Senior Data Security Advisor for Public Health at Semite

Senior Public Health Data Security Advisor (DOS LEAP Global – Zambia) This position involves providing specialized expertise in safeguarding public health data systems within the DOS LEAP Global initiative in Zambia. Key responsibilities include developing and implementing robust data security policies, conducting risk assessments, and ensuring compliance with national and international data protection regulations. The role requires collaboration with global and local stakeholders to design secure data infrastructure, train personnel on cybersecurity best practices, and respond to potential data breach incidents. Candidates must possess advanced knowledge of data encryption, threat detection, and incident response, along with at least five years of experience in public health data management or a related field. Fluency in English and proficiency in additional local languages are advantageous. Who We Are Semite, LLC, a Woman-Owned, SBA-certified 8(a) Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB) located in the Washington, DC metro area, boasts a proven track record of delivering cutting-edge, high-caliber solutions. Since its establishment in 2007, the company has specialized in providing comprehensive technical assistance, expert project management, information technology (IT) services, knowledge management solutions, rigorous monitoring and evaluation, customized training and learning development programs, as well as essential institutional support services. Position Description Global Solutions Ventures (GSV), a collaborative joint-venture between Semite, LLC and Denis Consulting Group, is executing the Long-term Exceptional Technical Assistance Project (LEAP Global). Initially established by USAID to combat infectious diseases—including malaria, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, neglected tropical diseases, and pandemic influenza—LEAP Global transitioned to the U.S. Department of State (DOS) on July 1, 2025. The project focuses on resolving critical human resource challenges encountered by national infectious disease programs within USA-supported countries. This project aims to deploy and integrate specialized technical advisors and subject-matter experts directly into government institutions. Through this embedded approach, LEAP delivers enduring, sustainable lifesaving assistance, enabling host governments to independently oversee and implement critical elements of their infectious disease initiatives while enhancing collaboration between the U.S. Government and the host nation. About the Position The Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZNP HI) is enhancing its digital health infrastructure, with a focus on the Public Health Surveillance and Information Management System (PHS IMS), to facilitate comprehensive public health surveillance, proactive early warning mechanisms, and informed decision-making based on evidence. There is an urgent requirement to establish strong data security, privacy, and governance frameworks due to the growing volumes of sensitive public health data. The Advisor will be responsible for offering technical leadership to safeguard ZNP HI’s digital systems and data assets. The Public Health Data Security Advisor will deliver specialized technical guidance to facilitate critical humanitarian assistance operations in strict adherence to U.S. Presidential Executive Order directives. The advisor’s core responsibility will center on reinforcing data security, privacy, and protection frameworks within ZNP HI and broader One Health systems (which encompass human, animal, and environmental health), ensuring alignment with national and international regulatory standards. Their technical expertise will primarily address the prevention, detection, and response to infectious disease threats that pose risks to public health. This position will be stationed at the Zambia National Public Health Institute, with the Director of Strategic Planning and Information Management serving as the onsite supervisor. Additionally, the advisor will provide weekly and monthly updates to the Senior Public Health Advisor at the U.S. Embassy Lusaka’s Health Coordination Offices. This position aims to evaluate current data security frameworks and associated risks, design and deploy robust data security strategies and policies, enhance system-level safeguards for PHS IMS and related data infrastructures, and cultivate organizational expertise in data security and privacy. Work Location: Zambia Responsibilities Assessment and Risk Analysis Perform an exhaustive evaluation of data security measures to identify potential vulnerabilities and risks. Identify vulnerabilities in: Systems Infrastructure Data flows Policy and Framework Development Develop/update: Data security policies. Data protection guidelines. Access control frameworks. System Security Strengthening Suggest and facilitate the adoption of: Encryption mechanisms. Secure authentication systems. Network security controls. Facilitate seamless integration of data architecture with PHS IMS and the National Health Intelligence Center. Data Governance and Compliance Support development of: Data classification frameworks. You will be responsible for establishing and maintaining data access and sharing protocols. Ensure compliance with: National jurisdictions enforce various legal frameworks, including data protection regulations, which must be adhered to. International standards, including ISO guidelines and GDPR principles (where relevant), serve as the foundational framework for our operations. Policies and guidelines, including the digital health policy, must be adhered to and implemented effectively. Capacity Building Train staff in: Data security best practices. Cybersecurity awareness. Draft standard operating procedures (SOPs) and comprehensive user guidelines to ensure consistent, efficient, and compliant operational practices across all relevant departments and workflows. Monitoring and Incident Response Establish: Data security monitoring systems. Incident response protocols. Identify and address breaches and vulnerabilities in a timely and effective manner. Communications Conduct regular conference calls with stakeholders, the U.S. Embassy, and GHSD Washington to evaluate progress, facilitate collaborative discussions on activities, and resolve emerging issues. As a Public Health Data Security Advisor, you will deliver information and participate in calls or meetings with the State Department or U.S. Embassy upon request. The advisor is responsible for generating and submitting monthly reports to the U.S. Embassy and the U.S. Department of State. REPORTING : The Advisor is responsible for preparing and submitting a comprehensive monthly report to the U.S. Department of State, with the submission deadline set for the 5th of each month. th The advisor is required to submit a weekly progress report to the U.S. Embassy/Department of State—complete with a concise summary of key accomplishments—no later than the same day each week. Furthermore, the advisor will participate in scheduled weekly calls to discuss these updates and provide additional context as needed. Qualifications A Bachelor’s degree in Computing, Data Science, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), or a closely related discipline is required. A Master of Science (Advanced) degree in Information Security, Cybersecurity, Information Systems Management, or a closely related field is required. Experienced professionals with a minimum of 7 to 10 years in data security, cybersecurity, or a closely related field are required. Proficiency in information management systems is highly desirable. Desirable qualifications include a demonstrated background in cybersecurity frameworks, data protection policies, and risk assessments. Proficiency in utilizing Public Health data systems and One Health frameworks is required. Proficiency in utilizing digital health technologies, managing data effectively, and operating information systems tailored for surveillance and reporting purposes is required. Proven expertise in analytical reasoning, systematic monitoring, and outcome evaluation. Proven capability to mobilize and collaborate with donors and partners across diverse sectors, ensuring alignment of technical strategies to meet program objectives. Proficiency in United States Government programming and reporting standards is strongly preferred. Demonstrates exceptional analytical capabilities and adept problem-solving proficiency. Proficient in data security standards and proficient with relevant tools. Proven capability in collaborating effectively with stakeholders across diverse sectors. Demonstrates exceptional ability to communicate clearly and effectively, along with strong aptitude for developing and delivering engaging training programs. Sharing is caring! 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