11:49 PM
Unknown
Job Title: Senior Supply Chain Systems Advisor (SSCSA), GS-14
CLOSING DATE: June 27, 2011
The United States Government, represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development
(USAID)/Uganda, is seeking applications from U.S citizens and Resident Aliens offshore, local
Hire American nationals and U.S. Resident Aliens (resident in Uganda) or Third Country
Nationals interested in providing PSC services as described in the attached solicitation.
Applicants interested in applying for this position MUST submit the following materials:
1) Complete and hand-signed federal form OF-612.
2) Curriculum vitae/resume specifically addressing each selection criterion as outlined in the solicitation.
3) Three (3) to five (5) references with current contact information.
No exceptions to the minimum document submission requirements will be allowed. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
All application reviews will be based on the documentation submitted with the application. Applications that are incomplete or received without a handwritten signature will not be considered for the position. Applicants are responsible for submitting materials that are in accordance with the attached information at the place and time specified. There will be no exceptions.
References must be able to provide substantive information about past performance relevant to the applicant's ability to execute the duties and responsibilities as detailed in the scope of work. USAID/Uganda reserves the right to obtain from previous employers relevant information concerning the applicant's past performance and may consider such information in its evaluation.
Any questions may be directed to Grace Nakaddu who may be reached by email at: gnakaddu@usaid.gov, with copy to Grace Muntu at gmuntu@usaid.gov (telephone 256-414-259-791/5 or 256-414-306-001 or fax 256-414-306-661).
Offerors should retain for their records copies of all enclosures that accompany their application.
Sincerely,
Edward Michalski
Supvy. Executive Officer
ATTACHMENT TO
SOLICITATION FOR PERSONAL SERVICES CONTRACTOR
Senior Supply Chain Systems Advisor (SSCSA)
1. SOLICITATION NUMBER: 617-0000-11-0003
2. ISSUANCE DATE: June 13, 2011
3. CLOSING DATE: June 27, 2011, 4:45p.m. (Kampala time)
4. POSITION TITLE: Senior Supply Chain Systems Advisor (SSCSA)
5. MARKET VALUE: GS-14
6. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: Two years from date of appointment.
MARKET VALUE: The position is classified at the equivalent of a GS-14 with an annual salary range of $84,697 to $110,104. Salary will be negotiated within this range and determined based on past salary and work history, experience, and educational background of the successful candidate.
7. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: USAID/Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
8. AREA OF CONSIDERATION: U.S Citizens, U.S. Resident Aliens, U.S. citizens and
Resident Aliens (residing in Uganda), and TCNs
9. SECURITY ACCESS: Employment Authorization Level
10. POSITION DESCRIPTION:
A. BACKGROUND
USAID/Uganda’s activities are of exceptionally broad scope and complexity. In FY 2010 (FY10) the overall U.S. Government (USG) assistance to Uganda totaled $526M, with USAID accounting for $341M. USAID/Uganda directed $131.5M to mitigate the effects of the 23-year conflict in northern Uganda, integrally linking USG interagency efforts in the areas of HIV/AIDS, infrastructure, defense, and diplomacy. The USAID development program contains 68 active assistance awards with a total multi-year portfolio value of $765M. The Mission’s complex and challenging assistance program consists of five action areas: economic growth and biodiversity; health and education; democracy and governance; regional peace and security; and humanitarian assistance. Mission programs implementing the Presidents Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), the Presidents Malaria Initiative (PMI), the Global Health Initiative (GHI) and the Feed the Future Initiative (FtF) are among the largest in the world. The Mission manages one of the largest biodiversity earmarks in Africa and concluded its Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) threshold program in 2009. USAID programs promote the critical U.S. national security goal of a stable Uganda that takes a leadership role in regional peacekeeping, including its operations in Somalia and efforts to end civil conflict in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Mission operates a satellite office at Gulu in northern Uganda that coordinates regional relief and development efforts.
The position is located in the Strategic Objective 8 (SO8), Investing in People office. SO8 is the largest SO Team in USAID/Uganda, with 35 staff and an annual budget of US$205M. SO8 is divided into three sub-teams – HIV/AIDS, Health, and Education. This position is in the Health sub-Team, but serves as a senior advisor across the Health and HIV/AIDS programs and teams, and the Interagency PEPFAR, PMI, and FtF programs, totaling over $350M.
The Health sub-Team and HIV/AIDS sub-Team together manage a wide array of programs, many of which are cross-cutting and integrated in design. The Health sub-Team budget in FY10 is approximately US$65M and the HIV/AIDS sub-team budget is $149M. Each element of the portfolio contributes to the GHI, seeking country-led health approaches that focus on integration of services, leveraging host country and other donor investments, strengthening health systems, a focus on women and girls, improved application of evaluation, innovation, and science and technology. USAID/Uganda seeks to implement the GHI principles through the public sector, the private not for profit sector, and the private for profit sector. While the GHI is the overarching framework for all activities, several elements of the health portfolio are significant and complex on their own, including:
• Recognizing the global HIV/AIDS pandemic as one of the greatest health challenges of our time, the USG announced PEPFAR in 2003. Uganda received approximately US$298M in FY 2010 to support a comprehensive HIV/AIDS prevention, care, and treatment programs, including support for OVC, systems strengthening, and overall improvements in service delivery. USAID/Uganda accounts for $149M of the $298M interagency USG response.
• In 2005, PMI launched its five-year, US$1.2 billion initiative to rapidly scale-up malaria prevention and treatment interventions in high-burden countries of sub-Saharan Africa in order to reduce malaria-related mortality. This will be achieved by reaching 85% coverage of the most vulnerable groups (children under five years of age, pregnant women, and people living with HIV/AIDS), with proven preventive and therapeutic interventions. USAID/Uganda manages the $35M malaria portfolio in close collaboration with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
• Other initiatives include coordinating and contributing to USG epidemic preparedness activities for emerging pandemic threats, and supporting the control or elimination of several “neglected” tropical diseases still endemic in Uganda. (RH/FP) Programs include activities to promote improved reproductive health through couple communication, health education, prevention of gender-based violence, fistula repair, improved family planning services, and by providing a supply of contraceptives to both the public and the private sector.
• Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH) activities support improved maternal and childhood nutrition, safer pregnancy and delivery, newborn care, vaccination coverage, improved well and sick-child capacity at health facilities, ORS and zinc, safe water, and an improved logistics and supply chain for essential drugs.
• Nutrition activities in S08 include the micronutrient fortification and supplementation, technical assistance to the MOH for improved nutrition policies and guidelines, prevention and treatment of under-nutrition in pregnant women and young children, therapeutic feeding for people living with HIV/AIDS and supplemental feeding for and Vulnerable Children (VC). All nutrition activities are part of the FTF initiative. Through FTF, the USG supports investments in agricultural productivity, reduced trade and transportation barriers, market-based agriculture, increased participation of the very-poor in rural growth, climate change adaptation, improved nutrition, and increased effectiveness of humanitarian assistance. FY10 investments for FTF are approximately $38 million.
Commodities and logistics play a critical role in each of the complex health programs and Presidential initiatives within the USAID/Uganda Mission portfolio. Weak supply chain for essential medicines and supplies is one of the biggest bottlenecks to improving the health and nutrition status of Ugandans. In 2009/10, seventy-nine percent of health facilities in Uganda experienced stockouts of essential medicines. A chronically weak health system, compounded by the challenges of corruption and accountability in the management of drugs makes commodities, logistics, and supply chain one of the most challenging areas of USAID’s development assistance. It is also one of the top priorities of all Health Development Partners collectively in Uganda. Given the importance of adequate commodities and a functioning supply chain to the overall health system, this remains one of the most critical areas of USAID support in Uganda, requiring advanced technical skills, political and diplomatic tact, and innovative problem-solving in partnership with a wide variety of stakeholders.
All Mission activities are organized under USAID/Uganda’s Country Development Cooperation Strategy (CDCS) for 2010-2015, with the following overall goal: Uganda’s transition to a modern and prosperous country accelerated. Specific objectives related to commodities, logistics, and supply chain will be realized through a focus on Development Objective 3: Improved health and nutrition status in focus areas and population groups. A focus on decentralization, targeting districts and key populations, and working multisectorally are all key features of the CDCS. The CDCS aligns with Uganda’s National Development Plan goals and objectives.
B. BASIC FUNCTION:
The Senior Supply Chain Systems Advisor (SSCSA) is an essential and indispensable senior leader of SO8, GHI, PEPFAR, PMI, and the FTF efforts, providing strategic, technical and program expertise to the Health and HIV/AIDS Teams under SO8, technical guidance in the U.S. Mission’s interagency health efforts under GHI, and nutrition efforts within FTF. This requires highly specialized skills, knowledge and experience related to commodities, logistics, and supply chain systems (CLSC). This position is critical to the success of nearly $300 million in U.S. Government health assistance to Uganda through PEPFAR, USAID, CDC and other USG programs operating in the health sector of Uganda. Drug supply and distribution are lynchpins to the success of nearly every USG funded activity in the health sector and are a critical building block of the health system in Uganda.
