Rwanda Interagency PEPFAR Country Coordinator
Subject: USAID/Rwanda Solicitation No. SOL-696-12-000006 for U.S Citizens (USPSCs) Personal Services Contractor, Rwanda Interagency PEPFAR Country Coordinator.
ISSUANCE DATE: July 16, 2012
CLOSING DATE AND TIME: August 6, 2012 at 05:30 pm (Kigali Local Time)
Ladies/Gentlemen:
The United States Government, represented by the US Agency for International Development (USAID), is seeking applications (Optional Form 612) from qualified U.S citizens to provide personal services as Rwanda Interagency PEPFAR Coordinator under a personal services contract, as described in the attached solicitation.
Submittals shall be in accordance with the attached information at the place and time specified. Send one set of US Government OF 612. These signed forms must be mailed, delivered via international courier, or emailed (email applications must be signed) by the date and time above to the address supplied in the attached solicitation. Incomplete or unsigned applications shall not be considered.
In addition, applicants are also required to forward a résumé or curriculum vitae, a brief annex to the résumé or curriculum vitae that demonstrates how prior education, experience and/or training addresses the minimum qualifications and evaluation factors by which applicants will be initially ranked, and a brief writing sample.
Applicants should retain for their records copies of all enclosures which accompany their applications. Any attachments provided via email shall be in Microsoft Word 2000.
Sincerely,
Hadiza Linganwa
Executive Officer
1. SOLICITATION NUMBER: SOL-696- 12-000006
2. ISSUANCE DATE: July 16, 2012
3. CLOSING DATE/TIME FOR RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS: August 6, 2012
17.30, Kigali, Rwanda, Local Time
4. POSITION TITLE: Rwanda Interagency PEPFAR Country Coordinator
5. MARKET VALUE: Position is classified at GS-14/GS-15 equivalent with annual salary range of $84,697 to $110,104 for GS-14; and $99,628 to $129,517 for GS-15. Salary is not negotiable beyond this point.
6. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: U.S. Embassy Kigali, Rwanda
7. AREA OF CONSIDERATION: U.S Citizens Only
8. POSITION TITLE OF DIRECT SUPERVISOR: Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM)
9. SECURITY CLEARANCE REQUIREMENT: U.S. Secret Clearance
10. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: Two years with an option to renew for up to three additional years based on continuing need for the position, performance and availability of funds.
11. JOB DESCRIPTION
Overview
The PEPFAR/Rwanda Interagency Country Coordinator reports to the Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM), and is responsible for coordinating critical communications among various USG departments and agencies (CDC, DOD, USAID, State and Peace Corps) involved in the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) in Kigali, Rwanda. The Ambassador heads the PEPFAR program and is the final decision-maker with input from the Senior Management Team (SMT), which is comprised of the DCM, the Coordinator, and Agency leads. Supervision and annual evaluation of the Coordinator is assigned to the Deputy Chief of Mission with consultation and input from the agency leads and the PEPFAR team.
Introduction
PEPFAR - the U.S. Government initiative to help save the lives of those impacted by from HIV/AIDS around the world - is the largest commitment by any nation in history to combat a single disease internationally. PEPFAR investments also help alleviate suffering from other diseases across the global health spectrum. It forms the cornerstone of President Obama's Global Health Initiative, and provides a platform off of which to integrate and leverage non-HIV/AIDS health services.
PEPFAR is driven by a shared responsibility among donor and partner nations and others to make smart investments to save lives. Thanks in large part to U.S. leadership, tremendous progress has been made in the fight against global AIDS. PEPFAR has directly supported life-saving antiretroviral treatment for more than 3.2 million men, women and children worldwide as of September, 2010. PEPFAR has directly supported 11 million people with care and support, including nearly 3.8 million orphans and vulnerable children, in fiscal year 2010 alone. PEPFAR directly supported antiretroviral prophylaxis to prevent mother-to-child HIV transmission for more than 600,000 HIV-positive pregnant women in fiscal year 2010, allowing more than 114,000 infants to be born HIV-free.
