Director, Consortium of Medical Schools–Africa (COMS-A) at University of Global Health Equity | Deadline: 22 October 2025
Director, Consortium of Medical Schools–Africa (COMS-A) at University of Global Health Equity | Deadline: 22 October 2025
The University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) in Kigali, Rwanda, is inviting applications for the position of Director, Consortium of Medical Schools–Africa (COMS-A). This is a full-time position with an initial two-year contract, renewable based on performance and funding. The role is based at the COMS-A Secretariat, hosted by UGHE in Kigali.
About COMS-A
The Consortium of Medical Schools–Africa (COMS-A) is a continent-wide initiative launched in March 2025 during the MedEd25 Conference in Kigali. COMS-A brings together more than 115 medical schools from 34 African countries, providing a unified platform to strengthen medical education, harmonize curricula, foster collaboration, support research, and influence policy at both continental and global levels. COMS-A is an African-led initiative that seeks to transform medical education and research across the continent.
Position Summary
The Director of COMS-A will serve as the chief executive of the Consortium, leading the Secretariat, implementing the organization’s vision, and managing strategic partnerships. The Director will oversee operations, programs, and partnerships, acting as the primary ambassador, advocate, and fundraiser. This is a highly strategic leadership role requiring experience in academic management, global health, and large-scale organizational leadership.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Strategy
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Provide overall strategic direction and leadership for COMS-A, ensuring alignment with its vision, mission, and core values.
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Design, implement, and monitor COMS-A’s strategic plan and annual work plans.
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Represent COMS-A externally, engaging with governments, donors, multilateral organizations, universities, and global partners.
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Build a continental understanding of contextual and regional realities to support membership growth.
Organizational Management
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Establish and manage a high-performing Secretariat team.
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Ensure effective governance through support to the Executive and Standing Committees.
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Develop and implement policies, systems, and procedures that enhance organizational efficiency, transparency, and accountability.
Program Oversight
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Oversee key initiatives including:
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Faculty Development Academy and Higher Education Leadership Academy
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MedEd Africa Annual Conference
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Curriculum harmonization and accreditation initiatives with WHO AFRO and regional bodies
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Research, innovation, and digital platforms
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Gender equity initiatives such as Women in Medical Education Leadership Forum and mentorship programs
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Monitor program performance, evaluate outcomes, and ensure continuous improvement.
Fundraising & Resource Mobilization
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Lead fundraising activities to secure sustainable funding from governments, foundations, bilateral and multilateral partners, and the private sector.
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Cultivate strong relationships with donors and partners, ensuring alignment with COMS-A’s strategic priorities.
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Manage grants and financial resources, ensuring compliance with donor requirements.
Advocacy & Partnerships
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Position COMS-A as the leading voice for African medical schools in continental and global forums.
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Build and sustain partnerships with regional and international associations.
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Promote COMS-A’s role in policy dialogue, advocacy, and academic leadership.
Qualifications
Education
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MD, MBBS, or equivalent is mandatory.
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PhD is an advantage; Master’s degree (MSc/MPH/MEd or equivalent) required.
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Background in health professions education, clinical medicine, global health, or public health.
Experience
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At least 8–10 years of senior leadership experience in academia, medical education, or global health.
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Proven success in leading organizations or large-scale initiatives across multiple countries.
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Strong track record in fundraising, grant management, and donor engagement.
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Experience managing diverse teams and working across cultures.
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Familiarity with African health systems, medical education, and global health policy.
Skills & Competencies
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Visionary leadership, diplomacy, and negotiation skills.
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Strong organizational management and team-building capabilities.
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Excellent communication and advocacy skills.
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Financial acumen with experience overseeing multimillion-dollar budgets.
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Commitment to COMS-A’s values: Excellence, Equity, Collaboration, Integrity, Sustainability, and Social Accountability.
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Fluency in English required; proficiency in French or Portuguese is highly desirable.
Terms of Employment
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Full-time, preferably based in Kigali, Rwanda, with flexibility for virtual work and frequent travel.
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Initial two-year contract, renewable based on performance and funding.
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Competitive salary and benefits, commensurate with qualifications and experience.
How to Apply
Applicants should provide:
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Curriculum Vitae (CV)
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Degrees and academic certificates
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Cover letter outlining interest in UGHE and relevant experience
All documents should be uploaded under the ‘Additional Files’ tab on the application page. UGHE is an equal opportunity employer, considering all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or any legally protected status.
About UGHE
The University of Global Health Equity (UGHE), launched in Rwanda in 2015, focuses on training the next generation of global health leaders. The university emphasizes equity in healthcare, empowering students to drive systemic change while delivering high-quality care at the bedside. UGHE is an initiative of Partners In Health (PIH), a globally recognized non-profit committed to providing healthcare to the most marginalized communities.
UGHE upholds academic integrity, social justice, and intellectual curiosity, fostering a community dedicated to learning, ethical practice, and transformational leadership.
Safeguarding Commitment
UGHE is committed to protecting students, staff, contractors, and community members from sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment. Pre-employment checks and due diligence will be conducted in line with UGHE policies. Applicants are expected to understand and comply with these safeguarding procedures.
Deadline for Applications: 22 October 2025
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