Canada: Senior Program Specialist - Governance, Equity and Health Program

The International Development Research Centre (IDRC)

The International Development Research Centre (IDRC), a Canadian Crown corporation, supports research in developing regions of the world to promote growth and development. The result is innovative, lasting local solutions that bring choice and change to those who need it most. We are seeking a dynamic, strategic, innovative leader to join our management team.

SENIOR PROGRAM SPECIALIST
Governance, Equity and Health Program
OTTAWA, CANADA

Job Overview

The Governance, Equity and Health program supports research in developing regions to strengthen their health systems and improve health outcomes. Our program includes research on health information systems, financing, delivery, and access and governance challenges across a number of regions.

As the Senior Program Specialist, you will identify critical research issues; assist in developing the research strategy; and take the lead in developing, managing, monitoring and evaluating a portfolio of research projects. In particular, you will develop programs related to health information systems and primary health care focusing on Africa.

Candidate Profile

Education
• PhD, or a Masters with equivalent work experience, and a record of research in a relevant health or social science discipline such as epidemiology, public health, health informatics, political science or public policy

Experience
This position requires eight years of relevant health systems, epidemiology, and health information systems experience, which includes:
• conducting, managing, evaluating research projects
• linking research results to practice and policy
• establishing and building partnerships
• capacity building such as teaching, mentoring and supervising
• working in Sub-Saharan Africa is essential and experience working in Asia is an asset

Note: Candidates with less experience may be considered for appointment at the level of Senior Program Officer

Language
• English is essential at an advanced level

Knowledge
• Knowledge of global public health arena and donor landscape
• Knowledge of health policy and system approaches and applied epidemiology
• Knowledge of health and social policy issues in Africa and other developing regions an asset

Competencies
• Excellent leadership, interpersonal and communication skills (orally and in writing)
• Superior planning, organizing, coordinating and negotiation skills under pressure
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Innovative, creative and flexible team player
• Ability to manage complex and diverse projects while traveling or in the field
• Ability to establish, manage and monitor relationships with stakeholders
• Ability to provide advice and guidance to stakeholders and senior management
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team including diverse cultures, expertise and experiences
• Awareness of and sensitivity to individual, gender and cultural differences.

Additional Information

This position requires a willingness to travel internationally, an average of 60-90 days per year.

If you are interested in a career with a lasting impact, we invite you to join our team of talented and motivated professionals operating in a stimulating, multicultural, learning environment. For more information about this opportunity and how to apply, visit www.idrc.ca/careers Application Deadline: October 25, 2010.

IDRC encourages applications from qualified women, Aboriginal peoples, persons with disabilities, and members of visible minorities.