Senior Program Manager for BiPAP Implementation at Save the Children

Responsabilités

Job Description JOB TITLE: The bCPAP Project Manager TEAM/PROGRAMME: Programme and Operations LOCATION: Lusaka GRADE : NAT 3 POST TYPE: National Safeguarding : Save the Children upholds a strict zero-tolerance policy against any form of exploitation, abuse, or harassment directed at individuals. Every employee and representative bears the responsibility of safeguarding all individuals who interact with the organization. The organization pledges to enforce consistent standards across all staff members, subjecting them to identical procedures irrespective of their role, influence, or standing within or beyond the organization. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Save the Children International is committed to upholding its Diversity Policy, which fosters an inclusive hiring environment while strictly prohibiting discrimination based on factors such as sex, age, social class, disability, HIV status, religion, race, and ethnicity. Save the Children International (SCI) stands as the foremost independent nonprofit dedicated to advancing the welfare of children worldwide. Its vision is to foster a global society where every child can fully realize their inherent rights to survival, safeguarding, growth, and involvement. SCI’s mission is to drive transformative progress in how children are treated globally, ensuring both immediate and enduring improvements in their lives. Since establishing its presence in Zambia in 1983, the organization has implemented impactful initiatives spanning Child Rights Governance, Health and Nutrition, Child Protection, Education, Child Poverty, and Humanitarian Response. Save the Children, in collaboration with Vāyu Global Health and the Ministry of Health (MOH), and with financial support from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Charities (LDSC), is set to launch an initiative aimed at (complete the sentence based on the original document). Professional Rewriting: To enhance the quality of care for preterm and critically ill infants in Zambia, we are seeking dedicated professionals to join our initiative. The initiative seeks to lower neonatal mortality rates at healthcare facilities by enhancing respiratory care through the adoption of bubble Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP), optimizing referral and transfer protocols for critically ill newborns, and building the capabilities of healthcare staff in Lusaka, Central, and Southern Provinces. Implementation will occur across ten district-level public health facilities equipped with operational 24-hour inpatient newborn care units. The intervention will reinforce the standard of care for small and sick newborns by integrating evidence-based clinical practices, strengthening health systems, conducting targeted capacity-building and mentorship programs, implementing quality improvement initiatives, and ensuring the sustainable incorporation of BiPAP services into routine newborn care protocols. ROLE PURPOSE The Project Manager will spearhead leadership, strategic planning, and coordination efforts to ensure the successful execution of the project. They will oversee all implementation phases, providing clear direction and maintaining rigorous oversight throughout the process. Additionally, the role will involve aligning resources, managing timelines, and mitigating risks to achieve project objectives efficiently. We are seeking to enhance the quality of care provided to small and critically ill newborns. This initiative aims to improve health outcomes for these vulnerable infants by implementing specialized medical interventions and support systems. Candidates for this role should possess a strong background in neonatal care, experience with high-risk deliveries, and proficiency in advanced resuscitation techniques. Responsibilities include monitoring vital signs, administering specialized treatments, collaborating with multidisciplinary healthcare teams, and ensuring adherence to evidence-based protocols to optimize newborn health and development. Regular collaboration with the Health and Nutrition Technical Lead, Senior Management Team, PDQ, Awards, Finance, Supply Chain, Human Resources, and MEAL teams is required to guarantee quality implementation, expedite decision-making, optimize resource allocation, and successfully meet project objectives. The Project Manager will exhibit robust leadership capabilities, proficiency in program management, expertise in partnership development, technical coordination, and mentorship, while fostering innovation, adaptive management, learning, and ongoing improvement across the project lifecycle. SCOPE OF ROLE: Reports to Head of Program Operations This senior leadership position oversees the strategic planning, execution, and continuous improvement of all program operations. The role involves directing cross-functional teams, managing budgets, and ensuring adherence to organizational policies and regulatory standards. Key responsibilities include leading program development, coordinating stakeholder engagement, and implementing performance metrics to drive efficiency. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in operations management, strong analytical skills, and the ability to lead transformative initiatives within a dynamic environment. The position requires supervising a team of professionals who report directly to this role. : (2) Indirect: Budget Responsibilities As the primary financial steward for the “Better Care for Small and Sick Newborns in Zambia” initiative, you will oversee and manage the allocated budget to ensure optimal resource allocation and financial accountability. KEY AREAS OF ACCOUNTABILITY: 1.Technical Leadership Provide strategic leadership to oversee project implementation across all supported provinces, districts, and facilities by developing annual work plans, implementation schedules, budgets, and performance targets aligned with project objectives. This role ensures the timely delivery of project outputs, outcomes, and milestones through effective planning and execution. Adaptively manage the project by consistently evaluating implementation performance and incorporating emerging evidence to ensure alignment with national newborn health priorities and donor requirements. Coordinate cross-functional technical teams to drive the integrated delivery of evidence-based newborn clinical services, quality enhancement initiatives, MEAL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning), and