Development Media International (DMI) creates evidence-based behaviour change campaigns to improve health and save lives. We deliver at scale to maximise impact and cost-effectiveness. We are the first organisation to scientifically demonstrate that mass media can increase life-saving behaviours. In 2018 DMI published the results of its 5-year, £7m randomised controlled trial (RCT) in West Africa which showed that 56% more children were taken for treatment for malaria, 73% more for diarrhoea and 39% more for pneumonia following exposure to our campaign. Modelling indicates that over 3000 lives were saved during the campaign and that our approach is one of the most cost-effective ways of saving children’s lives. We have subsequently undertaken a second RCT which showed that the modern contraceptive prevalence rate was 20% higher in areas exposed to DMI’s messaging compared to areas that were not. 

Job Description 

DMI is looking for a suitable candidate to lead our Zambia Office. The Country Operations Manager will oversee all aspects of DMI’s operations in Zambia, including business development, partnerships, financial management, and human resources. This is a maternity cover position, initially until 31st March 2023.

The Country Operations Manager is responsible for growing DMI’s portfolio in Zambia by identifying and cultivating new partnerships and funding opportunities and overseeing the development of high-quality proposals. He or she will oversee the design and delivery of impactful programmes which achieve sustainable behaviour change in Zambia, working closely with external stakeholders such as the Ministry of Health or consortium partners. The post holder will also be responsible for ensuring stringent financial management in Zambia, including ensuring projects are delivered to budget and keeping high quality accurate financial records.  

This is primarily an operational position, suited to someone with experience in business development, operations management, and NGO leadership. The ideal candidate will be extremely driven, demonstrate an impressive ability to juggle multiple workstreams, and be skilled at leading under pressure. Previous experience in global health, media production or mass media will be an advantage but is not a pre-requisite for the role. 

More specifically, the Country Operations Manager will have the following responsibilities:  

• Business Development: Identify, scope, and pursue business development leads in Zambia, working in close coordination with the UK-based Development team. Develop concept notes, proposal narratives and budgets, and act as main point of contact for in-country donors.  
• Partnerships: Actively develop partnerships with external stakeholders such as INGOs, NGOs, CSOs, research organisations, broadcast partners, and government departments; build and maintain strong working relationships with consortium partners and project implementation partners; represent DMI externally. 

• Financial Management: Manage national level budgets in line with internal procedures, including financial reporting, maintaining accurate records of income and expenditure, forecasting future expenditure within budgetary constraints. Oversee procurement and contracting in line with internal policies.  
• HR: Manage DMI Zambia staff (currently two further positions) and interns to deliver impactful campaigns in line with DMI procedures; provide performance management of staff and support to professional development; recruit high calibre individuals into team vacancies; oversee onboarding and offboarding of staff.  
• Office Management: Oversee the day-to-day running of the DMI office, ensuring prompt payment of rent and utilities, and maintaining stock of office provisions. 
• Other tasks as required by DMI.