Head of Programs

THE OPPORTUNITY The Head of Program & Partnership provides strategic leadership and oversight of FHF’s program portfolio and partnership strategy in Ethiopia. The role ensures programs are technically sound, evidence‑based, and effectively implemented, while cultivating strong partnerships with government, donors, NGOs, private sector actors, and communities. It also supports the Country Manager in ensuring operational, technical, and strategic continuity. The position oversees advisor functions (Eye Health, Trachoma, Clinical Quality, Policy & Influence) and MERLA, enabling integrated, high‑impact programming aligned with FHF’s mission to eliminate avoidable blindness and trachoma in Ethiopia. ABOUT YOU Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and people management skills. Expertise in program design, implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and learning. Excellent negotiation, partnership‑building, and stakeholder engagement skills Ability to integrate technical knowledge with strategic leadership to drive program impact. Strong communication, advocacy, and representation skills. Fluency in English; knowledge of local languages (Amharic, Oromiffa) is an advantage. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES The Head of Program & Partnership will own the outcomes of : Strategic Leadership & Program Oversight Lead program design, planning, implementation, and performance management; ensure alignment with FHF strategies and national priorities; oversee technical advisors, MERLA, and program teams; support the Country Manager in strategy execution and operational continuity. Partnership Development & Management Develop and manage strategic partnerships with government, donors, NGOs, private sector, and communities; negotiate and strengthen collaborations to enhance program reach and sustainability; represent FHF in high‑level forums to influence policy and resource allocation. Technical Oversight & Integration Oversee technical functions across eye health, trachoma, clinical quality, policy, and NTDs; ensure integration of expertise into program design and delivery; promote innovation for improved effectiveness and sustainability. MERLA Leadership Lead MERLA systems to support data‑driven decision‑making, continuous learning, and evidence‑based programming; ensure knowledge generation and dissemination for policy and advocacy. Health Systems Strengthening & Capacity Building Strengthen government and partner capacity at all levels; embed interventions within health systems; mentor staff and partners to build technical and organizational capability. Stakeholder Engagement & Advocacy Represent FHF in national and regional forums; advocate for sustainable resource allocation and program integration; ensure accountability through robust reporting and feedback mechanisms. Leadership & Governance Provide leadership and supervision to program and partnership teams; ensure compliance with policies, donor requirements, and regulations; support risk management, safeguarding, and quality assurance. Other tasks as requested by your manager. WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO SUCCEED 12–15 years of progressive experience in program leadership, partnership management, or health systems strengthening, preferably in eye health or NTD programs. Master’s degree in public health, Health Systems, Development Studies, or related field. Proven experience managing multi‑disciplinary teams, technical advisors, and MERLA functions. Track record of working with government, donors, NGOs, and multi‑stakeholder partnerships at national and regional levels. Experience in resource mobilization, advocacy, and high‑level representation is highly desirable. Experience in international development & NFP sector. How we recognise your contribution Through our internal programs and employee benefits we aim to create an environment where you will feel supported and empowered. Whether your focus is on continuous learning, professional development or finding an environment which enables you to thrive while balancing family or personal commitments, we have a range of programs in place to support you. #J-18808-Ljbffr