other operational functions, with a focus on sustaining and advancing project performance via robust data management practices. Lead the comprehensive execution of project objectives by transforming them into actionable implementation strategies that yield tangible health outcomes. Ensure adherence to approved work plans, budgets, milestones, and contractual obligations while maintaining high-quality delivery throughout the project lifecycle. To ensure project activities remain aligned with Ministry of Health priorities, donor expectations, and Save the Children program quality standards, strategic oversight will be provided. Ensure that gender equality, safeguarding, disability inclusion, and child rights are fully integrated into all aspects of implementation. As an authorized representative, you will engage in technical working groups, steering committees, and coordination meetings on behalf of Save the Children, ensuring full acknowledgment of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ contributions to the project. A meticulously crafted and promptly executed program phased budget, in strict accordance with the DIP, must be established and maintained. To ensure program implementation achieves the monthly financial performance target, which requires a 100% burn rate, and to maintain annual spending at or below 100% of the life of award budget. Ensure strict adherence to all established financial policies and regulations concerning cash flow management, expenditure controls, cash management, accounting information, and advances management, as mandated for the effective oversight and control of funds. This responsibility extends to ensuring that staff and partners comply with these guidelines when executing various program activities. Monthly team meetings are convened to strategize and evaluate the progress of program implementation. Financial oversight is crucial, and you’ll be responsible for upholding robust financial management and accountability in strict compliance with SCI’s established policy guidelines. This role demands a strong focus on proactive forecasting, meticulous monitoring, and accurate tracking of both planned and actual expenditures against committed obligations. Your efforts will ensure fiscal integrity, transparency, and alignment with organizational objectives. Program Planning and Implementation Management involves overseeing the strategic development and execution of programs to ensure alignment with organizational objectives. This role requires meticulous coordination of resources, stakeholders, and timelines to deliver successful outcomes. Key responsibilities include defining program scope, setting milestones, allocating budgets, and monitoring progress to mitigate risks and optimize efficiency. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong leadership in driving cross-functional collaboration, adhering to best practices, and achieving measurable results. Spearhead the execution of all project components, ensuring seamless integration and adherence to established timelines and quality standards. Ensure the timely preparation and submission of high-quality annual program plans, each accompanied by a phased budget that aligns with the objectives outlined in the Country Office Country Strategic Plan (CSP). To ensure all program operations align with the approved annual plan, phased budget, detailed implementation plans (DIP), and procurement plan. Offers strategic leadership and specialized design skills in the meticulous application of Social and Behavior Change Communication theory, practice, principles, and cutting-edge best practices to deliver tangible outcomes for critically ill newborns. Maintain a current and comprehensive repository of approved resources available for sharing with partners to facilitate collaborative learning. Lead the execution of competency-based capacity strengthening initiatives, including the management of Training of Trainers (TOT) implementation models that utilize cascaded onsite Low Dose High Frequency (LDHF) training and mentorship programs to ensure sustained institutional capacity building. Our role involves cultivating leadership skills among facility champions to drive well-aligned, lasting evidence-based quality improvement projects by establishing and empowering functional facility QI teams. Lead the proactive establishment of project baselines, conduct comprehensive facility readiness evaluations, enhance organizational capacity, and develop strategic procurement plans. In collaboration with the MEAL team, assist in the regular monitoring, evaluation, and translation of newborn process and data to ensure alignment with the project’s strategic objectives. 3. Partner Management Cultivate and sustain productive partnerships through consistent engagement and collaboration, ensuring mutual benefits and alignment with organizational objectives. Collaborating closely with the Ministry of Health at every level of leadership and responsibility, the role focuses on securing national alignment, fostering government ownership, and ensuring long-term sustainability. The position entails overseeing operations beyond the active implementation phase of projects. Collaborate with Vāyu Global Health to deliver specialized technical guidance on BiPAP equipment and coordinate with volunteer clinicians from Church to facilitate targeted training and mentorship initiatives. As a technical collaborator, you will partner with the Pediatric Association of Zambia (PAZ) and key academic institutions to enhance the execution of newborn and pediatric care interventions, ensuring their high-quality implementation. Collaborate with pertinent program personnel to conduct legal vetting and capacity assessments for all implementing partners before they initiate collaboration with Save the Children. Establish and maintain robust engagement protocols with all partners, ensuring they are bound by suitable agreements. Implement and oversee effective monitoring systems to guarantee partner performance aligns with donor expectations and compliance requirements. Represent Save the Children in technical working groups, steering committees, and coordination meetings, fully acknowledging The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ contributions to the project. Budgeting and Financial Management Responsibilities include developing, monitoring, and managing budgets to ensure financial stability and alignment with organizational goals. This role involves analyzing financial data, forecasting trends, and preparing detailed financial reports for stakeholders. Additionally, the position requires overseeing expenditure, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations and policies. