Project Manager

The Aga Khan University (AKU) is seeking applications for a Project Manager position for the Kikohozi Classifier project, based in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. This full-time role is pivotal in ensuring the successful implementation of the project by overseeing daily operations, coordinating field data collection, and acting as the primary liaison between AKU and partner institutions. The Project Manager will ensure that project milestones are met within the defined scope, timeline, and budget.

Position Responsibilities

• Develop detailed protocols, work plans, timelines, and budgets aligned with project objectives and grant requirements.
• Translate the overall project strategy into clear, actionable implementation frameworks.
• Continuously update and adjust plans to address emerging priorities, risks, or challenges.
• Oversee administrative and logistical arrangements for project implementation, including fieldwork planning and staff coordination.
• Ensure adherence to institutional policies and donor compliance requirements.
• Support the recruitment, onboarding, and performance monitoring of project staff.
• Represent the project in stakeholder engagements, workshops, and donor meetings.
• Oversee data collection activities, proactively addressing operational challenges, risks, or delays.
• Facilitate regular project coordination meetings and maintain strong communication between technical teams, researchers, and administrative units.
• Supervise the data manager and research assistants, tracking deliverables to ensure milestones are achieved.
• Prepare progress reports, presentations, and documentation for internal stakeholders and the funder.
• Maintain effective communication with community stakeholders, research participants, and partner institutions.
• Support community sensitization efforts, ensuring culturally appropriate engagement in field activities.
• Participate in teaching, mentorship, and capacity building for project team members, AKU staff, and students, fostering skills in research design, implementation, and data management.
• Support knowledge transfer and professional growth to build long-term capacity for innovation and research excellence within the institution.
• Work closely with the principal investigator, finance, and administration teams to monitor budget utilization, expenditures, and financial reporting.
• Ensure accountability and transparency in the use of project resources.

Professional Skills, Qualifications, and Experience

• Minimum of 3-5 years of progressive experience in research, healthcare, or public health project management, including project coordination, budget development, financial monitoring, and compliance with donor frameworks (e.g., UKRI, MRC, or similar).
• Bachelor’s degree in medicine, healthcare administration, public health, social sciences, project management, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• Proven track record in planning, implementing, and monitoring large-scale, multi-partner projects, ideally within health, development, or donor-funded programs.
• Training or certification in Research Ethics, Data Governance, or Monitoring & Evaluation is desirable.
• Training or knowledge of AI applications in healthcare and infection prevention is an added advantage.
• Strong digital literacy, including proficiency with data visualization and reporting tools.
• Strong background in communication and stakeholder engagement, with the ability to prepare donor reports, policy briefs, and presentations.
• Proven problem-solving and adaptability skills in dynamic project environments, including risk management and mitigation strategies.

How to Apply

If you meet the requirements for this position, please submit your application package, including an application letter and an updated CV, to hr.tanzania@aku.edu. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. For further information, visit http://www.aku.edu