In its second phase, PEPFAR focuses on the transition from an emergency response to building sustainable programs. These programs are country-owned and country-driven and address HIV/AIDS with a broader context of health and development. PEPFAR's reauthorization program builds on past strengths and increases efficiencies by scaling up effective interventions and ensuring value. The goals of this phase are to:
1. Transition from an emergency response to promotion of sustainable country programs.
2. Strengthen partner government capacity to lead the response to this epidemic and other health demands.
3. Expand prevention, care, and treatment in both concentrated and generalized epidemics.
4. Integrate and coordinate HIV/AIDS programs with broader global health and development programs to maximize impact on health systems.
5. Invest in innovation and operations research to evaluate impact, improve service delivery and maximize outcomes.
Within the State Department, the Office of the U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator (S/GAC) is responsible for implementing PEPFAR. Additional information about S/GAC and PEPFAR is available at www.pepfar.gov.
PEPFAR in Rwanda
In Rwanda, PEPFAR programs are implemented by six USG agencies with five agencies present in country; the Department of State (DOS - represented by the U.S. Embassy but with programs also managed through the Bureau for Population, Refugees and Migration), the Department of Defense (DOD), the Department of Health and Human Services through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Health Resources Services Administration (HRSA - not present in country), Peace Corps, and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). These agencies support a coordinated interagency management model which leverages and builds upon agency-specific strengths, expertise and historical relationships to achieve shared PEPFAR goals.
The Ambassador heads the in-country PEPFAR program and is the final decision-maker under PEPFAR Guidance for all program plans and activities submitted to the U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator. The Embassy Front Office leads a coordinated multi-agency PEPFAR team to develop and implement a single USG country plan that is aligned with the Government of Rwanda's National Strategy for HIV/AIDS and responsive to local needs and circumstances. The Front Office also ensures that the program is integrated so as to support mutual accountability for results. The PEPFAR Coordinator is the primary liaison to the Ambassador in providing day-to-day coordination in implementing the USG HIV/AIDS strategy for Rwanda, consistent with S/GAC/PEPFAR goals and resources. The PEPFAR Coordinator works under the direction of the Front Office to ensure an overall balanced and well coordinated HIV/AIDS program.
The Coordinator works closely with the PEPFAR Senior Management Team, made up of representatives from each of the USG agencies, in the planning, implementation and reporting of the PEPFAR program in Rwanda. The SMT is supported by the broader PEPFAR team, which is organized around Interagency Technical Teams (ITTs).
The GOR is committed to fighting HIV/AIDS and takes a leadership role in HIV/AIDS prevention, care, and treatment care for all its citizens. Over the past eight years, PEPFAR has supported the national capacity to plan, lead, manage, and deliver quality health services across Rwanda. The United States is the largest HIV/AIDS bilateral donor in Rwanda, with total support of over $895 million during the first eight years of PEPFAR. Other major bilateral and multilateral donors supporting HIV/AIDS in Rwanda include: the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria (Global Fund), United Nations agencies (UNDP, UNFPA, UNHCR, UNICEF, UNAIDS, UNIFEM, World Health Organization); the Great Lakes Initiative on HIV/AIDS; Belgium Technical Cooperation; European Union; German Agency for International Cooperation; Netherlands Embassy; Luxembourg Agency for Development Coordination; Swedish International Development Agency; and the United Kingdom Department For International Development. Health-focused non-governmental organizations operating in Rwanda include Partners in Health and the Clinton Foundation.
To date, the Global Fund has approved 12 grants to Rwanda totaling over $690 million, including National Strategy Application (NSA) grants in TB and HIV/AIDS. Rwanda is the only country to receive approval on its HIV NSA, and one of two countries to receive approval on a TB NSA.
The USG actively participates in donor coordination and harmonization on a number of levels, including the two main bodies that coordinate health activities undertaken by donors and civil society: the Health Sector Working Group, chaired by the MOH Permanent Secretary and co-chaired by the USG; and the Global Fund Country Coordinating Mechanism, chaired by the MOH Permanent Secretary and co-chaired by the WHO country representative. These bodies include substantial representation from the GOR, donors, and international and local civil society organizations that support the health sector.
As a result of these efforts, PEPFAR has seen great success in Rwanda. To date, PEPFAR is supporting over 64,000 individuals on treatment and providing care and support to over 94,000 individuals. Additionally, the PEPFAR program supports work in prevention (through programs focused on prevention of mother to child transmission, most-at-risk-populations and male circumcision), counseling and testing, health systems strengthening, laboratory support and strategic information.
