Program Leader /Senior Program Leader – Communicable Disease

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About the Organization

Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) and Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) are two serious public health problems on the Indian subcontinent, causing high morbidity and mortality. The governments in the region have launched elimination initiative for both these diseases. The Govt of India (GOI) goal is to eliminate LF and VL, i.e. Reduce annual incidence of the disease to less than threshold levels at the sub district (block) level.

Piramal Foundation, through generous funding from BMGF, is providing strategic leadership and on-ground implementation support to the overall VL and LF elimination program in Bihar and Jharkhand in close partnership with respective departments of State Government and the National Vector Borne Disease Control Program (NVBDCP).

This project aims to contribute to the Government's comprehensive initiative to eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) and Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) from the states of Bihar and Jharkhand.

The key strategies for the elimination of lymphatic filariasis (LF) are: Mass Drug Administration (MDA) and Morbidity Management & Disability Prevention (MMDP). The key strategies for Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) or Kala Azar is Early Case identification & complete treatment and Indoor Residual Spray in all villages reporting any VL cases in last 3 years. 

The strategic goal and primary outcome of the project is to support the Government of Bihar and Government of Jharkhand to attain sustainable elimination of LF and LF in the two states.

Job Description

The Program Leader – Communicable Disease will oversee the planning, implementation, and evaluation of Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) and Kala-azar (VL) elimination programs. This role requires expertise in program management, stakeholder engagement, and data-driven decision-making. Key responsibilities include managing Night Blood Surveys/TAS, Mass Drug Administration (MDA), morbidity management, and case listing for LF, as well as Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS), Active Case Detection, and Data Management for VL. The position also involves capacity building, data analysis, reporting, and organizing program reviews and communication campaigns.

The PL/SPL-CD ensures the delivery of high-quality technical support through the Panchayat-led domain outcome model, assisting sub-district teams in planning, executing activities, and reviewing performance. Collaboration with the District Magistrate, Civil Surgeon, District Vector Borne Disease Control officials, DPRO, DEO, and block-level staff is essential for successful program execution. The PL/SPL-CD will

work closely with local collaborators, such as NGOs, youth groups, PRI members, faith leaders, SHGs, and local media, to build community-led forums for LF and VL elimination, raise awareness, dispel myths, and drive participation. Additionally, the role involves enabling LF-free Panchayats and fostering Jan Andolan by mobilizing stakeholders and facilitating community-driven efforts for LF elimination.

Job Responsibilities

Support to Health System

• Lead VL and LF Activities: Implement and support MDA, MMDP, Line Listing, ACD, PCD, KAMIS/IHIP, and IRS activities, collaborating closely with the Program Officer-Communicable Disease to ensure high quality and coverage.
• Coordinate with District Authorities: Work with key district officials (District Magistrate, Civil Surgeon, DVBDCO, DEO, and DPRO) to ensure operational support for VL and LF programs at the district and block levels.
• Sharing Program update: Provide regular progress updates to the Civil Surgeon, DVBDCO, DEO, and DPRO, ensuring smooth operations at health centers (PHC/SDH/DH) and throughout MDA campaigns.
• Data Management and Monitoring: Utilize data from KAMIS/IHIP for decision-making and program monitoring, ensuring that data is accurate and up to date.
• Logistical Coordination: Ensure timely procurement and distribution of medicines, funds, and materials for MDA campaigns, overseeing proper implementation.
• Collaborate with Municipal Commissioner and City Manager: Work closely with the Municipal Commissioner and City Manager to ensure the successful implementation of MDA, NBS, and MMDP activities within urban areas.

Community Engagement and Training:

• Capacity building of Frontline Workers (FLWs): Organize and lead training sessions for ASHA, ANM, CHO, VBDS, and other local health workers to improve program delivery and knowledge of VL and LF activities.
• Strengthen Community Networks: Facilitate the orientation and involvement of local NGOs, JEEVIKA/SHGs, faith leaders, and media to mobilize communities for VL and LF elimination efforts.
• Involvement of Panchayat: Work with Panchayats to integrate "Filaria/Kala Azar Free Panchayat" initiatives into the GPDP and DPPFT, encouraging active participation from local leaders.
• Engage Local Stakeholders: Coordinate with Panchayats, PRI members, NGOs, education officials, and SHGs to ensure community involvement in VL and LF initiatives.
• Support the Education Department: Collaborate with school student and teachers to organize MDA campaigns and raise awareness about VL and LF among students and teachers.

Program Support and Mentoring:

• Support Program Officers and Gandhi Fellows: Provide guidance, mentorship, and training to improve the skills and performance of Gandhi Fellows and Program Officers.
• Travel and Field Supervision: Travel regularly (90% of the time) to monitor field activities, provide on-ground support, and ensure the successful implementation of program components.

• Ensure Documentation: Ensure proper documentation, reporting, and data collection and analysis for all program activities, keeping track of achievements and areas for improvement.

Education Qualification/Required Skills & Experience

Essential:

• Masters degree in Science / Social Work / Social Science / Public Health At least 1-3 years of health program experience with 3-5 years program experience

Preferred:

• Demonstrated experience of leading field teams
• Experience in working with government programs and dealing with government officials

Skills & Competencies

• Demonstrated ability to mobilize Government program staff
• Demonstrated ability and judgement to identify programmatic issues that require immediate attention, prioritize and take appropriate and timely action
• Ability to travel extensively to block and villages and gather first hand information from community
• Excellent negotiation skills
• Excellent interpersonal, communication and presentation skills
• Demonstrated learning agility, pro-activeness and openness to embrace new technologies at work
• Demonstrated ability to manage a diverse team
• Ability to function effectively as a team member and respect diversity in a team
• Excellent knowledge of local language (Hindi)
• Accountability and Managing Performance

Candidates interested in the role are requested to follow the steps below:

Step 1: Submit your application by filling out the Microsoft form using the link below:
🔗 Application form link – https://forms.office.com/r/Dt90Lfc8sE

Step 2: Email your updated resume (in Word or PDF format) to:
📩 recruitments@gandhifellowship.org

Step 3: Please ensure that the Subject line of your Email reads: Program Leader /Senior Program Leader – Communicable Disease

Note: All the above steps are mandatory for your application to be considered

Last Date to Apply: 13^th November 2025

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