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in financial software are essential for success in this role. Responsible for overseeing the financial and budgetary management of all programs, ensuring accurate tracking of expenditures, revenue projections, and adherence to allocated funds. This role involves developing and maintaining comprehensive financial plans, monitoring budget performance, and providing strategic recommendations to optimize resource allocation. Additionally, the position requires meticulous financial reporting, compliance with regulatory standards, and collaboration with stakeholders to align financial objectives with organizational goals. A quality and timely program phased budget, aligned with the DIP, must be established and maintained. To guarantee that program execution aligns with the prescribed monthly financial performance benchmark of a 100% burn rate, while also ensuring that annual expenditures do not exceed the total allocated budget for the duration of the award. Ensure strict adherence to all established financial policies and regulations governing cash flow management, expenditure controls, cash handling, accounting information, and advances management, as these measures are implemented to oversee and regulate fund utilization for program activities by both staff and partners. Monthly team gatherings are convened to strategize and evaluate the implementation of program rollouts. Financial oversight will involve establishing and maintaining robust financial controls, ensuring strict adherence to SCI’s established policies and procedures. This role demands diligent forecasting, continuous monitoring, and precise tracking of planned expenditures against actual obligations to uphold accountability and optimize resource allocation. Conduct audits to verify strict adherence to donor regulations and ensure compliance without disruption. 5 . MEAL and Program Reporting. Deliver high-quality program design and study processes punctually, encompassing baseline assessments, research activities, and Edline evaluations. To guarantee compliance with and fulfillment of all prescribed quality standards, the program must be meticulously developed and maintained. Collaborate with MEAL specialists and project mentors to establish a structured learning and project documentation plan. Facilitate structured pause and reflection sessions to assess current performance and identify potential adjustments required to meet project objectives. Integrate accountability frameworks seamlessly into every facet of program management, encompassing information dissemination, beneficiary involvement—particularly children’s participation—and rigorous collection and management of complaints and feedback. This must be executed in close coordination with MEAL staff to uphold transparency and continuous improvement. Regular oversight of program outcomes, comprehensive documentation of initiatives, development of case studies, identification of lessons learned, tracking of significant changes, and promotion of best practices are required. Additionally, you will coordinate learning and reflection sessions/meetings to foster continuous improvement. Implement and maintain robust systems for monitoring and evaluating program functionality. Ensure that monthly program progress reports and end-of-fiscal-year reports are submitted punctually, adhering strictly to established reporting schedules, formats, and guidelines while maintaining the highest standards of quality. Thoroughly investigate and resolve all issues highlighted within the reports without delay. Assist in evaluating, consolidating, and documenting program outcomes and findings in partnership with the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) team, while integrating key insights from experiences into current operational strategies. Prepare and submit regular project reports in accordance with the established reporting guidelines and requirements. 6. Building and maintaining strategic relationships, engaging with key stakeholders, and leveraging influence to advance organizational objectives through effective advocacy and collaboration. Spearheads and provides guidance on district-level advocacy initiatives aimed at supporting children and other vulnerable populations within the Impact Area. Collaborate closely with PDQ to pinpoint, cultivate, and spearhead localized advocacy initiatives that are fully aligned with the organization’s overarching advocacy strategy. Develops strategic networks, coalitions, and alliances to advance key advocacy initiatives central to project objectives. Constructs and maintains a strategic database comprising networks and partnerships essential for advocacy efforts. Integrate advocacy for children into program and project operations and plans to ensure comprehensive support and representation. Formulate strategies to foster collaborative initiatives throughout the district. Capture and systematically record insights and key takeaways derived from advocacy interactions and engagements. Collaborate effectively with district partners, including the District Health Office, to align district strategies and interventions with the country’s strategic plan while enhancing organizational visibility. This involves actively participating in key district, sub-national, and select national meetings that have been mutually agreed upon for advocacy purposes. 