Country Director (Niger)

I. Introduction 

Solina Centre for International Development and Research (SCIDaR) is an indigenous non-profit institution that works to accelerate positive health, social, and economic reforms through high-quality program design and implementation, capacity building, implementation science research and knowledge generation, as well as agenda-setting and stakeholder convening across human development sectors. Our work seeks to benefit primarily disadvantaged and under-served populations. We implement transformation programs in Nigeria and are expanding our footprint to several West and Central African countries. We are building a competent, world-class management team.

As part of its strategic expansion, Solina is establishing operations in Niger to support health system strengthening and development initiatives. To lead this expansion and oversee program implementation, Solina seeks to recruit a Bilingual Country Director (English and French competencies) to provide overall strategic, operational, and technical leadership for the Niger country office.

II. Description and Objectives 

The Country Director will be responsible for Solina’s strategic positioning, operational setup, and program execution in Niger. This role requires a seasoned leader with a deep understanding of public health, health systems strengthening, donor engagement, and business development. The Country Director will oversee all Solina projects in Niger, build relationships with government and donor stakeholders, ensure operational efficiency, and drive business growth.

III. Technical responsibilities and expectations: The Country Director will act in the following capacities:

Program Oversight and Technical Leadership

1. Provide strategic oversight and technical guidance for all Solina projects in Niger, ensuring high-quality implementation and impact. S/he may be required to have a deep focus on a few projects;
2. Lead the design and adaptation of health system-strengthening interventions to the local context;
3. Ensure programmatic excellence by applying best practices in public health, monitoring, and evaluation;
4. Oversee data-driven decision-making to enhance project performance and sustainability.

Operations and Financial Management

1. Establish and operationalize the Solina Niger country office, ensuring compliance with local regulations;
2. Develop and manage the country office budget, ensuring financial accountability and efficiency;
3. Oversee recruitment, capacity building, and performance management of staff in Niger;
4. Ensure adherence to Solina’s policies, donor requirements, and local labour laws.

IV. Stakeholder Engagement and Advocacy

1. Serve as the primary liaison between Solina and government ministries, donors, and implementing partners;
2. Represent Solina in national and regional forums, contributing to policy discussions and knowledge sharing;
3. Develop strategic partnerships to enhance Solina’s impact and sustainability in Niger.

V. Required Skills and Competencies 

Problem-Solving

1. Ability to think critically and strategically to solve complex problems;
2. Creative approach to developing innovative and evidence-based solutions for maternal health challenges;
3. Strong decision-making skills supported by thorough analysis and evaluation;
4. Ability to manage and utilize data effectively for project planning and evaluation.

Communication

1. Proficiency in French and English (spoken and written) is required.
2. Excellent ability to build and maintain strong relationships with clients and stakeholders;
3. Effective in preparing and delivering compelling presentations to diverse audiences;
4. Strong writing skills for creating reports, proposals, and other project documentation.

Computer Skills

Proficiency in project management software and tools, data analysis tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.

Professionalism and Personal Leadership

1. Strong ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and external partners
2. Skilled in negotiating with stakeholders to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes
3. Awareness and sensitivity to cultural differences and the ability to work effectively in diverse environments
4. Strong attention to detail to ensure high-quality deliverables
5. Ability to adapt to changing circumstances and remain effective under pressure and flexible to respond to new challenges and opportunities;
6. Exceptional ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively.

Team Leadership

1. Ability to develop and articulate a clear vision for the SRH portfolio and inspire team members to achieve goals.
2. Strong skills in mentoring, coaching, and developing junior staff
3. Proven expertise in planning, executing, and overseeing projects to successful completion

Firm Leadership

1. Proficiency in managing project budgets and ensuring financial accountability;
2. Ability to identify opportunities for cost savings and optimize resource use;
3. Commitment to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and ethical behaviour and ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and confidentiality.

VI. Education and Experience

Academic training: Master’s degree in public health, health policy, international development, business administration, or a related field.

Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in public health, health systems strengthening, or international development, with at least 5 years in a leadership role;
• Proven track record in donor engagement, business development, and program management;
• Strong understanding of the health and development landscape in Niger and the West African region;
• Experience managing large-scale donor-funded programs, including USAID, Global Fund, World Bank, and other international agencies;
• Demonstrated ability to build and manage high-performing teams in a multicultural environment;
• Excellent financial management, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Citizens of Niger are especially encouraged to apply

VII. Equal employment opportunity statement

Equal employment opportunity statement – SCIDaR is an equal employment employer. We do not engage in practices that discriminate against any person employed or seeking employment based on race, colour, religion, gender, national or ethnic origin, age, marital status, genetic information or any other status or characteristic protected under applicable laws.