About ADRA: The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) is a global humanitarian and development organization that operates in more than 130 countries. ADRA Nepal works with people in poverty and distress to create just and positive change through empowering partnerships and responsible action. We collaborate closely with local communities, government agencies, and other stakeholders to ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of our projects. We prioritize community participation, capacity building, and a holistic approach to development, aiming to uplift vulnerable populations and promote long-term positive change in Nepal.

Job Summary:

ADRA is searching for a Chief of Party (COP) for an upcoming USAID-funded Better Health Activity. This activity will support the three tiers of governments to improve the health system, especially around improved governance, improved demand-side barriers, and accountability of communities in the health system, and improved quality of health care services at the facility and community level. The activity will focus on improving quality of care for maternal, newborns and family planning services, prioritizing marginalized communities. The support will complement the USAID Health Direct Financing Project, improve readiness of health facilities, and prepare the health system for the possible future health emergencies with increased coordination across three tiers of government. The COP will oversee all finance and administrative activities under this project in the Nepal office. This senior position will provide overall strategic direction in the design, management, implementation, technical leadership, and overall quality assurance of the project. The COP will oversee a team of professionals and work closely with the Government of Nepal and the Ministry of Health and Population, local partners, and other relevant stakeholders to strengthen health systems at the municipality, provincial, and federal levels in a sustainable manner and improve overall health service delivery in Nepal. This position is contingent upon donor approval and funding.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Leadership. Develop and implement a comprehensive project strategic plan for the better health project, ensuring alignment with USAID guidelines and priorities. Provide visionary leadership to guide project activities and foster collaboration among team members and partners.
2. Project Management. Oversee all aspects of project implementation, including planning, budgeting, monitoring, and evaluation. Ensure the project is delivered on time, within budget, and meets the highest quality standards. Implement effective project management systems and tools. Enable identification, sharing, and application of international best practices and lessons learned. Analyze and evaluate project operations to identify and resolve issues or problems.
3. Stakeholder Engagement. Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials, local partners, civil society organizations, and other relevant actors. Collaborate closely with the Ministry of Health and Population and other government agencies to ensure project alignment with national health strategies and policies. Manage relationship with USAID, ensuring effective communication and client satisfaction.
4. Technical Expertise. Provide technical guidance and expertise on health systems strengthening, health service delivery, and related areas. Stay abreast of the latest developments and best practices in the field and ensure the project integrates evidence-based approaches.
5. Team Management. Lead and manage a diverse team of professionals, providing guidance, mentorship, and capacity building support. Foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment that promotes teamwork, learning, and professional growth.
6. Monitoring and Evaluation. In close collaboration with the MEAL director, the COP will develop and implement a robust monitoring and evaluation framework to track project progress and outcomes. Utilize data-driven insights to make informed decisions, identify areas for improvement, and promote learning within the project team.
7. Financial and Administrative Oversight. In close collaboration with the finance and administration director, the COP will ensure sound financial management practices, including budget development, expenditure tracking, and financial reporting. Oversee project administration, including procurement, contracts, and compliance with USAID regulations and policies.
8. Reporting and Communication. Prepare regular reports on project progress, achievements, challenges, and lessons learned for submission to USAID and other relevant stakeholders. Effectively communicate project objectives, results, and impact to a wide range of audiences through various mediums.

Required Qualifications:

• Medical degree or master’s degree or higher in Public Health, Health Systems, Business Administration, International development, or similar field is required.
• 10 years of demonstrated experience in implementing, leading, and managing large health is required. Familiarity with and expertise in overseeing financial and contractual management aspects of project management is crucial, requiring outstanding organizational skills.
• At least 7 years of prior experience as a COP, Deputy COP or equivalent on a USAID-funded project is required.
• Experience overseeing development and implementation of M&E and knowledge management strategies relevant to international public health projects.
• Experience overseeing sub-awardees to achieve project results.
• Outstanding written and oral communication and interpersonal skills in English are required.
• Deep knowledge of the health context of Nepal required, with experience working in Nepal required.
• Demonstrated experience leading diverse teams to achieve successful project implementation, financial management, and reporting.
• Experience collaborating and coordinating with local and national host government agencies and aligning program activities and results with national strategies.
• Excellent diplomacy skills and a proven ability to establish and maintain interpersonal and professional relationships with regional/district governments, representatives from other key stakeholders (such as NGOs, CSOs, etc.), and the private sector.
• Demonstrated ability to operate at advanced levels of authority and accountability for achieving results.
• Awareness of USAID cooperative agreements, and the related policies, procedures, and regulations; deep understanding of USG federal compliance requirements and evidence of experience in their application.
• Proven technical expertise in a range of effective capacity development methods, including curriculum or assessment tools design and organizational capacity development;
• Previous experience working with local partners, organizations, and institutions;
• In-depth knowledge of USAID rules and regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Knowledge of Government of Nepal rules and regulations.
• USAID contract experience required.
• Knowledge of Nepalese and other local languages a plus