7. Child Safeguarding. Collaborate closely with designated Child Safeguarding Focal Points to guarantee comprehensive training in Child Safeguarding for all Country Office personnel. Diligently examine documents and agreements to verify that all partners, contractors, visitors, volunteers, and other stakeholders adhere to CS and code of conduct standards. SKILLS AND Behaviors: APPLYING OUR CORE VALUES We are seeking candidates who embody our organizational values through their professional competencies and interpersonal conduct. Proficiency in communication, problem-solving, and adaptability is essential, as is a commitment to teamwork and ethical integrity. Successful applicants will demonstrate these qualities consistently in their approach to work and collaboration with colleagues. BEHAVIOURS (Values in Practice ) Accountability: Demonstrates personal accountability by making informed decisions, optimizing resource utilization, and consistently achieving objectives while upholding and exemplifying Save the Children’s core values. The role is responsible for ensuring team members and partners fulfill their obligations, fostering autonomy in their execution methods, offering targeted development to enhance performance, and enforcing proportional consequences when objectives remain unmet. Ambition: This individual establishes high, demanding objectives for both themselves and their team, demonstrates accountability for their ongoing professional growth, and fosters a culture of continuous improvement within the team. Experienced professionals at Save the Children enthusiastically communicate their strategic vision, fostering a culture of motivation and engagement among colleagues. They actively inspire and rally teams around shared objectives, ensuring alignment with the organization’s mission. Strategically minded and forward-thinking, with a strong ability to envision and execute initiatives on a global scale. Collaboration: Develops and cultivates robust professional relationships with team members, colleagues, Members, and external partners and supporters to ensure cohesive collaboration and alignment. Embraces diversity, recognizing it as a key driver of competitive advantage. You are an excellent communicator, both in one-on-one interactions and group settings, demonstrating strong interpersonal skills. Your ability to listen attentively and respond thoughtfully fosters a collaborative and supportive work environment. Creativity: Devises and fosters novel, inventive approaches to address challenges. Capable of making calculated, well-considered decisions that involve taking measured risks while maintaining a sense of responsibility. Integrity: Demonstrates unwavering integrity, fostering an environment characterized by honesty and transparency. QUALIFICATIONS A bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Social Sciences, Nursing, or a closely related health discipline is required. A postgraduate qualification in Public Health or a closely related discipline is highly advantageous. We are seeking a seasoned professional with a minimum of five to seven years of hands-on experience in spearheading implementation initiatives and overseeing their management. Established professional networks and prior collaborations with major multilateral organizations and bilateral donors within donor-funded initiatives are required.

EXPERIENCE

AND SKILLS Essential A degree in Public Health, Nursing, Midwifery, Clinical Medicine, or a closely related health discipline is required. A minimum of five years of project management experience at the mid-management level or above is required. Revised: Experience collaborating with donor-funded initiatives and engaging with prominent multilateral organizations and bilateral donors is required. Proven capability to operate effectively within a diverse health development initiative, partnering with Ministry of Health (MOH) staff at provincial, district, and health facility levels, as well as collaborating with local stakeholders. Professional registration with the appropriate regulatory authority in Zambia is required. Proficiency in leveraging data and evidence to inform strategic prioritization, decision-making processes, and the precise targeting of interventions is required. Accomplished in leading and inspiring teams to drive performance and achieve outcomes. Financial, planning, and budget management expertise is essential for this role. Demonstrated expertise in fostering cultural sensitivity and thriving in multicultural, international settings, collaborating effectively with individuals from varied backgrounds and perspectives. A thorough understanding of both international and local policies and regulatory frameworks within their specific area of expertise is required. Holding a recognized certification or demonstrating substantial hands-on experience in project management methodologies is essential. Experienced in cultivating impactful partnerships, enhancing team dynamics, and facilitating seamless collaborative execution. Demonstrates a track record of successfully designing and executing comprehensive program work plans, while also providing leadership and coordination for field staff responsible for their implementation. Capable of thriving in dynamic, multifaceted settings while managing competing priorities, stringent deadlines, and high-performance expectations. Demonstrated capability to operate autonomously as well as lead or collaborate within cross-functional teams comprising various partners and stakeholders. Proficient in both verbal and written communication, as well as delivering impactful presentations, with strong interpersonal abilities. Proficient in computer operations and possesses extensive experience utilizing Microsoft Office applications. Fluency in both spoken and written English is a prerequisite for this role. Demonstrated ability to lead teams effectively, think strategically, and organize tasks efficiently. Proven capacity for building cohesive teams and representing the organization with professionalism and confidence. Demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the Zambian healthcare system. Professional Experience in Central, Lusaka, and Southern Provinces is required. Additional job responsibilities The responsibilities and duties outlined above are not exhaustive, and the position may entail additional tasks deemed reasonable based on the individual’s skill set and professional background. APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: Applicants who meet the necessary qualifications are required to submit a cover letter along with an updated curriculum vitae. The deadline for submitting applications is Tuesday 11 th August 2026 Shortlisted candidates exclusively will receive notification. Save the Children reserves the discretion to repost this position if no qualified candidates are identified. Save the Children is committed to equal opportunity and affirmative action principles. We do not discriminate against individuals based on race, color, religion, gender, national or ethnic origin, or age. Additionally, we do not consider marital status in employment decisions. Furthermore, we ensure that no fees are required at any stage of the hiring process or thereafter. Version: We encourage collaboration and community engagement. Please use the icons provided below to share this opportunity with others.

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