Role Title Country Director
Reports to Chief Executive Officer
Direct Reports Program Managers/Leads
Job Location Niamey, Niger
Travel Requirements About 40%
FTE 100%
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:
a. Program Oversight and Technical Leadership
- 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; - Lead the design and adaptation of health system-strengthening interventions to the local context;
- Ensure programmatic excellence by applying best practices in public health, monitoring, and
evaluation; - Oversee data-driven decision-making to enhance project performance and sustainability.
b. Operations and Financial Management - Establish and operationalize the Solina Niger country office, ensuring compliance with local
regulations; - Develop and manage the country office budget, ensuring financial accountability and efficiency;
- Oversee recruitment, capacity building, and performance management of staff in Niger;
- Ensure adherence to Solina’s policies, donor requirements, and local labor laws.
c. Stakeholder Engagement and Advocacy - Serve as the primary liaison between Solina and government ministries, donors, and implementing
partners; - Represent Solina in national and regional forums, contributing to policy discussions and knowledge
sharing; - Develop strategic partnerships to enhance Solina’s impact and sustainability in Niger.
IV. Required Skills and Competencies
a. Problem-Solving - Ability to think critically and strategically to solve complex problems;
- Creative approach to developing innovative and evidence-based solutions for maternal health
challenges; - Strong decision-making skills supported by thorough analysis and evaluation;
- Ability to manage and utilize data effectively for project planning and evaluation.
b. Communication - Proficiency in French and English (spoken and written) is required.
- Excellent ability to build and maintain strong relationships with clients and stakeholders;
- Effective in preparing and delivering compelling presentations to diverse audiences;
- Strong writing skills for creating reports, proposals, and other project documentation.
c. Computer Skills - Proficiency in project management software and tools, data analysis tools, and Microsoft Office
Suite.
d. Professionalism and Personal Leadership - Strong ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and external partners
- Skilled in negotiating with stakeholders to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes
- Awareness and sensitivity to cultural differences and the ability to work effectively in diverse
environments - Strong attention to detail to ensure high-quality deliverables
- Ability to adapt to changing circumstances and remain effective under pressure and flexible to
respond to new challenges and opportunities; - Exceptional ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively.
e. Team Leadership - Ability to develop and articulate a clear vision for the SRH portfolio and inspire team members to
achieve goals. - Strong skills in mentoring, coaching, and developing junior staff
- Proven expertise in planning, executing, and overseeing projects to successful completion
f. Firm Leadership - Proficiency in managing project budgets and ensuring financial accountability;
- Ability to identify opportunities for cost savings and optimize resource use;
- Commitment to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and ethical behavior and ability to
handle sensitive information with discretion and confidentiality.
V. Education and Experience
a. Academic training: Master’s degree in public health, health policy, international development,
business administration, or a related field.
b. 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
VI. Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their CV and a cover letter detailing their experience, qualifications,
and motivation for the role to Country Director. The deadline for applications is February 14, 2025.
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, color,
religion, gender, national or ethnic origin, age, marital status, genetic information or any other status or
characteristic protected under applicable laws.