The primary responsibilities focus on priority setting within a highly political environment, project management and senior-level technical advice on CLSC to members of the SO8 team, the FtF and GHI initiatives including the interagency PEPFAR and PMI programs. This position requires extensive high-level contacts within the U.S. community in both Uganda and Washington D.C. on commodity issues. The incumbent works with all USG agencies and all USAID implementing partners, managing a cross cutting contract for assistance to the national drug supply and distribution program that has direct impact on the service delivery accomplishments of U.S.G. supported programs in Uganda. As such, the incumbent advises all U.S.G. Agency heads on matters of drug supply and distribution, and provides U.S.G. inter face with senior officials in the Ministry of Health to resolve issues and ensure efficiencies in the national drug supply system. Specific contacts include: the Mission Director and Deputy Director; the U.S. Ambassador, Deputy Chief of Mission; the Global Health Bureau in Washington; the US Mission in Kampala’s Interagency Health Team; the Pharmacy Division Manager of the Ministry of Health; the General Managers of National Medical Stores (NMS) and Joint Medical Stores (JMS); the National Drug Authority (NDA); Chiefs of Party and other technical staff of implementing partners; other Health Development Partners (HDP); and Civil Society.
The SSCSA serves as Mission point of contact for all matters related to health CLSC. S/he works to ensure technical and programmatic synergy within USAID/Uganda, USG interagency health CLSC activities, and those of Government of Uganda (GoU) and other development partners and stakeholders by facilitating the exchange of technical information, guiding and managing USAID CLSC programs, and identifying and fostering opportunities for partnership on technical and programmatic activities. The SSCSA is responsible for working within a traditionally weak sector to foster GoU ownership on issues related to essential medicines, supplies, and logistics issues, all of which have routinely fallen short of stated goals and commitments sector strategy and implementation plans, despite their critical nature. The SSCSA represents USAID in national-level technical, programmatic, and policy meetings, and in consultations with other donors, government officials, and implementing partners. S/he also participates in USG interagency coordination meetings as related to various health and multisectoral initiatives. The SSCSA works on integrating a common approach to CLSC across all initiatives, such as common approaches to quantification, forecasting, warehousing, distribution, information management, district capacity-building, and commodity procurement. The SSCSA keeps abreast of current publications and information on CLSC and its programming in developing countries in order to advise the Mission.
The SSCSA functions as part of a larger Health Systems Strengthening (HSS) team to ensure more sustainable health programming, beyond CLSC. S/he will work with the members of the HSS team and PEPFAR HSS Technical working group and other relevant forums in planning and improving the USAID and USG portfolio on health systems strengthening (HSS) related projects and activities in the public and private health sector of Uganda, notably the expansion of USAID support to the private sector, both not for profit and for profit, in strengthening their institutions for sustainability. S/he will function as the focal point on HSS related issues when required.
The SSCSA will work closely with USAID/Uganda CLSC implementing partners (and other USAID and USG partners as appropriate), providing technical assistance and other support to ensure the uninterrupted supply of essential health medicines and supplies. The SSCSA will work with the Ministry of Health (MOH), the private sector, civil society and other stakeholders including coordination with multilateral and bilateral donors to improve the functions of forecasting, procurement planning and inventory control, financing, distribution and customer service in relation to CLSC.
The SSCSA requires a positive and proactive attitude. Leadership and diplomacy skills are critical, as the SSCSA will work with a variety of multisectoral and multiagency teams. The SSCSA will be a member of a multi-disciplinary, 35-person team implementing USAID programs under the SO8 team for Health, HIV/AIDS and Education. The SAC will serve as a senior member of the HSS Unit within SO8, and will report to the Deputy Health Team Leader for HSS. While the incumbent will report to the Deputy for HSS, S/he is expected to work closely and collaboratively with all of SO8, with the PEPFAR and PMI interagency teams, with the FtF and GHI teams, and with other USAID/Uganda and interagency USG/Uganda staff and programs. The SAC will be expected to complete assigned duties with little direct supervision, exercising extensive independent judgment as he or she works extensively through diverse teams.
Given the critical, yet politically sensitive nature of work in CLSC, the SSCSA will also provide senior strategic and technical leadership to advise the U.S. Ambassador and USAID Mission Director related to engagement in Uganda with CLSC issues. This advice and engagement with U.S. Mission leadership will be essential during the development of the PEPFAR Partnership Framework and establishing partnerships under the GHI framework and will involve strong relationship-building skills with various stakeholders including the MOH, the NMS, JMS, and other development partners. The SSCSA’s diplomacy and negotiation skills will be essential during U.S negotiation and development of plans with the GoU and the MOH to increase GoU ownership and leadership in CLSC.
C. SPECIFIC DUTIES:
TECHNICAL GUIDANCE, LEADERSHIP, AND ADVOCACY IN HEALTH COMMODITY, LOGISTICS AND SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT AND HEALTH SYSTEMS (40%)
The SSCSA serves as principal advisor for all matters related to health CLSC, providing strategic leadership in identifying and applying innovative approaches and best practices to achieve USAID, USG, GoU CLSC and broader health systems goals. Specific duties include:
1. Serving as principal advisor to SO-8 leadership, Mission Director and Deputy Mission Director on all issues related to drug policy, drug supply and distribution assistance. As such, also provides advice and counsel to other USG agencies in the health sector on drug supply and distribution issues.
2. Representing USAID/Uganda and its CLSC program with the GOU as it relates to health, nutrition and HIV/AIDS programs. This includes representing USAID in technical and coordination meetings with the GOU, other donors and non-government and private sector organizations on issues related CLSC including the MOH Medicines and Supplies Working Group.
3. Providing technical assistance to the MOH and other GOU and USAID/USG implementing partners involved in CLSC, in order to strengthen procurement planning and management, forecasting, distribution and storage of drugs and other commodity requirements at the national, district, and facility level. This includes technical advice and guidance on logistics information management, forecasting and procurement planning capacities. Regular partners include USAID implementing partners, the MOH Pharmacy Division, National Medical Stores (NMS), Joint Medical Stores (JMS), National Drug Authority (NDA), and others as applicable. The SAC will advise other SO8 team members concerning logistics management within their respective activities. S/he will provide technical guidance on the planning and mobilization of resources for the commodities procured under various global alliances, including the Global Fund for AIDS, TB and Malaria (GFATM), Global Alliance for Immunization and Vaccines (GAVI), and the Global Alliance for Improving Nutrition (GAIN).
4. Managing and coordinating the forecasting, quantification, and procurement of USAID (and as appropriate assisting with U.S. Government and national) commodities including contraceptives, Anti-Retrovirals, HIV test kits, TB drugs, Malaria drugs, malaria rapid diagnostic tests, long-lasting insecticide treated bednets, essential medicines, Vitamin A, other essential medicines, laboratory supplies, and other medical equipment.
5. Planning and improving the USAID and USG portfolio on health systems strengthening (HSS) related projects and activities in the public and private health sector of Uganda, notably in the potential expansion of USAID support to the private sector, both not for profit and for profit, in strengthening the private sector health services for improved access and long-term sustainability.
6. Serving as member of the HSS team and PEPFAR HSS Technical working group and other relevant forums in planning and improving the USAID and USG portfolio on health systems strengthening related projects and activities in the public and private health sector of Uganda, notably the expansion of USAID support to the private sector, both not for profit and for profit, in strengthening their institutions for sustainability. S/he will function as the focal point on HSS related issues when required.
7. Providing technical and management contributions to USG thematic groups, program designs, budget allocations, strategic planning documents, and reporting mechanisms. Thematic groups include interagency working groups under GHI and FtF including PEPFAR and PMI working groups as applicable. Program design work includes technical review committees for new and/or follow-on CLSC and other related awards. Budget allocations and strategic planning documents include Mission Strategies, strategic planning and budgeting under GHI, FtF, PEPFAR, and PMI, as well as coordinated planning documents among the GOU and development partners. Reporting mechanisms include U.S. Congressional, GOU or donor group requests; technical briefings; trip reports; site visit briefing documents; speeches; portfolio reviews; semi-annual and annual reports; quarterly financial reports; quality assessments; site monitoring reports; etc.
8. Keeping informed of national and international initiatives and policies and state-of-the-art developments related to CLSC, share information as appropriate with various counterparts.