General Principles
• The Coordinator is the primary point of contact with the S/GAC and the coordinator of activities related to PEPFAR in Rwanda. The PEPFAR Coordinator plays a critical role in the facilitation, planning, implementation, and reporting of program performance of inter-agency programs.
• The Coordinator is a facilitator, a communicator, and a negotiator. The Coordinator works in concert with an interagency team in a collaborative manner to implement the PEPFAR program.
• The Coordinator must maintain neutrality in the event of interagency conflict in order to successfully facilitate and negotiate.
• The Coordinator acts under the authority provided by the in-country U.S. Ambassador and the U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator in S/GAC in ensuring the success of the PEPFAR program in Rwanda. As the S/GAC representative in Rwanda, the Coordinator is charged with ensuring that the bilateral funds deployed by PEPFAR are wisely and effectively used to address the in-country HIV/AIDS epidemic. As such, the Coordinator is responsible for keeping the Ambassador, or designee, and S/GAC informed on the PEPFAR program, significant challenges, or areas of concern.
• The Coordinator must exercise considerable judgment and ingenuity, within the guidance and policies provided by S/GAC, to support the development of and oversee the strategies, tactical approaches and program initiatives that will strengthen the quality, availability and sustainability of HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, and care services.
• The Coordinator is responsible for leading the development and monitoring of a cohesive interagency program by providing leadership and facilitation to the interagency PEPFAR team in Rwanda for all aspects of PEPFAR - policy, technical, managerial, and operational.
• The Coordinator collaborates with the U.S. Embassy, the USG Agencies, partner government, and S/GAC to ensure achievement, not only of the primary HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment and care goals of PEPFAR, but also the public health sustainability and health diplomacy goals of PEPFAR.
• The Coordinator is accountable to ensure the PEPFAR Senior Management Team (SMT) is achieving its objectives.
• The Interagency Technical Teams (ITTs) are primarily responsible for the technical input and guidance of the program, while the SMT is involved in strategic direction, oversight and management.
• Agency leads should be copied on communications between the Coordinator and ITT or staff. As appropriate, they should also be included on substantive communications between the Coordinator and the S/GAC core team lead. This procedure is essential to retain trust and respect between Agency leads and the Coordinator. In addition, it is important that Agency leads copy the Coordinator on relevant communications related to matters of PEPFAR program strategy, implementation, and management and staffing.
• The Coordinator may represent the agencies at official meetings. When the Coordinator meets with Government of Rwanda counterparts, s/he should include Agency leads or, if not possible, consult with Agency leads prior to the meeting and inform Agency leads of outcomes following the meeting.
• The Coordinator also acts as the Global Health Initiative (GHI) Planning Lead and convenes the interagency on a regular basis to check-in across health and other related programs for GHI, reports to HQ as needed on the implementation and progress of the GHI strategy.
Major Duties and Responsibilities
Program Management and Implementation
• The Coordinator facilitates and guides the USG interagency team in the conception, formulation, recommendation, and implementation of initiatives in response to Rwanda's epidemic profile. This includes:
• ensuring that the PEPFAR program fits within the regulations of the Government of Rwanda and aligns with international policies and recommendations;
• implementing USG policy and technical direction;
• facilitating the interagency approach to PEPFAR within the USG;
• restructuring, reorienting and recasting immediate and long range goals, objectives, plans and schedules to meet substantial changes in policy, legislation, program authority and/or funding;
• facilitating interagency consensus on determinations of projects to be initiated, dropped or curtailed;
• development of annual country operational plans (COPs);
• development and review of annual and semi-annual performance reporting (APR and S/APR);
• facilitating organizational planning and overseeing the implementation of changes in organizational structure; and,
• engaging in long range planning in connection with prospective changes in USG funding, policies, and programs.
• Establishes appropriate controls to ensure the integrity-financial, technical, and operational-of all HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, and care programs implemented pursuant to the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief.
