Project Director-Mayi na Mwana

Project Director – Mayi na Mwana

Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is seeking a dedicated and experienced professional for one of the leading project director jobs in Lusaka. Based in Lusaka, Zambia, this full-time position plays a vital role in strengthening maternal and newborn health services through the Mayi and Mwana project. The successful candidate will provide leadership, technical oversight, and management support to ensure the delivery of quality healthcare interventions in targeted districts.

About the Role: Project Director Jobs in Lusaka

Reporting directly to the Head of Programs, the Project Director will set high standards for program management and technical assistance. This role involves close collaboration with provincial and district Ministry of Health teams, cooperating partners, and health facilities to advance maternal, neonatal, and child health (MNCH) outcomes. The Project Director will oversee program implementation, budget management, reporting, and the development of systems to monitor progress and achievements.

Key Responsibilities

• Technical and Clinical Management: Serve as the primary technical lead, conducting field visits to provide on-the-job training and ensure program quality.
• Support health facilities and partners to overcome barriers in delivering maternal and newborn health services.
• Lead trainings and mentorship initiatives to build capacity in MNCH programming.
• Collaborate with health system strengthening teams to identify gaps and implement solutions aligned with MNCH standards.
• Coordinate with internal staff and external partners to optimize program activities and stakeholder engagement.
• Contribute to timely and accurate reporting, including mid-term and final project evaluations.
• Analyze provincial MNCH data and support feedback mechanisms to national health authorities.
• Facilitate integration of sustainability and transition plans within district and provincial health offices.
• Act as a resource person for the Mayi & Mwana project and foster linkages with community stakeholders.
• Develop resource manuals and support community development activities related to the project.
• Monitor Ministry of Health MNCH guidance and harmonize project activities accordingly.
• Document best practices, case studies, and lessons learned; network with key MNCH agencies in Zambia.
• Oversee staff training, orientation, and capacity-building workshops.

Qualifications and Experience

• Medical Doctor or advanced degree in public health or related medical field with strong MNCH expertise.
• Minimum of ten years’ experience in health systems strengthening and program management in resource-limited settings.
• Five years’ post-qualification experience with familiarity in international donor procedures.
• Proficient in MS Office applications; knowledge of SPSS and Epi-info is an advantage.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, communication, coaching, and facilitation skills.
• Ability to work independently and under pressure with strong planning capabilities.
• Master’s degree in medicine, public health, or related field is preferred.
• Proven skills in mentoring, training, program monitoring and evaluation, and technical writing.
• Experience in networking with donors, peer organizations, and faith-based partners.
• Fluency in English and local languages is required.
• Willingness to travel up to 30% within project areas.

Agency Competencies and Values

• Personal Accountability: Takes responsibility for own actions consistently.
• Integrity: Models values aligned with CRS Guiding Principles and mission.
• Trust Building: Demonstrates consistency between words and actions.
• Collaboration: Works effectively in diverse, intercultural teams.
• Openness to Learning: Seeks experiences that broaden perspective and knowledge.

Application Process for Project Director Jobs in Lusaka

Interested candidates are invited to submit a cover letter and curriculum vitae, including three references, via email to crszambiajobs@crs.org. Please indicate the position title in the email subject line.

Application Deadline: Tuesday, 22nd September 2026

Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for interviews. Catholic Relief Services is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults and requires all staff to uphold the highest standards of dignity and respect. Successful candidates will undergo comprehensive background checks.

About Catholic Relief Services

Catholic Relief Services is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to improving health outcomes and strengthening community systems. The Mayi na Mwana project exemplifies our commitment to enhancing maternal and newborn care in Zambia through collaborative, evidence-based interventions.