PROGRAM MANAGEMENT (35%)
The SSCSA is responsible for the managing a complex portfolio of CLSC including the direct management of several programs and serving as principal advisor on numerous others. Drug supply and distribution are lynchpins to the success of nearly every USG funded activity (over $300M) in the health sector. This includes planning, implementation, management, monitoring, results reporting, advocacy and performance improvement of USAID’s CLSC activities, coordinating these activities as needed with other USG implementing health programs. Specific duties include:
1. Serving as principal advisor all SO8 health partners on drug supply and distribution issues. Develops and coordinates Mission drug supply and distribution policy among approximately 50 implementing partners. Advise on drug supply and distribution policy across the USG $300M health programs. Develops and coordinates drug and supply chain Mission policy as a component of the USG’s health systems approach to development, applying approaches to drug supply and distribution that are consistent with a health systems approach.
2. Serving as Agreement Officer’s Technical Representative (AOTR), Contracting Officer’s Technical Representative (COTR), or activity manager for programs related to CLSC, including USAID/Uganda’s unique bilateral supply chain technical assistance program. USAID implementing partners include USAID/Uganda’s bilateral technical assistance program in supply chain strengthening in the public and private sectors, and several other programs that manage the procurement of a wide variety of health commodities). S/he will also provide provides significant technical assistance on commodity projects including various CLSC aspects across the Mission, PEPFAR, PMI, GHI and FtF. As COTR/AOTR, or activity manager the SAC will: ensure suitable monitoring and reporting systems are in place, providing technical input in the development of Performance Monitoring Plans (PMPs); review, approve, and ensure compliance with Implementing Partner annual work plans and budgets; conduct regular site visits to monitor activities and verify asset use; guide implementing partners to adhere to USAID and USG policies and procedures; review all written reports submitted by Implementing Partners and furnish feedback; maintain program files, and other duties and responsibilities as outlined in USAID rules, regulations, policies and other forms of appropriate guidance.
3. Guiding and overseeing USAID procurement and distribution of approximately $25 million in health supplies and commodities annually. Commodities procured and distributed under these activities include contraceptives, condoms, Anti-Retrovirals (ARV), HIV test kits, TB and anti-malaria drugs, micronutrients (Vitamin A, iron, folate), laboratory reagent and supplies, vaccine supplies and equipment, and other commodities required for the implementation of HIV/AIDS and health programs. This includes assisting with commodity demand forecasting, and ensuring that all procurement activities are implemented in compliance with relevant USAID, USG, PEPFAR and PMI guidelines, policies, regulations and procedures.
MULTI-AGENCY COORDINATION AND STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS IN CLSC AND HEALTH SYSTEMS (20%)
The SSCSA is the USAID focal point for coordination with various entities of the GOU, other donors, the private sector, and civil society on matters relating to CLSC. S/he works to ensure technical and programmatic synergy within USAID/Uganda, USG interagency health CLSC activities, and those of GoU and other development partners and stakeholders. S/he develops strategic partnerships with other donors on coordinated approaches to complex health systems strengthening programs aimed to improve the functioning of the public and private health sector in Uganda, many of which include elements of CLSC. Specific duties include:
1. Representing USAID on all matters of drug supply and distribution with senior level officials in the Ministry of Health and among senior donor community representatives. This includes MOH, NMS, JMS, NDA, the Uganda Health Marketing Group (UHMG), Ministry of Finance Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED).
2. Coordinating commodity procurement and other CLSC support with other donor agencies. This requires close collaboration with high-level representatives of other donor agencies in order to manage technical, political, and diplomatic effects of a coordinated donor response to CLSC with the SAC will specifically focus efforts on The Global Fund, which has disbursed over $250M to Uganda for health activities in recent years, DFID, who is planning over $50M of health activities in coming years, and UNFPA, which provides essential support to reproductive health and family planning programs. Other contacts for close collaboration include the Uganda Family Planning Consortium as well as other appropriate local public sector and non-governmental entities such as GAVI, GAIN, Clinton Foundation and others. S/he will also monitor the political environment and other donor activities to inform USAID/Uganda’s funding and programmatic decisions.
3. Providing USAID leadership in fostering strategic partnerships among donors including GFTAM, the World Bank, UNFPA, DFID, and others to ensure timely and consistent supply of essential medicines across a variety of supply chain systems in both the public and private sector. These partnerships have the potential to leverage tens of millions of USD for health systems and CLSC programs in Uganda in order for USAID investments to have greater impact on public and private health systems in Uganda. This includes collaboration on joint programming with DFID as part of the Global Alliance for Reproductive, Maternal, and Newborn, Health.
4. Providing leadership in developing relationships with the private sector in Uganda, notably the expansion of USAID support to the private sector, both not for profit and for profit, in strengthening their institutions for sustainability.
5. Serving as USAID/Uganda’s representative on the MOH Medicines and Supplies Working Group and other centralized working groups relevant to CLSC, and representing USAID with multi-lateral donor coordination organizations and in defining the donor technical, policy and program agenda with the MOH and other Ministries.
6. Leading coordination efforts between USAID’s CLSC implementing partners; facilitate coordination with other USG CLSC implementing partners.
OTHER (5%)
The SSCSA is responsible for other duties related to CLSC and Mission priorities as assigned, including:
1. Organizing and participating in field visits by external parties that highlight USAID’s CLSC activities.
2. Making recommendations to the Mission on program directions and management.
D. POSITION ELEMENTS:
Supervision Received: Works under the general supervision of the Deputy Health Team Leader for HSS and collaboratively with other members of the Health, HIV/AIDS, GHI, PEPFAR, PMI, and FtF teams and working groups. Assignments are primarily in terms of program objectives and desired results. Accomplishments are evaluated for conformance with policy and accomplishment of USAID/Uganda objectives and individual work objectives through periodic and annual evaluations.
Available Guidelines: Host-country laws, USAID Handbooks, and the ADSs on project implementation, commodity procurement, contracting, and policy, and other regulations. Handbook guidance is supplemented by Mission Orders governing policy, procedure, and regulation, the mission organization chart, and position description.
Post Entry Training: On-the-job training will be provided relating to USAID-specific procedures, regulations, and methods; and CLSC policies, procedures, and regulations, including the Automated Directives System (ADS), Mission Orders, and all planning and reporting databases. Formal C/AOTR certification courses will be provided, and program/project management and other appropriate training courses will be offered, subject to course offerings and the availability of funds. The contractor shall annually complete OGE 450, Financial Disclosure Report. The contractor shall attend mandatory annual Ethics training conducted at USAID/Uganda by the Regional Legal Advisor.
Exercise of Judgment: Substantial judgment (discretion) is used daily in giving technical guidance to USG, USAID, and GoU colleagues, to Implementing Partners (IPs), and in representing USAID in multiple-stakeholder fora. Management decisions over certain IPs are at the discretion of the SAC. Substantial judgment is required in analyzing and determining whether or not to recommend approval of proposed programs/projects, in choosing among alternative proposals, and in evaluating data for reliability.
Authority to Make Commitments: Contractor shall not make any unauthorized commitments for the USG. However, the incumbent exercises the authority given to activity managers and C/AOTRs, and may make administrative arrangements consistent with ADS guidance and Mission policy. The incumbent takes action and establishes priorities based on available guidelines and professional judgment. Guidance is sought when needed, and the supervisor informed of activity and project status. Within the scope of the authority delegated, the incumbent may indicate to ranking counterpart and IP officials that they will make a recommendation to USAID on a specific activity issue or problem. The incumbent may negotiate ad referendum for the immediate supervisor.
Nature, Level, and Purpose of Contacts: Must be able to develop and maintain contacts with all levels of staff in the Mission, including senior leadership. The SAC shall provide consistent, credible and diplomatic representation of USAID to high level GOU, donor, and other partner contacts for technical, policy and program management issues related to commodity security and logistics management. Maintain an extensive range of mid-to senior-level contacts in government, donor, and private-sector circles for purposes of project implementation, obtaining and interpreting information relevant to program activities, providing guidance and procedures and discussing submitted proposals. Primary contacts are at the MOH, NMS, JMS, NDA, other development partners, civil society, and the private sector. Represent USAID in international and national technical fora, with multiple stakeholders.
Supervision Exercised: Continuing supervision of other Mission staff is not immediately expected, but may be necessary in the future of one local engaged staff focused on commodity and supply chain.
E. QUALIFICATION AND EVALUATION CRITERIA
USAID/Uganda expects to award a two year personal services contract. The successful applicant must be capable of securing a U.S. Government "Employment Authorization" security clearance. S/he must be able to secure a medical clearance.
Applicants meeting the required qualifications for the position will be evaluated based on information presented in the application and obtained through reference checks. USAID reserves the right to conduct telephonic interviews with the most highly ranked applicants and make the interview a deciding factor in selection.
Education (10 points):
Candidate must have a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as, public health, international development, logistics and supply chain management, or a closely related degree.