• As the daily representative of the Global AIDS Coordinator and the U.S. Ambassador working on the PEPFAR program, the Coordinator is the budget manager for the PEPFAR program in Rwanda. The Coordinator, in conjunction with the interagency Senior Management Team and, as necessary, the U.S. Ambassador, decides how best to apply the funds for successful program impact. To properly manage the budget, the Coordinator must understand and routinely communicate the current levels of expenditure and pipeline, develop budgets, and ensure continued flow of funds necessary to implement the program.
• Ensures the use of data collection and knowledge-based program management in regard to all aspects (implementation, technology, costing) of treatment, prevention and care strategies.
• Facilitates decision-making to ensure program sustainability in a post-Emergency response with greater country ownership in the political ownership/stewardship, institutional ownership, capabilities, and mutual accountability.
• Analyzes the unique operational context of the PEPFAR program in Rwanda and works with the interagency team to establish a vision and strategy for responding to this context within the guidelines of S/GAC policy and U.S. diplomatic priorities.
Collaboration Among Major Non-USG Stakeholders
• Ensures coordination and linkage of USG bilateral assistance with other bilateral donors, non-governmental organizations, and international multilateral organizations engaged in the fight against the global HIV/AIDS pandemic, including the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (Global Fund). Collaborates and shares information with multilateral partners, other donors, and S/GAC relevant to the success of broad efforts to mitigate the impact of the HIV epidemic in country. Liaises with these development partners, and in particular and in collaboration with the USG agencies with the Country Coordination Mechanism of the Global Fund, to ensure complementarities between the USG investments and other donors.
• Within the guidelines provided by S/GAC and U.S. diplomatic priorities, the Coordinator works with the interagency team to develop the vision of USG interaction with the GOR on all aspects of HIV/AIDS. Along with other USG agency leadership, establishes appropriate protocol for collaboration with the GOR. Promotes alignment with and understanding of the GOR priorities and policies among USG staff implementing the PEPFAR program.
• Evaluates the relative need, local conditions and capability of the GOR to develop or improve their infrastructure and programs necessary to provide or strengthen the quality, availability and sustainability of HIV/AIDS treatment, prevention and care services. Leads discussions, as appropriate, about the timing and implementation plans for transition from USG resources toward other types of funding for sustainable HIV responses. Counsels and advises S/GAC decision-makers regarding the optimal mix of funding support for Rwanda.
• To the extent possible, ensures outreach to and engagement of private-sector partners, including advocacy groups, faith- and community-based organizations, and businesses in the HIV/AIDS response. Encourage the engagement of these groups by all USG agencies responding to the epidemic in-country.
Program Representation
• In collaboration with various PEPFAR implementing agencies, represents the USG, and the Ambassador's office in particular, in country-level and, when appropriate, international-level fora, such as working groups, country coordinating mechanisms, steering committees, etc., with a focus on responding to the HIV epidemic and to integration of HIV services into broader health efforts in Rwanda.
• Counsels and advises the S/GAC and U.S. Embassy staff on relevant HIV/AIDS policies and issues that emerge in various settings with stakeholders. As requested by S/GAC and the U.S. Embassy, speaks on behalf of the USG about specific country HIV/AIDS epidemic needs based on a comprehensive knowledge of the overall country, regional, and global context, in-country HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment and care programs, and the current status of implementation of PEPFAR. Supported by a Country Support Team Lead (CSTL) at S/GAC, communicate field-based and headquarters priorities upstream and downstream. With the CSTL, facilitate interagency dialogue between the field and headquarters interagency teams.
• Informs and engages the U.S. Embassy Front Office, the U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator, USG representatives in-country administering HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment and care programs, non-governmental organizations, and partner government officials and their medical professionals on PEPFAR program achievements, concerns and needs and to reinforce initiatives to accomplish the goals of PEPFAR through bilateral and multilateral diplomatic efforts.
Core Functional Areas of Responsibility
• Liaise with the Office of the Global AIDS Coordinator (S/GAC) through the respective country Core Team lead and members named by S/GAC.
• Liaise with interested/affected units at the U.S. Mission to ensure that the Ambassador/DCM and others are well apprised of key PEPFAR accomplishments, challenges, and timelines.
• Liaise between the SMT and the PEPFAR Team to maintain a timely exchange of information.
• Liaise with leads of the USG PEPFAR implementing agencies to ensure critical communication between and among agencies, including action requests, and policy guidance from S/GAC.
