Program Manager – Syria – Syrian Arab Republic

The MENTOR Initiative is a discreet and agile humanitarian organization established specifically to alleviate human suffering from tropical diseases. We operate in some of the world’s most destitute and vulnerable communities, often devastated and forgotten. Regardless of race, creed or nationality, MENTOR strives to bring disease control to populations at greatest risk of suffering and death. Our first and last considerations are the needs of the people we serve.

MENTOR is seeking a highly motivated, enthusiastic and skilled individual to drive the successful market introduction and scale-up of innovative insect repellent products within vector-borne disease affected populations in northwest Syria, transitioning from a humanitarian distribution model to a sustainable market-driven approach. This role will build on previous research and pilot initiatives to increase product uptake, evaluate product performance, and develop effective go-to-market strategies to ensure long-term community access and use.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive market entry strategy for spatial insect repellents targeting households and public institutions.
• Identify and establish partnerships with key stakeholders including retailers, distributors, humanitarian/development sectors and relevant authorities.
• Co-developer and implementer of marketing and promotional activities to increase product awareness and demand.
• Monitor and analyze market trends and customer and consumer feedback to inform strategic decisions.
• Manage the relationship with marketing agencies.
• Oversee the monitoring and evaluation of the effectiveness of the programme and its impact on reducing VBD cases and improving health outcomes in the community.
• Oversee the implementation of the product/market communications plan, including monitoring the quality and effectiveness of communications products.
• Prepare regular reports on program progress, performance and challenges for internal and external stakeholders.
• Prepare a final report summarizing the program’s achievements and challenges and highlighting strategic directions for local market involvement in health care in the NWS, particularly for spatial defenses.

Essential qualifications and experience
• University degree in development studies, international relations, global health,
Business management or other related fields.
• Demonstrable experience in program management, with a track record of successful
product launches, private sector integration and cost recovery strategies.
• Extensive knowledge of private sector regulations in NWS.
• Knowledge of the retail landscape. Insight into different retail formats, their customer
basis and their specific needs.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute retail market entry strategies
sector.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• The ability to work effectively under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Experience in the healthcare or consumer goods industry is a plus.
• Active bank account (PTT only)

Desired skills and experience
• Knowledge of the vector control or insecticide market and consumer behaviour.
• Good understanding of global health programs and vector-borne diseases in NWS.
• Experience in conducting market research and data analysis.
• Strong understanding of social marketing principles.
• Experience working with NGOs and international development organizations.
• Professional communication skills in Arabic and English.
• Previous experience in preparing progress and data-based reports.
• Professional approach to time, communication and deadlines.
• Female candidates are strongly recommended.