Prior Work Experience (25 Points):
A minimum 10 years of progressively responsible professional experience working in the health or international development field in Uganda or a similar developing country setting;
Five years of this experience should be in direct management of activities in health or development; including designing, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating activities in the delivery of CLSC programs;
Relevant experience working or collaborating with other donors, governments and international organizations is a must.
Knowledge – all required (35 Points):
State-of-the art, specialized knowledge of technical and programmatic approaches in CLSC is required, including all aspects of CLSC and its role in health sector programming. Demonstrated knowledge of CLSC as it relates to and interacts with health systems strengthening approaches comprehensively is required. This includes demonstrated knowledge of quantification, forecasting, warehousing, distribution, information management, district capacity-building, and commodity procurement practice;
Significant knowledge of program management strategies, and monitoring and evaluation methods;
A thorough knowledge of the concepts, principles, techniques, and practices of Uganda’s health policies and programs;
A thorough knowledge of Uganda’s economic, political, social, and cultural characteristics, and the history of development assistance, in particular as it relates to health programs in Uganda, including current trends and directions;
Knowledge of global commodity and procurement programs including the GFTAM, GAVI, and others.
Skills and Abilities – all required (30 Points):
Must be able to work effectively with mid- and senior-level public and civil society officials from the GoU, other development partners, and the private sector;
Demonstrated ability to work and provide leadership in a team environment, coordinate well with others, and provide leadership in the areas of his/her competencies;
Must be able to develop effective and collaborative managerial relationships with implementing partners;
Excellent writing and computer skills, in order to develop presentations, reports;
Diplomacy, tact, negotiation skills, cultural sensitivity, and team participation skills are required, in order to establish and maintain effective working relationships within USAID, and with the public and private sectors;
Excellent organizational skills in order to multi-task and stay organized in a complex, frequently changing environment;
Demonstrated advanced analytical skills and problem solving, as well as the ability to effectively manage stress and conflict;
Demonstrated ability in strategic thinking and decision-making as well as technical analysis, is required.
11. NOTICE TO APPLICANTS:
The most qualified candidates may be interviewed. Professional references and academic credential will be evaluated for applicants being considered for selection. USAID reserves the right to obtain from previous employers relevant information concerning the applicant’s past performance and may consider such information in its evaluation. USAID/Uganda shall not pay for any expenses associated with the interviews.
12. TERMS OF APPOINTMENT AND COMPENSATION:
Subject to availability of funds, this will be a two year contract. This position has been classified at a U. S. Government GS-14. The actual salary of the successful candidate will be negotiated within the range depending on qualifications and previous earning history.
This solicitation is for a U.S citizen and Resident Aliens offshore, local hire American or Alien nationals (resident in Uganda) or TCNs. Benefits and allowances will be paid in accordance with the policies and procedures set out in USAID Acquisition Regulation (AIDAR) Appendix D or J depending on whether the successful candidate is a US citizen (offshore), TCN (offshore), or local hire U.S. Citizen (resident hire) found at http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/aidar/pdf: These are summarized below:
A. OFFSHORE AMERICAN AND RESIDENT ALIEN BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES:
(1) Benefits:
1. Employee’s F.I.C.A. & MEDICARE contributions
2. Contribution toward Health & Life Insurance
-- 72% of Health Insurance Annual Premium (not to exceed $7,266 for contractor only and $20,339 for contractor with family)
-- 50 % of Life Insurance Annual Premium (not to exceed $500)
3. Pay Comparability Adjustment
--Annual across the board salary increase for USG employees and USPSCs
4. Annual Step Increase except if at the top step of the grade
5. Eligibility for Worker's Compensation
6. Annual & Sick Leave
(2) Allowances (if applicable)*
A. Temporary Lodging Allowance (Section 120)
B. Living Quarters Allowance (Section 130)
C. Post Allowance (Section 220)
D. Supplemental Post Allowance (Section 230)
E. Separate Maintenance Allowance (Section 260)
F. Education Allowance (Section 270)
G. Education Travel (Section 280)
H. Post Differential (Chapter 500)
I. Payments during Evacuation/Authorized Departure (Section 600)
J. Danger Pay (Section 650)
B. LOCAL HIRE AMERICAN OR RESIDENT ALIEN BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES:
1. Employee’s F.I.C.A. & MEDICARE contributions
2. Contribution toward Health & Life Insurance
-- 72% of Health Insurance Annual Premium (not to exceed $7,266 for contractor only)
-- 50 % of Life Insurance Annual Premium (not to exceed $500)
3. Pay Comparability Adjustment
--Annual across the board salary increase for USG employees and USPSCs
4. Annual Step Increase except if at the top step of the grade
5. Eligibility for Worker's Compensation
6. Annual & Sick Leave
Federal Taxes: USPSCs are not exempt from payment of Federal Income taxes under the foreign earned income exclusion.
C. TCN BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES:
A TCN is normally authorized the following benefits and allowances in accordance with the AIDAR Appendix J:
1. Contribution toward Medical Insurance for up to 6 dependents.
2. Pay Adjustment based on changes in the Local Compensation Plan.
3. Annual Step Increase except if at the top step of the grade.
4. Annual & Sick Leave.
5. Retirement benefit.
NOTE: In exceptional cases (as supported and justified) and only with the prior approval of the Mission Director, an off-shore TCN may be granted the same or similar benefits accorded to an offshore USPSC.
ALL QUALIFIED APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED REGARDLESS OF AGE, RACE, COLOR, SEX, CREED, NATIONAL ORIGIN, LAWFUL POLITICAL AFFILIATION, NON-DISQUALIFYING HANDICAP, MARITAL STATUS, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, AFFILIATION WITH AN EMPLOYEE ORGANIZATION, OR OTHER NON-MERIT FACTOR.
Various Contract Information Bulletins (CIBs) and Acquisition and Assistance Policy Directives (AAPDs) pertaining to PSCs are available at: http://www.usaid.gov/business/business_opportunities/cib/
CIBs and AAPDs contain changes to USAID policy and General Provisions in USAID regulations and contracts. Please refer to the website to determine which CIBs and AAPDs apply to this contract. Additionally, AIDAR Appendixes D and J also apply to PSCs, which can be found at: http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/aidar.pdf
D. SECURITY AND MEDICAL CLEARANCES:
The successful candidate will not be able to travel nor commence work until:
An employment authorization security clearance is obtained. For U.S. citizens and U.S. Resident Aliens, this would be handled by AID/Security in Washington DC. For TCNs the U.S. Embassy in Kampala will conduct the investigation upon submission of the required documentation.
A medical clearance is obtained. For offshore U.S. citizens and U.S. Resident Aliens, this would entail clearance from the Department of State Medical Services. For resident U.S. Citizens, U.S. Resident Aliens and TCN, this would be from his/her physician/medical doctor of medicine.
NOTE: If a temporary security clearance and medical clearance are not obtained within 4 months, the offer may be rescinded.
List of Required Forms:
(A) Optional Form 612
Note: The forms listed below B through G shall only be completed upon the advice of the Contracting Officer that an applicant is the successful candidate for the job.
(B) Contractor Physical Examination (DS Form 1843)
(C) EQIP Questionnaire for Sensitive Positions (for National Security (SF-86) or
(D) EQIP Questionnaire for Non-Sensitive Positions (SF-85)
(E) EQIP Signature Forms (3-CER, REL, MEL)
(F) Finger print Card (SF-87) (available from requirements office)
(G) AID 6-85 (Foreign Residence Data)
13. INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLICANTS:
HOW TO APPLY
Qualified individuals MUST submit:
A. Completed and hand-signed U.S. Government Optional Form 612 available websites Shortcut to: http://www.opm.gov/forms/pdf_fill/of612.pdf;
B. Curriculum vitae/resume specifically addressing each selection criterion as outlined in the solicitation;
C. Three (3) to five (5) references with current contact information.
To ensure applications are received in the Executive Office before the closing date, applications shall be submitted preferably by email. Additionally, fax, handcarry, DHL or FEDEX air courier are acceptable.
VIA EMAIL: To gnakaddu@usaid.gov copy to gmuntu@usaid.gov
VIA FAX: To Fax Number: 256-414-306-661
(VIA HANDCARRY/INTERNATIONAL COURIER)
Executive Officer
USAID/Uganda
US Embassy Compound – South Wing
Plot 1577 Ggaba Road
P. O. Box 7856, Kampala, Uganda
CLOSING DATE: Applications must be in the USAID/Uganda Executive Office no later than 4:45 p.m. Ugandan time Friday, June 27, 2011.
NOTE REGARDING GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS FOR THIS SOLICITATION
This solicitation in no way obligates USAID to award a PSC contract, nor does it commit USAID to pay any cost incurred in the preparation and submission of the application.