• Liaise with Government of Rwanda officials to promote maximum collaboration between the Government of Rwanda HIV/AIDS programs and those being planned and implemented by USG agencies and their partners.
• Liaise with development partners active in HIV/AIDS, and the Country Coordination Mechanism and administrative agents of the Global Fund to fight AIDS, TB and Malaria (Global Fund), to ensure optimal integration of USG efforts with those of others.
• Work with the SMT to collect agenda items for weekly meetings, document decisions made, identify action items and ensure follow-up of these items.
• Support the preparation of speeches for delivery by the Ambassador/DCM and requested background materials for public as well as sensitive diplomatic events.
• Prepare written materials in collaboration with the Public Affairs Office (PAO) and Development Outreach and Communication position at USAID (DOC), including press releases and Op-Ed materials for local and international media.
• As needed, act as Control Officer or provide support for Congressional visits, PEPFAR Principal or Deputy Principal visits, and visits by other dignitaries or officials.
• Coordinate and facilitate all reporting, including S/APR and APR development, as well as ad hoc information requests as required by S/GAC.
• Ensure proper coordination and communication between the PEPFAR team and appropriate counterparts within the various coordinating bodies in Rwanda including Ministry of Health, the Rwanda Biomedical Center, other line ministries and other donors.
• Convene and chair regular and ad hoc meetings of the USG PEPFAR Team and ensure that records of regular meetings are disseminated and retained, and that decisions are documented and respected.
• As needed, facilitate meetings of the Interagency Technical Teams.
• In collaboration with Agency leads, ensure that the ITTs are established, have an agenda and are achieving objectives.
• Manage operational and strategic planning processes to ensure development of a balanced PEPFAR program (such as PHEs, reprogramming, portfolio reviews, unsolicited proposals, etc.), and mediate inter-agency conflicts that may occur in the planning process.
• Work closely with the PEPFAR Strategic Information team to coordinate and report program results as well as conduct strategic exercises to evaluate program progress and success, and maintain a calendar of important benchmarks to ensure the program is on schedule.
• Inform the SMT of key PEPFAR developments and timelines, significant policy or program issues, successes as well as constraints to achieving the program goals.
• Communicate decisions and information from the SMT to the PEPFAR team.
• Support efforts by USG implementing agencies to recruit, qualify, and successfully engage new, especially indigenous, partners in PEPFAR activities.
• Provide guidance and retain ultimate responsibility for ensuring that the annual Country Operational Plan (COP) is well planned, developed, produced and submitted to Washington in a timely manner. Serve as executive editor of final COP.
• Monitor and manage responses to S/GAC requests for information and reports; assign responses to appropriate team members; review responses and submit to S/GAC.
• Ensure up to date and timely communication to PEPFAR team, implementing partners, S/GAC, the Front Office, SMT and the GOR, as appropriate.
• Maintain the team sharepoint site to facilitate access to and documentation of information.
• Is the primary point of contact for FACTSInfo for the PEPFAR team.
• Maintain a schedule/calendar of PEPFAR events and proactively identifying needs for these events (e.g., speaking role for DCM, ITT preparation/participation in technical meetings, etc.)
• Assist in the orientation of new staff to the overall PEPFAR program, including the development of orientation materials.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
12. SUPERVISION/OVERSIGHT AND EVALUATION OF PERFORMANCE
Oversight Responsibilities
The Coordinator supervises the Strategic Information Advisor. The Coordinator provides technical guidance, functions as a mentor, aids the employee to understand the post and its mission within the host country, assists the employee in establishing and completing developmental goals, developing necessary contacts and fosters the employee's growth.
Supervision Received
The Coordinator is supervised by the Deputy Chief of Mission who provides on-site line management. The Ambassador provides country-level policy direction. The Coordinator also maintains an official reporting relationship to the U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator or his designee.
Evaluation of Performance
The DCM will obtain a "360 degree" evaluation seeking the perspectives, at least annually, of representatives (at least one) of each USG implementing agency. The results of the "360 degree" evaluation will be shared with both the Country Coordinator and the Ambassador and will serve as the basis for determining whether the Coordinator's terms of employment is renewed.
Probationary Period: Within six months of entry into the position, the employee will demonstrate:
• A good working knowledge of PEPFAR policy and overall objectives in Rwanda as well as a thorough understanding of the country program, its overall design, and structure.
