Director - Programs, Innovation & Impact

*JOB DESCRIPTION/ RESPONSIBILITIES:*

The Director - Programs, Innovation & Impact (DPII) is a key senior leadership role responsible for overseeing Program Operations, Research, Program Development, Program Technology, and Knowledge Management in the country office. As part of the Senior Management Team (SMT), the role ensures in-country effective strategy execution, program excellence, and alignment with Orbiss global objectives.

A core focus is partner management, fostering strong relationships with government agencies, healthcare institutions, and implementing partners to drive long-term impact. The DPII will lead a team of professionals, ensuring the seamless implementation of initiatives and integrating global innovations in program technology and research.

Working closely with the Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning (MEL) Team, the role ensures data-driven decision-making and measurable impact. The DPII will actively support the Country Director in achieving Orbiss mission, championing accountability in program implementation, and ensuring that all operational, research, and knowledge management efforts are aligned with organizational priorities. This role is critical in building a cohesive and high-performing program function that advances Orbiss work in preventing avoidable blindness and visual impairment.

Key Job Responsibilities:

A. Strategic Leadership & Program Implementation:

(1) Oversee the effective execution of Program Operations, Research, Program Development, Program Technology, and Knowledge Management, ensuring alignment with Orbiss global strategy;

(2) Support the Country Director in shaping and executing strategic growth plans for the program portfolio;

(3) Lead the design and development of new eye health programs, ensuring they are aligned with Orbiss mission and strategic priorities. oversee the creation of high-quality program proposals and ensure that all programs are scalable, sustainable, and evidence based;

(4) Ensure that all programs are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget while maintaining high standards of excellence.

B. Clinical Oversight & Quality Assurance:

(1) Ensure Orbiss programs uphold clinical best practices, medical ethics, and patient safety standards in partnership with healthcare institutions;

(2) Support capacity-building initiatives for eye health professionals, ensuring continued professional development and knowledge exchange;

(3) Facilitate the integration of new medical technologies, treatment protocols, and surgical innovations within Orbis -supported programs;

(4) Ensure that program design incorporates clinical input to enhance service delivery models and patient outcomes.

C. Partnership & Stakeholder Engagement :

(1) Foster and manage strong partnerships with government agencies, healthcare institutions, academic organizations, donors, and implementing partners;

(2) Identify and cultivate new partnerships to expand Orbiss impact and presence in the country;

(3) Represent Orbis in national and regional forums, contributing to policies and initiatives that strengthen eye health and public health systems.

D. Collaboration with MEL for Impact & Learning

(1) Work closely with the MEL team to ensure that programs are informed by data-driven decision-making and continuous learning;

(2) Utilize MEL insights to refine program strategies, ensuring effectiveness and scalability;

(3) Ensure that program teams actively contribute to evaluations, learning reviews, and impact assessments, integrating findings into future program designs;

(4) Support the timely submission of reports and updates for internal and external stakeholders.

E. Research, Innovation & Program Technology

(1) Drive the expansion of Orbiss research and knowledge management efforts, ensuring that programmatic decisions are guided by evidence and global best practices;

(2) Lead the integration of digital health and program technology solutions to enhance accessibility, efficiency, and innovation in service delivery;

(3) Ensure that knowledge management systems effectively capture and disseminate learnings across the organization;

F. Team Leadership & Capacity Building

(1) Lead and mentor a team of professionals, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and innovation;

(2) Provide strategic direction and professional development opportunities to strengthen team capabilities;

(3) Ensure seamless coordination between program teams and other key functions to drive operational efficiency.

G. Operational Oversight & Compliance;

(1) Ensure adherence to Orbiss global operational policies, donor regulations, and compliance frameworks in all program activities;

(2) Work closely with the finance and operations teams to ensure responsible budgeting, financial management, and resource allocation;

(3) Adapt and provide leadership in a changing environment, ensuring resilience and operational effectiveness;

(4) Provide technical and strategic support to Orbiss global program teams and other country offices whenever required.

4. QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE AND COMPETENCIES:

Qualifications:

Masters degree in Public Health, International Development, Healthcare Management, or a related field. A clinical background in ophthalmology/ optometry or a healthcare-related discipline, would be a strong advantage.

Experience:

(1) Minimum of 10 years of experience in program management, with at least five years in a senior leadership role in eye care, healthcare, or public health programs, preferably in an NGO, non-profit, or international development setting;

(2) Demonstrated experience in designing, developing, and implementing large-scale health programs, particularly in the eye health sector, with a strong understanding of clinical programs, ophthalmic healthcare, or health systems;

(3) Proven track record in partner management, particularly with clinical stakeholders, medical institutions, government health authorities, global health organizations, and donors;

(4) Experience in program technology and the integration of innovative healthcare technologies in eye care programs;

(5) Experience in research, especially in the context of clinical and public health research. The ability to integrate evidence-based findings into program development, clinical practices, and program evaluation is essential;

(6) Extensive experience in program development, including proposal writing, grant writing, donor reporting, and ensuring that programs meet clinical outcomes, regulatory compliance, and accountability standards.

Skills And Competencies:

(1) Ability to adjust strategies and approaches to meet the changing needs of programs in a dynamic environment;

(2) Strong analytical skills for identifying challenges and developing innovative solutions to complex program issues;

(3) Exceptional interpersonal skills, fostering collaboration across cross-functional teams and ensuring alignment toward program success;

(4) Proven ability to address and resolve conflicts constructively, maintaining a positive, solution-oriented work environment;

(5) Skilled in engaging diverse stakeholdersdonors, government bodies, and partnerswith professionalism and diplomacy;

(6) Experience in training, mentoring, and developing team members and partners to enhance program delivery and sustainability;

(7) Strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively, ensuring deadlines are consistently met;

(8) Ability to develop long-term, sustainable program strategies that align with organizational objectives and respond to emerging needs;

(9) Sound judgment in making critical decisions, particularly in high-pressure and complex situations;

(10) Proven experience in managing large-scale country programs from inception to completion and skilled in planning, budgeting, risk management, and ensuring projects meet objectives, timelines, and quality standards;

5. COMPENSATION OFFERED:

Gross compensation budgeted for the position is attractive. Please note that the offer made to the selected candidate shall be commensurate with qualifications, experience, and salary history.