Filling this position is contingent upon availability of funding and completion of final internal administrative approvals.
CLOSING DATE: June 27, 2011
The United States Government, represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development
(USAID)/Uganda, is seeking applications from U.S citizens and Resident Aliens offshore, local
Hire American nationals and U.S. Resident Aliens (resident in Uganda) or Third Country
Nationals interested in providing PSC services as described in the attached solicitation.
Applicants interested in applying for this position MUST submit the following materials:
1) Complete and hand-signed federal form OF-612.
2) Curriculum vitae/resume specifically addressing each selection criterion as outlined in the solicitation.
3) Three (3) to five (5) references with current contact information.
No exceptions to the minimum document submission requirements will be allowed. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
All application reviews will be based on the documentation submitted with the application. Applications that are incomplete or received without a handwritten signature will not be considered for the position. Applicants are responsible for submitting materials that are in accordance with the attached information at the place and time specified. There will be no exceptions.
References must be able to provide substantive information about past performance relevant to the applicant's ability to execute the duties and responsibilities as detailed in the scope of work. USAID/Uganda reserves the right to obtain from previous employers relevant information concerning the applicant's past performance and may consider such information in its evaluation.
Any questions may be directed to Grace Nakaddu who may be reached by email at: gnakaddu@usaid.gov, with copy to Grace Muntu at gmuntu@usaid.gov (telephone 256-414-259-791/5 or 256-414-306-001 or fax 256-414-306-661).
Offerors should retain for their records copies of all enclosures that accompany their application.
Sincerely,
Edward Michalski
Supvy. Executive Officer
ATTACHMENT TO
SOLICITATION FOR PERSONAL SERVICES CONTRACTOR
Senior Supply Chain Systems Advisor (SSCSA)
1. SOLICITATION NUMBER: 617-0000-11-0003
2. ISSUANCE DATE: June 13, 2011
3. CLOSING DATE: June 27, 2011, 4:45p.m. (Kampala time)
4. POSITION TITLE: Senior Supply Chain Systems Advisor (SSCSA)
5. MARKET VALUE: GS-14
6. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: Two years from date of appointment.
MARKET VALUE: The position is classified at the equivalent of a GS-14 with an annual salary range of $84,697 to $110,104. Salary will be negotiated within this range and determined based on past salary and work history, experience, and educational background of the successful candidate.
7. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: USAID/Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
8. AREA OF CONSIDERATION: U.S Citizens, U.S. Resident Aliens, U.S. citizens and
Resident Aliens (residing in Uganda), and TCNs
9. SECURITY ACCESS: Employment Authorization Level
10. POSITION DESCRIPTION:
A. BACKGROUND
USAID/Uganda’s activities are of exceptionally broad scope and complexity. In FY 2010 (FY10) the overall U.S. Government (USG) assistance to Uganda totaled $526M, with USAID accounting for $341M. USAID/Uganda directed $131.5M to mitigate the effects of the 23-year conflict in northern Uganda, integrally linking USG interagency efforts in the areas of HIV/AIDS, infrastructure, defense, and diplomacy. The USAID development program contains 68 active assistance awards with a total multi-year portfolio value of $765M. The Mission’s complex and challenging assistance program consists of five action areas: economic growth and biodiversity; health and education; democracy and governance; regional peace and security; and humanitarian assistance. Mission programs implementing the Presidents Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), the Presidents Malaria Initiative (PMI), the Global Health Initiative (GHI) and the Feed the Future Initiative (FtF) are among the largest in the world. The Mission manages one of the largest biodiversity earmarks in Africa and concluded its Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) threshold program in 2009. USAID programs promote the critical U.S. national security goal of a stable Uganda that takes a leadership role in regional peacekeeping, including its operations in Somalia and efforts to end civil conflict in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Mission operates a satellite office at Gulu in northern Uganda that coordinates regional relief and development efforts.
The position is located in the Strategic Objective 8 (SO8), Investing in People office. SO8 is the largest SO Team in USAID/Uganda, with 35 staff and an annual budget of US$205M. SO8 is divided into three sub-teams – HIV/AIDS, Health, and Education. This position is in the Health sub-Team, but serves as a senior advisor across the Health and HIV/AIDS programs and teams, and the Interagency PEPFAR, PMI, and FtF programs, totaling over $350M.
The Health sub-Team and HIV/AIDS sub-Team together manage a wide array of programs, many of which are cross-cutting and integrated in design. The Health sub-Team budget in FY10 is approximately US$65M and the HIV/AIDS sub-team budget is $149M. Each element of the portfolio contributes to the GHI, seeking country-led health approaches that focus on integration of services, leveraging host country and other donor investments, strengthening health systems, a focus on women and girls, improved application of evaluation, innovation, and science and technology. USAID/Uganda seeks to implement the GHI principles through the public sector, the private not for profit sector, and the private for profit sector. While the GHI is the overarching framework for all activities, several elements of the health portfolio are significant and complex on their own, including:
• Recognizing the global HIV/AIDS pandemic as one of the greatest health challenges of our time, the USG announced PEPFAR in 2003. Uganda received approximately US$298M in FY 2010 to support a comprehensive HIV/AIDS prevention, care, and treatment programs, including support for OVC, systems strengthening, and overall improvements in service delivery. USAID/Uganda accounts for $149M of the $298M interagency USG response.
• In 2005, PMI launched its five-year, US$1.2 billion initiative to rapidly scale-up malaria prevention and treatment interventions in high-burden countries of sub-Saharan Africa in order to reduce malaria-related mortality. This will be achieved by reaching 85% coverage of the most vulnerable groups (children under five years of age, pregnant women, and people living with HIV/AIDS), with proven preventive and therapeutic interventions. USAID/Uganda manages the $35M malaria portfolio in close collaboration with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
• Other initiatives include coordinating and contributing to USG epidemic preparedness activities for emerging pandemic threats, and supporting the control or elimination of several “neglected” tropical diseases still endemic in Uganda. (RH/FP) Programs include activities to promote improved reproductive health through couple communication, health education, prevention of gender-based violence, fistula repair, improved family planning services, and by providing a supply of contraceptives to both the public and the private sector.
• Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH) activities support improved maternal and childhood nutrition, safer pregnancy and delivery, newborn care, vaccination coverage, improved well and sick-child capacity at health facilities, ORS and zinc, safe water, and an improved logistics and supply chain for essential drugs.
• Nutrition activities in S08 include the micronutrient fortification and supplementation, technical assistance to the MOH for improved nutrition policies and guidelines, prevention and treatment of under-nutrition in pregnant women and young children, therapeutic feeding for people living with HIV/AIDS and supplemental feeding for and Vulnerable Children (VC). All nutrition activities are part of the FTF initiative. Through FTF, the USG supports investments in agricultural productivity, reduced trade and transportation barriers, market-based agriculture, increased participation of the very-poor in rural growth, climate change adaptation, improved nutrition, and increased effectiveness of humanitarian assistance. FY10 investments for FTF are approximately $38 million.
Commodities and logistics play a critical role in each of the complex health programs and Presidential initiatives within the USAID/Uganda Mission portfolio. Weak supply chain for essential medicines and supplies is one of the biggest bottlenecks to improving the health and nutrition status of Ugandans. In 2009/10, seventy-nine percent of health facilities in Uganda experienced stockouts of essential medicines. A chronically weak health system, compounded by the challenges of corruption and accountability in the management of drugs makes commodities, logistics, and supply chain one of the most challenging areas of USAID’s development assistance. It is also one of the top priorities of all Health Development Partners collectively in Uganda. Given the importance of adequate commodities and a functioning supply chain to the overall health system, this remains one of the most critical areas of USAID support in Uganda, requiring advanced technical skills, political and diplomatic tact, and innovative problem-solving in partnership with a wide variety of stakeholders.
All Mission activities are organized under USAID/Uganda’s Country Development Cooperation Strategy (CDCS) for 2010-2015, with the following overall goal: Uganda’s transition to a modern and prosperous country accelerated. Specific objectives related to commodities, logistics, and supply chain will be realized through a focus on Development Objective 3: Improved health and nutrition status in focus areas and population groups. A focus on decentralization, targeting districts and key populations, and working multisectorally are all key features of the CDCS. The CDCS aligns with Uganda’s National Development Plan goals and objectives.
B. BASIC FUNCTION:
The Senior Supply Chain Systems Advisor (SSCSA) is an essential and indispensable senior leader of SO8, GHI, PEPFAR, PMI, and the FTF efforts, providing strategic, technical and program expertise to the Health and HIV/AIDS Teams under SO8, technical guidance in the U.S. Mission’s interagency health efforts under GHI, and nutrition efforts within FTF. This requires highly specialized skills, knowledge and experience related to commodities, logistics, and supply chain systems (CLSC). This position is critical to the success of nearly $300 million in U.S. Government health assistance to Uganda through PEPFAR, USAID, CDC and other USG programs operating in the health sector of Uganda. Drug supply and distribution are lynchpins to the success of nearly every USG funded activity in the health sector and are a critical building block of the health system in Uganda.