• An excellent working relationship with the USG team, including the Front Office and SMT, so that information can be gathered and shared openly and expeditiously.
• Familiarity with the USG budgeting process, in particular the PEPFAR budgeting cycle that includes reprogramming and knowledge of accountability for USG spending.
The Deputy Chief of Mission will review progress towards the end of the probationary period, including gathering input from the USG agencies, to determine if the employee should be retained.
Authority to Make Commitments
The incumbent will have no independent authority to commit funds on behalf of the U.S. government.
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND TRAVEL
Work is primarily performed in an office setting within USG offices in Kigali, Rwanda. Temporary duty travel to the United States or elsewhere may be required as part of the duties of this position. The Contractor is expected to travel within Rwanda as required to meet the responsibilities of the position inclusive of:
- travel as required in preparation for and to accompany, the Ambassador, DCM, USG officials, or other visitors as required;
- travel for PEPFAR field visits; and,
- travel to and participation in meetings or appropriate workshops, including an annual PEPFAR Coordinators' meeting and the annual PEPFAR meeting.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND PROFESSIONAL ATTRIBUTES
This position requires a highly qualified and experienced individual with exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, the ability to foster team work, the capacity for strategic thinking, and an understanding of the technical and policy requirements to achieve the PEPFAR goals in Rwanda. The incumbent must be familiar with and be able to work well in an overseas environment and with a wide range of governmental and non-governmental counterparts. The PEPFAR Country Coordinator must have the following qualifications:
GS-14 Equivalent:
A. An advanced degree (master's or higher) in a relevant professional discipline, such as Public Policy, Public Heath, Business Administration or related subject, is required.
B. A minimum of five years of progressively responsible professional level experience at the international program management level and experience working internationally in the design, implementation and evaluation of public health programs, preferably with a focus on HIV/AIDS.
C. Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills.
D. Strong oral and written communication skills.
E. Ability to mediate interagency conflicts and facilitate consensus decisions on complex technical, programmatic, strategic and financial issues.
F. Strong analytical skills.
G. Strong capacity to multi-task, including managing, prioritizing and fulfilling competing demands in real time.
H. Ability to keep track of a large amount of data and manage complex interagency planning and reporting processes.
I. Ability to empower PEPFAR team members to apply available resources and expertise to addressing the local epidemic.
J. Cross-cultural sensitivity and awareness.
K. Strong managerial skills.
L. U.S. Citizen (offshore or resident)
M. Able to obtain US Government medical and secret security clearances.
N. Available and willing to work outside the regular 40-hour workweek when required/necessary.
O. Willing to travel to work sites and other offices as/when requested.
GS-15 Equivalent:
A. An advanced degree (master's or higher) in a relevant professional discipline, such as Public Policy, Public Heath, Business Administration or related subject, is required.
B. A minimum of eight years of progressively responsible professional level experience at the international program management level and experience working internationally in the design, implementation and evaluation of public health programs, preferably with a focus on HIV/AIDS.
C. Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills.
D. Strong oral and written communication skills.
E. Ability to mediate interagency conflicts and facilitate consensus decisions on complex technical, programmatic, strategic and financial issues.
F. Strong analytical skills.
G. Strong capacity to multi-task, including managing, prioritizing and fulfilling competing demands in real time.
H. Ability to keep track of a large amount of data and manage complex interagency planning and reporting processes.
I. Ability to empower PEPFAR team members to apply available resources and expertise to addressing the local epidemic.
J. Cross-cultural sensitivity and awareness.
K. Strong managerial skills.
L. U.S. Citizen (offshore or resident)
M. Able to obtain US Government medical and security clearances;
N. Available and willing to work outside the regular 40-hour workweek when required/necessary.
O. Willing to travel to work sites and other offices as/when requested.
Exercise of Judgment: The incumbent is required to exercise independent judgment and ingenuity to interpret and develop applications and guidelines to devise innovative approaches to resolve technical, administrative, managerial, and policy problems. Excellent, balanced judgment must be exercised in setting priorities. In addition, considerable judgment is required to work effectively with host-government officials; coordinate multi-sectoral efforts in support of objectives; and collect, analyze, and report the progress of activities and recommend project actions.
