Associate Program Director – Health Systems Strengthening

About the role

The Associate Program Director, Health Systems Strengthening (HSS) will lead CHAI Zambia’s HSS cluster, overseeing a portfolio of interventions that strengthen the Zambian health system across multiple building blocks. Reporting to the Country Director, this senior position guides strategy, implementation, and partnership engagement to improve health workforce, financing, assistive technology, medical oxygen, and related areas.

Key responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership for the HSS cluster, ensuring alignment with CHAI’s global mission and Zambia’s national health priorities.
• Develop and execute strategic plans for health workforce development, health financing mechanisms, assistive technology deployment, and medical oxygen supply.
• Manage and mentor a multidisciplinary team, fostering collaboration across program areas.
• Engage with government ministries, donors, and private‑sector partners to secure resources and drive policy change.
• Monitor program performance, produce high‑quality reports, and ensure data‑driven decision‑making.
• Represent CHAI in national and regional forums on health systems strengthening.

Required profile

• Advanced degree in public health, health policy, health economics, or a related field.
• Extensive experience (typically 8+ years) in health systems strengthening, preferably in low‑ and middle‑income country contexts.
• Proven track record of leading large, multi‑component health programs.
• Strong understanding of Zambian health system structures and policies.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder‑engagement skills.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to shape health systems at scale in Zambia.
• Collaborative, mission‑driven work environment.
• Professional development and mentorship within a global health organization.