The primary responsibilities focus on priority setting within a highly political environment, project management and senior-level technical advice on CLSC to members of the SO8 team, the FtF and GHI initiatives including the interagency PEPFAR and PMI programs. This position requires extensive high-level contacts within the U.S. community in both Uganda and Washington D.C. on commodity issues. The incumbent works with all USG agencies and all USAID implementing partners, managing a cross cutting contract for assistance to the national drug supply and distribution program that has direct impact on the service delivery accomplishments of U.S.G. supported programs in Uganda. As such, the incumbent advises all U.S.G. Agency heads on matters of drug supply and distribution, and provides U.S.G. inter face with senior officials in the Ministry of Health to resolve issues and ensure efficiencies in the national drug supply system. Specific contacts include: the Mission Director and Deputy Director; the U.S. Ambassador, Deputy Chief of Mission; the Global Health Bureau in Washington; the US Mission in Kampala’s Interagency Health Team; the Pharmacy Division Manager of the Ministry of Health; the General Managers of National Medical Stores (NMS) and Joint Medical Stores (JMS); the National Drug Authority (NDA); Chiefs of Party and other technical staff of implementing partners; other Health Development Partners (HDP); and Civil Society.
The SSCSA serves as Mission point of contact for all matters related to health CLSC. S/he works to ensure technical and programmatic synergy within USAID/Uganda, USG interagency health CLSC activities, and those of Government of Uganda (GoU) and other development partners and stakeholders by facilitating the exchange of technical information, guiding and managing USAID CLSC programs, and identifying and fostering opportunities for partnership on technical and programmatic activities. The SSCSA is responsible for working within a traditionally weak sector to foster GoU ownership on issues related to essential medicines, supplies, and logistics issues, all of which have routinely fallen short of stated goals and commitments sector strategy and implementation plans, despite their critical nature. The SSCSA represents USAID in national-level technical, programmatic, and policy meetings, and in consultations with other donors, government officials, and implementing partners. S/he also participates in USG interagency coordination meetings as related to various health and multisectoral initiatives. The SSCSA works on integrating a common approach to CLSC across all initiatives, such as common approaches to quantification, forecasting, warehousing, distribution, information management, district capacity-building, and commodity procurement. The SSCSA keeps abreast of current publications and information on CLSC and its programming in developing countries in order to advise the Mission.
The SSCSA functions as part of a larger Health Systems Strengthening (HSS) team to ensure more sustainable health programming, beyond CLSC. S/he will work with the members of the HSS team and PEPFAR HSS Technical working group and other relevant forums in planning and improving the USAID and USG portfolio on health systems strengthening (HSS) related projects and activities in the public and private health sector of Uganda, notably the expansion of USAID support to the private sector, both not for profit and for profit, in strengthening their institutions for sustainability. S/he will function as the focal point on HSS related issues when required.
The SSCSA will work closely with USAID/Uganda CLSC implementing partners (and other USAID and USG partners as appropriate), providing technical assistance and other support to ensure the uninterrupted supply of essential health medicines and supplies. The SSCSA will work with the Ministry of Health (MOH), the private sector, civil society and other stakeholders including coordination with multilateral and bilateral donors to improve the functions of forecasting, procurement planning and inventory control, financing, distribution and customer service in relation to CLSC.
The SSCSA requires a positive and proactive attitude. Leadership and diplomacy skills are critical, as the SSCSA will work with a variety of multisectoral and multiagency teams. The SSCSA will be a member of a multi-disciplinary, 35-person team implementing USAID programs under the SO8 team for Health, HIV/AIDS and Education. The SAC will serve as a senior member of the HSS Unit within SO8, and will report to the Deputy Health Team Leader for HSS. While the incumbent will report to the Deputy for HSS, S/he is expected to work closely and collaboratively with all of SO8, with the PEPFAR and PMI interagency teams, with the FtF and GHI teams, and with other USAID/Uganda and interagency USG/Uganda staff and programs. The SAC will be expected to complete assigned duties with little direct supervision, exercising extensive independent judgment as he or she works extensively through diverse teams.
Given the critical, yet politically sensitive nature of work in CLSC, the SSCSA will also provide senior strategic and technical leadership to advise the U.S. Ambassador and USAID Mission Director related to engagement in Uganda with CLSC issues. This advice and engagement with U.S. Mission leadership will be essential during the development of the PEPFAR Partnership Framework and establishing partnerships under the GHI framework and will involve strong relationship-building skills with various stakeholders including the MOH, the NMS, JMS, and other development partners. The SSCSA’s diplomacy and negotiation skills will be essential during U.S negotiation and development of plans with the GoU and the MOH to increase GoU ownership and leadership in CLSC.
C. SPECIFIC DUTIES:
TECHNICAL GUIDANCE, LEADERSHIP, AND ADVOCACY IN HEALTH COMMODITY, LOGISTICS AND SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT AND HEALTH SYSTEMS (40%)
The SSCSA serves as principal advisor for all matters related to health CLSC, providing strategic leadership in identifying and applying innovative approaches and best practices to achieve USAID, USG, GoU CLSC and broader health systems goals. Specific duties include:
1. Serving as principal advisor to SO-8 leadership, Mission Director and Deputy Mission Director on all issues related to drug policy, drug supply and distribution assistance. As such, also provides advice and counsel to other USG agencies in the health sector on drug supply and distribution issues.
2. Representing USAID/Uganda and its CLSC program with the GOU as it relates to health, nutrition and HIV/AIDS programs. This includes representing USAID in technical and coordination meetings with the GOU, other donors and non-government and private sector organizations on issues related CLSC including the MOH Medicines and Supplies Working Group.
3. Providing technical assistance to the MOH and other GOU and USAID/USG implementing partners involved in CLSC, in order to strengthen procurement planning and management, forecasting, distribution and storage of drugs and other commodity requirements at the national, district, and facility level. This includes technical advice and guidance on logistics information management, forecasting and procurement planning capacities. Regular partners include USAID implementing partners, the MOH Pharmacy Division, National Medical Stores (NMS), Joint Medical Stores (JMS), National Drug Authority (NDA), and others as applicable. The SAC will advise other SO8 team members concerning logistics management within their respective activities. S/he will provide technical guidance on the planning and mobilization of resources for the commodities procured under various global alliances, including the Global Fund for AIDS, TB and Malaria (GFATM), Global Alliance for Immunization and Vaccines (GAVI), and the Global Alliance for Improving Nutrition (GAIN).
4. Managing and coordinating the forecasting, quantification, and procurement of USAID (and as appropriate assisting with U.S. Government and national) commodities including contraceptives, Anti-Retrovirals, HIV test kits, TB drugs, Malaria drugs, malaria rapid diagnostic tests, long-lasting insecticide treated bednets, essential medicines, Vitamin A, other essential medicines, laboratory supplies, and other medical equipment.
5. Planning and improving the USAID and USG portfolio on health systems strengthening (HSS) related projects and activities in the public and private health sector of Uganda, notably in the potential expansion of USAID support to the private sector, both not for profit and for profit, in strengthening the private sector health services for improved access and long-term sustainability.
6. Serving as member of the HSS team and PEPFAR HSS Technical working group and other relevant forums in planning and improving the USAID and USG portfolio on health systems strengthening related projects and activities in the public and private health sector of Uganda, notably the expansion of USAID support to the private sector, both not for profit and for profit, in strengthening their institutions for sustainability. S/he will function as the focal point on HSS related issues when required.
7. Providing technical and management contributions to USG thematic groups, program designs, budget allocations, strategic planning documents, and reporting mechanisms. Thematic groups include interagency working groups under GHI and FtF including PEPFAR and PMI working groups as applicable. Program design work includes technical review committees for new and/or follow-on CLSC and other related awards. Budget allocations and strategic planning documents include Mission Strategies, strategic planning and budgeting under GHI, FtF, PEPFAR, and PMI, as well as coordinated planning documents among the GOU and development partners. Reporting mechanisms include U.S. Congressional, GOU or donor group requests; technical briefings; trip reports; site visit briefing documents; speeches; portfolio reviews; semi-annual and annual reports; quarterly financial reports; quality assessments; site monitoring reports; etc.
8. Keeping informed of national and international initiatives and policies and state-of-the-art developments related to CLSC, share information as appropriate with various counterparts.