SELECTION FACTORS
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the minimum qualifications noted above. For those who do, further consideration and selection will be based on panel assessment of the Selection Criteria listed below.
Applicants are required to address each of the Selection Criteria on a separate sheet describing specifically and accurately what experience, training, education, and/or awards or recognition they have received relevant to each criteria described below, and any related considerations. Be sure to include your name and the announcement number at the top of each additional page.
Candidates will be evaluated and ranked based on the following selection criteria to a maximum score of 100 points:
A. EDUCATION (15 points):
A master's degree in a relevant professional discipline, such as Public Policy, Public Heath, Business Administration or related subject is required. Applicants will be evaluated on the relevance of their educational accomplishments to the functional responsibilities of the position.
B. WORK AND PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE (40 Points):
• A minimum of five years (GS-14) or eight years(GS-15) of progressively responsible professional level experience in working with Health, Development and/or HIV/AIDS issues and programs.
• Demonstrated experience working with international donors and government officials in developing countries supporting public health programs. Familiarity with USG policies would be preferred, but not required.
• Demonstrated experience in project management and coordinating complex programs in resource poor settings with multiple partners.
• Demonstrated experience with facilitating meetings and make oral presentations logically and persuasively to senior officials and partners in a multi-cultural context.
C. SKILLS AND ABILITIES (45 points):
• Demonstrated strong interpersonal skills and ability to work in a multi-cultural setting required.
• Experience supervising and leading teams of professionals required.
• Demonstrated ability to deal effectively with and resolve conflict.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in large teams and work towards positive performance overall.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and coordinate implementation of detailed work plans/timelines for major time-sensitive and complex work projects that are dependent on contributions from multiple US government agencies and dozens of individuals.
• Ability to produce concise, clear reports, and proficiency in word processing, spreadsheet, databases and other computer applications.
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills, verbal skills and ability to communicate technical information clearly and effectively to both technical and non-technical colleagues.
• Experience with tracking complex and constantly shifting budgets.
• Familiarity with USG systems and implementation mechanisms.
• Fluency in French is desirable, but not required.
13. START DATE: Immediately, once necessary security and health clearances are obtained.
14. POINT OF CONTACT: Colette Munyakazi at cmunyakazi@usaid.gov and Hadiza Linganwa at hlinganwa@usaid.gov .
15. HOW TO APPLY:
Applicants are required to address each of the above Selection Criteria on a separate sheet describing specifically and accurately what experience, training, education, and/or awards or recognition they have received relevant to each criteria described below, and any related considerations. Be sure to include your name and the announcement number at the top of each additional page.
To ensure consideration of applications for the intended position, please reference the solicitation number on your application, and as the subject line in any email, cover letter and any other attached pages. The highest ranking applicants may be selected for interviews.
Applications must be received by the closing date and time at the address specified in the cover letter. Applications received after the date and time shall be considered late and shall be considered at the discretion of the Government.
We suggest you confirm that all documents submitted were received prior to closing date and time of this notice. Equipment failures at USAID or by the applicant's network are not acceptable reasons for late submission as applicants have the option of sending hard copy via courier.
QUALIFIED INDIVIDUALS ARE REQUESTED TO SUBMIT:
A US Government Optional Form 612 (available at the USAID website, http://www.usaid.gov/procurement_bus_opp/procurement/forms or internet http://fillform.gsa.gov , or at Federal offices). Applicants are also required to forward a 1) resume or curriculum vitae, 2) a brief annex to the resume or curriculum vitae that demonstrates how prior education, experience and/or training addresses the minimum qualifications and evaluation factors by which applicants will be initially ranked, and 3) a brief writing sample, containing the following information:
1. Personal Information: Full name, mailing address (with zip code), email address, day and evening phone numbers, social security number, country of citizenship, highest federal civilian grade held (also give job series and dates held).
2. Applicants are required to address each of the Selection Criteria on a separate sheet describing specifically and accurately what experience, training, education, and/or awards or recognition they have received relevant to the selection criteria described in the selection criteria section of this solicitation.
3. Applicants are required to provide a three to five page writing sample as part of their application to demonstrate their written English language ability. The writing sample may be an excerpt of a larger work and need not be specifically written for this solicitation.
