly encourage national or returning national candidates to apply for this position. If you are a Syrian national and are currently located outside of your home country and possess over two years of international work experience, the Middle East Region has introduced an attractive remuneration package. The package includes competitive compensation, return flight to post, shipping allowance, temporary housing and a relocation allowance. Certain restrictions may apply. IRC strives to attract, motivate and retain qualified national staff in our programs.
The IRC and IRC workers must adhere to the values and principles outlined in IRC Way - Standards for Professional Conduct. These are Integrity, Service, Accountability and Equality. In accordance with these values, the IRC operates and enforces policies on Beneficiary Protection from Exploitation and Abuse, Child Safeguarding, Anti Workplace Harassment, Fiscal Integrity, and Anti-Retaliation.
Apply Now