PROGRAM MANAGEMENT (35%)
The SSCSA is responsible for the managing a complex portfolio of CLSC including the direct management of several programs and serving as principal advisor on numerous others. Drug supply and distribution are lynchpins to the success of nearly every USG funded activity (over $300M) in the health sector. This includes planning, implementation, management, monitoring, results reporting, advocacy and performance improvement of USAID’s CLSC activities, coordinating these activities as needed with other USG implementing health programs. Specific duties include:
1. Serving as principal advisor all SO8 health partners on drug supply and distribution issues. Develops and coordinates Mission drug supply and distribution policy among approximately 50 implementing partners. Advise on drug supply and distribution policy across the USG $300M health programs. Develops and coordinates drug and supply chain Mission policy as a component of the USG’s health systems approach to development, applying approaches to drug supply and distribution that are consistent with a health systems approach.
2. Serving as Agreement Officer’s Technical Representative (AOTR), Contracting Officer’s Technical Representative (COTR), or activity manager for programs related to CLSC, including USAID/Uganda’s unique bilateral supply chain technical assistance program. USAID implementing partners include USAID/Uganda’s bilateral technical assistance program in supply chain strengthening in the public and private sectors, and several other programs that manage the procurement of a wide variety of health commodities). S/he will also provide provides significant technical assistance on commodity projects including various CLSC aspects across the Mission, PEPFAR, PMI, GHI and FtF. As COTR/AOTR, or activity manager the SAC will: ensure suitable monitoring and reporting systems are in place, providing technical input in the development of Performance Monitoring Plans (PMPs); review, approve, and ensure compliance with Implementing Partner annual work plans and budgets; conduct regular site visits to monitor activities and verify asset use; guide implementing partners to adhere to USAID and USG policies and procedures; review all written reports submitted by Implementing Partners and furnish feedback; maintain program files, and other duties and responsibilities as outlined in USAID rules, regulations, policies and other forms of appropriate guidance.
3. Guiding and overseeing USAID procurement and distribution of approximately $25 million in health supplies and commodities annually. Commodities procured and distributed under these activities include contraceptives, condoms, Anti-Retrovirals (ARV), HIV test kits, TB and anti-malaria drugs, micronutrients (Vitamin A, iron, folate), laboratory reagent and supplies, vaccine supplies and equipment, and other commodities required for the implementation of HIV/AIDS and health programs. This includes assisting with commodity demand forecasting, and ensuring that all procurement activities are implemented in compliance with relevant USAID, USG, PEPFAR and PMI guidelines, policies, regulations and procedures.
MULTI-AGENCY COORDINATION AND STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS IN CLSC AND HEALTH SYSTEMS (20%)
The SSCSA is the USAID focal point for coordination with various entities of the GOU, other donors, the private sector, and civil society on matters relating to CLSC. S/he works to ensure technical and programmatic synergy within USAID/Uganda, USG interagency health CLSC activities, and those of GoU and other development partners and stakeholders. S/he develops strategic partnerships with other donors on coordinated approaches to complex health systems strengthening programs aimed to improve the functioning of the public and private health sector in Uganda, many of which include elements of CLSC. Specific duties include:
1. Representing USAID on all matters of drug supply and distribution with senior level officials in the Ministry of Health and among senior donor community representatives. This includes MOH, NMS, JMS, NDA, the Uganda Health Marketing Group (UHMG), Ministry of Finance Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED).
2. Coordinating commodity procurement and other CLSC support with other donor agencies. This requires close collaboration with high-level representatives of other donor agencies in order to manage technical, political, and diplomatic effects of a coordinated donor response to CLSC with the SAC will specifically focus efforts on The Global Fund, which has disbursed over $250M to Uganda for health activities in recent years, DFID, who is planning over $50M of health activities in coming years, and UNFPA, which provides essential support to reproductive health and family planning programs. Other contacts for close collaboration include the Uganda Family Planning Consortium as well as other appropriate local public sector and non-governmental entities such as GAVI, GAIN, Clinton Foundation and others. S/he will also monitor the political environment and other donor activities to inform USAID/Uganda’s funding and programmatic decisions.
3. Providing USAID leadership in fostering strategic partnerships among donors including GFTAM, the World Bank, UNFPA, DFID, and others to ensure timely and consistent supply of essential medicines across a variety of supply chain systems in both the public and private sector. These partnerships have the potential to leverage tens of millions of USD for health systems and CLSC programs in Uganda in order for USAID investments to have greater impact on public and private health systems in Uganda. This includes collaboration on joint programming with DFID as part of the Global Alliance for Reproductive, Maternal, and Newborn, Health.
4. Providing leadership in developing relationships with the private sector in Uganda, notably the expansion of USAID support to the private sector, both not for profit and for profit, in strengthening their institutions for sustainability.
5. Serving as USAID/Uganda’s representative on the MOH Medicines and Supplies Working Group and other centralized working groups relevant to CLSC, and representing USAID with multi-lateral donor coordination organizations and in defining the donor technical, policy and program agenda with the MOH and other Ministries.
6. Leading coordination efforts between USAID’s CLSC implementing partners; facilitate coordination with other USG CLSC implementing partners.
OTHER (5%)
The SSCSA is responsible for other duties related to CLSC and Mission priorities as assigned, including:
1. Organizing and participating in field visits by external parties that highlight USAID’s CLSC activities.
2. Making recommendations to the Mission on program directions and management.
D. POSITION ELEMENTS:
Supervision Received: Works under the general supervision of the Deputy Health Team Leader for HSS and collaboratively with other members of the Health, HIV/AIDS, GHI, PEPFAR, PMI, and FtF teams and working groups. Assignments are primarily in terms of program objectives and desired results. Accomplishments are evaluated for conformance with policy and accomplishment of USAID/Uganda objectives and individual work objectives through periodic and annual evaluations.
Available Guidelines: Host-country laws, USAID Handbooks, and the ADSs on project implementation, commodity procurement, contracting, and policy, and other regulations. Handbook guidance is supplemented by Mission Orders governing policy, procedure, and regulation, the mission organization chart, and position description.
Post Entry Training: On-the-job training will be provided relating to USAID-specific procedures, regulations, and methods; and CLSC policies, procedures, and regulations, including the Automated Directives System (ADS), Mission Orders, and all planning and reporting databases. Formal C/AOTR certification courses will be provided, and program/project management and other appropriate training courses will be offered, subject to course offerings and the availability of funds. The contractor shall annually complete OGE 450, Financial Disclosure Report. The contractor shall attend mandatory annual Ethics training conducted at USAID/Uganda by the Regional Legal Advisor.
Exercise of Judgment: Substantial judgment (discretion) is used daily in giving technical guidance to USG, USAID, and GoU colleagues, to Implementing Partners (IPs), and in representing USAID in multiple-stakeholder fora. Management decisions over certain IPs are at the discretion of the SAC. Substantial judgment is required in analyzing and determining whether or not to recommend approval of proposed programs/projects, in choosing among alternative proposals, and in evaluating data for reliability.
Authority to Make Commitments: Contractor shall not make any unauthorized commitments for the USG. However, the incumbent exercises the authority given to activity managers and C/AOTRs, and may make administrative arrangements consistent with ADS guidance and Mission policy. The incumbent takes action and establishes priorities based on available guidelines and professional judgment. Guidance is sought when needed, and the supervisor informed of activity and project status. Within the scope of the authority delegated, the incumbent may indicate to ranking counterpart and IP officials that they will make a recommendation to USAID on a specific activity issue or problem. The incumbent may negotiate ad referendum for the immediate supervisor.
Nature, Level, and Purpose of Contacts: Must be able to develop and maintain contacts with all levels of staff in the Mission, including senior leadership. The SAC shall provide consistent, credible and diplomatic representation of USAID to high level GOU, donor, and other partner contacts for technical, policy and program management issues related to commodity security and logistics management. Maintain an extensive range of mid-to senior-level contacts in government, donor, and private-sector circles for purposes of project implementation, obtaining and interpreting information relevant to program activities, providing guidance and procedures and discussing submitted proposals. Primary contacts are at the MOH, NMS, JMS, NDA, other development partners, civil society, and the private sector. Represent USAID in international and national technical fora, with multiple stakeholders.
Supervision Exercised: Continuing supervision of other Mission staff is not immediately expected, but may be necessary in the future of one local engaged staff focused on commodity and supply chain.
E. QUALIFICATION AND EVALUATION CRITERIA
USAID/Uganda expects to award a two year personal services contract. The successful applicant must be capable of securing a U.S. Government "Employment Authorization" security clearance. S/he must be able to secure a medical clearance.
Applicants meeting the required qualifications for the position will be evaluated based on information presented in the application and obtained through reference checks. USAID reserves the right to conduct telephonic interviews with the most highly ranked applicants and make the interview a deciding factor in selection.
Education (10 points):
Candidate must have a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as, public health, international development, logistics and supply chain management, or a closely related degree.
Prior Work Experience (25 Points):
A minimum 10 years of progressively responsible professional experience working in the health or international development field in Uganda or a similar developing country setting;
Five years of this experience should be in direct management of activities in health or development; including designing, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating activities in the delivery of CLSC programs;
Relevant experience working or collaborating with other donors, governments and international organizations is a must.
Knowledge – all required (35 Points):
State-of-the art, specialized knowledge of technical and programmatic approaches in CLSC is required, including all aspects of CLSC and its role in health sector programming. Demonstrated knowledge of CLSC as it relates to and interacts with health systems strengthening approaches comprehensively is required. This includes demonstrated knowledge of quantification, forecasting, warehousing, distribution, information management, district capacity-building, and commodity procurement practice;
Significant knowledge of program management strategies, and monitoring and evaluation methods;
A thorough knowledge of the concepts, principles, techniques, and practices of Uganda’s health policies and programs;
A thorough knowledge of Uganda’s economic, political, social, and cultural characteristics, and the history of development assistance, in particular as it relates to health programs in Uganda, including current trends and directions;
Knowledge of global commodity and procurement programs including the GFTAM, GAVI, and others.
Skills and Abilities – all required (30 Points):
Must be able to work effectively with mid- and senior-level public and civil society officials from the GoU, other development partners, and the private sector;
Demonstrated ability to work and provide leadership in a team environment, coordinate well with others, and provide leadership in the areas of his/her competencies;
Must be able to develop effective and collaborative managerial relationships with implementing partners;
Excellent writing and computer skills, in order to develop presentations, reports;
Diplomacy, tact, negotiation skills, cultural sensitivity, and team participation skills are required, in order to establish and maintain effective working relationships within USAID, and with the public and private sectors;
Excellent organizational skills in order to multi-task and stay organized in a complex, frequently changing environment;
Demonstrated advanced analytical skills and problem solving, as well as the ability to effectively manage stress and conflict;
Demonstrated ability in strategic thinking and decision-making as well as technical analysis, is required.
11. NOTICE TO APPLICANTS:
The most qualified candidates may be interviewed. Professional references and academic credential will be evaluated for applicants being considered for selection. USAID reserves the right to obtain from previous employers relevant information concerning the applicant’s past performance and may consider such information in its evaluation. USAID/Uganda shall not pay for any expenses associated with the interviews.
12. TERMS OF APPOINTMENT AND COMPENSATION:
Subject to availability of funds, this will be a two year contract. This position has been classified at a U. S. Government GS-14. The actual salary of the successful candidate will be negotiated within the range depending on qualifications and previous earning history.
This solicitation is for a U.S citizen and Resident Aliens offshore, local hire American or Alien nationals (resident in Uganda) or TCNs. Benefits and allowances will be paid in accordance with the policies and procedures set out in USAID Acquisition Regulation (AIDAR) Appendix D or J depending on whether the successful candidate is a US citizen (offshore), TCN (offshore), or local hire U.S. Citizen (resident hire) found at http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/aidar/pdf: These are summarized below:
A. OFFSHORE AMERICAN AND RESIDENT ALIEN BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES:
(1) Benefits:
1. Employee’s F.I.C.A. & MEDICARE contributions
2. Contribution toward Health & Life Insurance
-- 72% of Health Insurance Annual Premium (not to exceed $7,266 for contractor only and $20,339 for contractor with family)
-- 50 % of Life Insurance Annual Premium (not to exceed $500)
3. Pay Comparability Adjustment
--Annual across the board salary increase for USG employees and USPSCs
4. Annual Step Increase except if at the top step of the grade
5. Eligibility for Worker's Compensation
6. Annual & Sick Leave
(2) Allowances (if applicable)*
A. Temporary Lodging Allowance (Section 120)
B. Living Quarters Allowance (Section 130)
C. Post Allowance (Section 220)
D. Supplemental Post Allowance (Section 230)
E. Separate Maintenance Allowance (Section 260)
F. Education Allowance (Section 270)
G. Education Travel (Section 280)
H. Post Differential (Chapter 500)
I. Payments during Evacuation/Authorized Departure (Section 600)
J. Danger Pay (Section 650)
B. LOCAL HIRE AMERICAN OR RESIDENT ALIEN BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES:
1. Employee’s F.I.C.A. & MEDICARE contributions
2. Contribution toward Health & Life Insurance
-- 72% of Health Insurance Annual Premium (not to exceed $7,266 for contractor only)
-- 50 % of Life Insurance Annual Premium (not to exceed $500)
3. Pay Comparability Adjustment
--Annual across the board salary increase for USG employees and USPSCs
4. Annual Step Increase except if at the top step of the grade
5. Eligibility for Worker's Compensation
6. Annual & Sick Leave
Federal Taxes: USPSCs are not exempt from payment of Federal Income taxes under the foreign earned income exclusion.
C. TCN BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES:
A TCN is normally authorized the following benefits and allowances in accordance with the AIDAR Appendix J:
1. Contribution toward Medical Insurance for up to 6 dependents.
2. Pay Adjustment based on changes in the Local Compensation Plan.
3. Annual Step Increase except if at the top step of the grade.
4. Annual & Sick Leave.
5. Retirement benefit.
NOTE: In exceptional cases (as supported and justified) and only with the prior approval of the Mission Director, an off-shore TCN may be granted the same or similar benefits accorded to an offshore USPSC.
ALL QUALIFIED APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED REGARDLESS OF AGE, RACE, COLOR, SEX, CREED, NATIONAL ORIGIN, LAWFUL POLITICAL AFFILIATION, NON-DISQUALIFYING HANDICAP, MARITAL STATUS, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, AFFILIATION WITH AN EMPLOYEE ORGANIZATION, OR OTHER NON-MERIT FACTOR.
Various Contract Information Bulletins (CIBs) and Acquisition and Assistance Policy Directives (AAPDs) pertaining to PSCs are available at: http://www.usaid.gov/business/business_opportunities/cib/
CIBs and AAPDs contain changes to USAID policy and General Provisions in USAID regulations and contracts. Please refer to the website to determine which CIBs and AAPDs apply to this contract. Additionally, AIDAR Appendixes D and J also apply to PSCs, which can be found at: http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/aidar.pdf
D. SECURITY AND MEDICAL CLEARANCES:
The successful candidate will not be able to travel nor commence work until:
An employment authorization security clearance is obtained. For U.S. citizens and U.S. Resident Aliens, this would be handled by AID/Security in Washington DC. For TCNs the U.S. Embassy in Kampala will conduct the investigation upon submission of the required documentation.
A medical clearance is obtained. For offshore U.S. citizens and U.S. Resident Aliens, this would entail clearance from the Department of State Medical Services. For resident U.S. Citizens, U.S. Resident Aliens and TCN, this would be from his/her physician/medical doctor of medicine.
NOTE: If a temporary security clearance and medical clearance are not obtained within 4 months, the offer may be rescinded.
List of Required Forms:
(A) Optional Form 612
Note: The forms listed below B through G shall only be completed upon the advice of the Contracting Officer that an applicant is the successful candidate for the job.
(B) Contractor Physical Examination (DS Form 1843)
(C) EQIP Questionnaire for Sensitive Positions (for National Security (SF-86) or
(D) EQIP Questionnaire for Non-Sensitive Positions (SF-85)
(E) EQIP Signature Forms (3-CER, REL, MEL)
(F) Finger print Card (SF-87) (available from requirements office)
(G) AID 6-85 (Foreign Residence Data)
13. INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLICANTS:
HOW TO APPLY
Qualified individuals MUST submit:
A. Completed and hand-signed U.S. Government Optional Form 612 available websites Shortcut to: http://www.opm.gov/forms/pdf_fill/of612.pdf;
B. Curriculum vitae/resume specifically addressing each selection criterion as outlined in the solicitation;
C. Three (3) to five (5) references with current contact information.
To ensure applications are received in the Executive Office before the closing date, applications shall be submitted preferably by email. Additionally, fax, handcarry, DHL or FEDEX air courier are acceptable.
VIA EMAIL: To gnakaddu@usaid.gov copy to gmuntu@usaid.gov
VIA FAX: To Fax Number: 256-414-306-661
(VIA HANDCARRY/INTERNATIONAL COURIER)
Executive Officer
USAID/Uganda
US Embassy Compound – South Wing
Plot 1577 Ggaba Road
P. O. Box 7856, Kampala, Uganda
CLOSING DATE: Applications must be in the USAID/Uganda Executive Office no later than 4:45 p.m. Ugandan time Friday, June 27, 2011.
NOTE REGARDING GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS FOR THIS SOLICITATION
This solicitation in no way obligates USAID to award a PSC contract, nor does it commit USAID to pay any cost incurred in the preparation and submission of the application.
Filling this position is contingent upon availability of funding and completion of final internal administrative approvals.