4. Work Experience: Provide the following information for your paid and non-paid work experience related to the job for which you are applying (do not send job descriptions); job title (include series and grade if Federal job), duties, and accomplishments, employer's name and address, supervisor's name and phone number, starting and ending dates (month and year), hours per week, salary. Indicate if the USG may contact your current supervisor.
5. Education: Colleges and universities, name, city and state, majors, type and year of any degrees received (if no degree, show total credits earned and indicate whether semester or quarter hours).
6. References: Applicants are required to provide three professional references with complete contact information including email address and telephone numbers.
7. Statement of Availability: A written statement certifying the date and length of time for which the candidate is available for the position.
8. Applications must be submitted by email, DHL, FedEx or other international courier by the closing time and date to:
USAID/Rwanda - Executive Office:
2657, Avenue de la Gendarmerie - Kacyiru
B.P 2848
Kigali, Rwanda
(Solicitation # SOL-696-S-12-000006)
E-mail Address: cmunyakazi@usaid.gov (Colette Munyakazi) with copies to: hlinganwa@usaid.gov (Hadiza Linganwa). The subject line should read "Solicitation No. SOL-696-S-12-000006.
LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS FOR PSCS
Forms outlined below can found at http://www.usaid.gov/business/business_opportunities/psc_solicitations.html
1. Optional Form 612.
2. Contractor Physical Examination (DS-6561 Forms). **
3. Questionnaire for Sensitive Positions (for National Security)
(SF-86), or **
4. Questionnaire for Non-Sensitive Positions (SF-85). **
5. Finger Print Card (FD-258). **
** Forms 2 through 5 shall be completed only upon the advice of the Contracting Officer that an applicant is the successful candidate for the job.
- Contractor Physical Examination (DS-6561): Upon notification of eligibility as USPSC you will have two (2) weeks to submit your completed Medical Forms in accordance with the instructions in Attachment A of subject forms.
NOTE: (DS 6561) STATE/MED is committed to processing all USPSC medical clearances within 30 days of receipt, except when additional medical testing is required.
SECURITY AND MEDICAL CLEARANCES
The position is open to U.S. Citizens only. The selected applicant must be able to obtain a Secret Security Clearance and appropriate Medical Clearance from STATE/MED. The selected applicant must obtain these clearances prior to departure for post. All accompanying dependents must also obtain Medical Clearances prior to departure for post.
CONTRACT INFORMATION BULLETINS (CIBS) PERTAINING TO PSCS
AAPDs and CIBs contain changes to USAID policy and General Provisions in USAID regulations and contracts. Please refer to this website http://www.usaid.gov/business/businessopportunities/cib/subject.html#psc to determine which AAPDs and CIBs apply to this contract.
16. BENEFITS, ALLOWANCES AND PAYMENT OF TAXES
As a matter of policy, and as appropriate, a USPSC is normally authorized the following benefits and allowances:
1) BENEFITS
Employee's FICA Contribution
Contribution toward Health & Life Insurance
Pay Comparability Adjustment
Eligibility for Worker's Compensation
Annual and Sick Leave
Access to Embassy medical facilities, commissary and pouch mail service
Cost of Travel to/from Post
Shipment of Unaccompanied Baggage
Shipment and Storage of Household Effects
Shipment of POV (Privately Owned Vehicle)
2) ALLOWANCES (if applicable, as found in the Standardize Regulations for Government Civilians Foreign Areas):
Temporary Lodging Allowance (Section 120)
Living Quarters Allowance (Section 130)
Post Allowance (Section 220)
Supplemental Post Allowance (Section 230)
Separate Maintenance Allowance (Section 260)
Educational Allowance (Section 270)
Educational Travel (Section 280)
Post Differential (Chapter 500)
Payments during Evacuation/Authorized Departure (Section 600) and
Danger Pay (Section 650
FEDERAL TAXES: USPSCs are required to pay Federal Income Taxes, FICA and Medicare.
Washington, District of Columbia 20521-2130
2657, Avenue de la Gendarmerie - Kacyiru
B.P 28
Kigali, Rwanda
(Solicitation # SOL-696-S-12-000006)
KIGALI,
Rwanda
APPLY Position Title: Rwanda Interagency PEPFAR Country Coordinator
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