Project: Safety and Antimicrobial Resistance of Mass Administration of Azithromycin (SARMAAN) project

Job Category: State Logistic Lead

Job Type: 18 months

Job Location: Kano

Language: English (proficiency in Hausa language is an advantage)

Introduction

Solina Center for International Development and Research is a management and healthcare consulting firm that works with businesses, governments, researchers, and development organizations to develop innovative solutions that address pressing healthcare challenges. We apply proven business and research methods to our health systems work to ensure sustainable impact and optimize population health outcomes. Our team of highly qualified and experienced professionals and deep knowledge of Nigeria’s health system as well as health systems in developing countries, are our unique assets that enable us to consistently deliver the highest quality of service to all clients and partners. Our work seeks to benefit primarily disadvantaged and under-served populations. We implement transformation programs in Nigeria and are currently expanding our footprint to several West and Central African countries. We are building a competent world-class management team to enable us to achieve our strategic growth objectives sustainably.

Description and Objectives

Solina is supporting the implementation of the mass administration of azithromycin through the Safety and Antimicrobial Resistance of Mass Administration of Azithromycin (SARMAAN) project. As part of this initiative, Solina is leading the implementation of MDA activities in Kano State to address child health challenges. The project aims to achieve high treatment coverage, improve community awareness, and ensure efficient program execution in collaboration with key stakeholders. The State Logistics Lead will manage the entire supply chain and logistics operations for the SARMAAN project in Kano State, ensuring alignment with project objectives and timelines.

Role Summary

The Logistics Lead will manage drug and other commodity quantification, procurement planning, inventory management, last-mile distribution, and reverse logistics for the SARMAAN campaign in Kano State. This role requires close collaboration with the State Program Lead, program managers, government stakeholders, project partners, and field teams to ensure efficient program supply chain and logistics management.

Technical Responsibilities

1. Oversee day-to-day supply chain operations for the SARMAAN campaign, ensuring seamless execution of drug and commodity distribution and logistics activities;
2. Lead the quantification, procurement planning, and inventory management processes to ensure the timely availability of drugs and other essential commodities for the MDA in Kano State;
3. Develop and implement strategies to address supply chain inefficiencies, ensuring the successful delivery of drugs and commodities to all target communities;
4. Coordinate with state-level stakeholders, including KNSPHCMB, to ensure smooth execution of MDA activities;
5. Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of supply chain interventions in ensuring the timely and adequate availability of drugs and commodities at the last mile;
6. Collaborate with development partners and stakeholders to optimize resource utilization and strengthen the supply chain for the MDA campaign;
7. Ensure that supply chain data is accurately collected, monitored, and reported in real-time, supporting evidence-based decision-making;
8. Provide daily updates to the State program Lead and Program manager on the status of supply chain activities, addressing any emerging issues promptly;
9. Oversee reverse logistics to ensure accountability in the return of used and unused drug bottles from the last mile back to the State Medical Store;
10. Perform other duties as assigned by the State Program Lead and/or Project Manager.

Qualifications & Experience

1. Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree (Master’s degree preferred) in the field of health management, public health or a related field; 
2. A minimum of 5 years of experience in healthcare management or public health, with a focus on PHC;
3. Proven experience in managing and leading logistics operations, including procurement, inventory management, and distribution processes;
4. Demonstrated experience in implementing large-scale health programs with a focus on ensuring timely delivery of health commodities to the last mile;
5. Strong knowledge of the healthcare landscape in Kano State, including local health systems, stakeholders, and logistical processes;
6. Familiarity with supply chain software, tools, and systems for data collection, reporting, and performance tracking;
7. Experience in training, capacity-building, and working with field teams and local stakeholders to implement best practices in logistics and supply chain management;
8. Previous experience in reverse logistics, including handling the return of unused and used commodities, ensuring accountability, and maintaining accurate records; 
9. Proven leadership and project management skills.

Competencies required

1. Proficient in supply chain management, including procurement, warehousing, and distribution;
2. Proficient in English and Hausa languages;
3. Strong stakeholder engagement and coordination with government, NGOs, and partners;
4. Skilled in data analysis, logistics tracking, and reporting;
5. Resourceful in solving supply chain challenges and adapting to changing realities;
6. Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize, and meet deadlines;
7. Excellent communication skills for clear reporting and coordination;
8. Strong teamwork and relationship management skills;
9. Proficient in logistics management software and Microsoft Excel.