Program Officer, Maternal, Newborn and Child Health at Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria

Description and objectives:

• Under the supervision of the State MNCH Lead/State Manager, they will ensure high-quality MNCH services in line with the 95-95-95 UNAIDS goal.
• She/He will provide technical expertise in implementing high-impact interventions to ensure quality service delivery across all program areas.
• She/He will lead the day-to-day implementation of all MNCH/ART services in the assigned health facility and guide MNCH program implementation according to the National Guidelines.

Responsibilities-he/she will:

• Facilitate the development and revision of relevant strategies to be incorporated into the PMTCT National strategic plan.
• Assist in developing program strategies, work plans, and their implementation for effective operations of the hub and spoke model scale-up.
• Ensure smooth operations and coordination of MNCH activities at the regional and state offices.
• Forecast and request for MNCH commodities such as Care kits and Mama Packs
• Co-ordinate, track progress, review results, and address PMTCT challenges
• Mentor service providers (Doctors, Nurses, Mentor mothers, etc.) to provide quality care to HIV+ pregnant and breastfeeding women
• Ensure that the facility operates a functional and efficient client flow system
• Identify barriers to PMTCT and proffer solutions to these challenges
• Assess and undertake needs assessments of new sites as required
• Facilitate and coordinate training sessions organized for site healthcare workers
• Identify implementation bottlenecks across program areas at the site and proffer solutions
• Work with health facility staff and focal persons and colleagues to effectively address operational challenges (including service logistics, staffing shortages, training needs, and commodity supply)
• Facilitate and coordinate the Infant Feeding Counseling activities and training of healthcare workers at all IHVN-supported sites
• Facilitate effective linkages within thematic areas and overall community linkages
• Facilitate Quality improvement projects, report writing and collation, and data analysis
• Facilitate and give technical support to facility staff on Cervical cancer screening and treatment.
• Carry out any other duties/ assignments as directed by supervisors, program area leads, and the Director/HOD of the Prevention Care and Treatment Department
• Adhere to and abide by the ethics and code of conduct of the Institute

Experience, skills, and competencies

• At least 2-3 years’ experience with MNCH service provision, including Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission of HIV (PMTCT)
• Previous experience in HIV-related operational research is an advantage.
• Good knowledge of current trends and normative guidance (national and international) in HIV clinical care and service delivery, including PMTCT and cervical cancer screening.
• Willingness to work in or travel to clinics and hospitals in assigned geographical areas within the State.
• Ability to communicate effectively and fluently in English (oral and written) and good inter and intrapersonal communication and facilitation skills.
• Proficiency in using Microsoft Office packages, presentation skills, and video conferencing are required.
• Good analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in program narrative and proposal writing, data evaluation, and excellent report writing.
• Ability to work under pressure to meet organisational targets/goals.
• Excellent persuasive skills and good stakeholders’ management track record.
• Fundamental skills in project planning, implementation, and monitoring.
• Must be proactive and deliver quality work on time.
• Be willing and able to work effectively in a team.

Educational qualifications and experience

• Must possess a Certificate as RN/RM or BScN.
• Postgraduate qualification/master’s level training in Public Health or other related courses will be an advantage.
• Must be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria