Aga Khan Health Services (AKHS) is one of the most comprehensive private, not‐for‐profit health care systems in the developing world with community health programs in large geographical areas in Central and South Asia, as well as in East Africa.

The Aga Khan Health Services, Afghanistan (AKHS, A) was established in 2003 as part of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). AKHS, A provides health care services mainly on behalf of the government including the Ministry of Public Health’s of Afghanistan’s Basic Package of Health Services (BPHS) and Essential Package of Hospital Services (EPHS). AKHS, A is unique both in scale and scope, delivering critical health services along the continuum of care, from Community Health Workers (CHWs) to ISO certified hospital facilities.

AKHS, A is currently implementing healthcare services in Bamyan, Baghlan, Badakhshan, Kabul and Takhar provinces. The agency’s scope of work includes the provision of primary and secondary healthcare, preventive and curative medical care, Nursing and Midwifery education, Human Resources Development and Hospital Management. As BPHS and EPHS implementer, AKHS, A provides technical support as well as capacity building of health personnel, immunization services, nutrition trainings and the training of Community Health Nurses and Community Health Midwives.

AKHS, A draws on internal and other donor fundings to continue supplementary and complementary support to the national health system. Moreover, AKHS, A has introduced innovations, including, expansions of e-Health services, e-learning initiatives, and cross border arrangements. To promote healthy environment, AKHS, A is also implementing net zero and greenhouse gas emission initiatives.

Job Summary:

The Aga Khan Health Services, Afghanistan (AKHS,A) is seeking a dynamic and visionary Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to provide strategic leadership and oversee all aspects of its operations. The CEO will ensure the delivery of high-quality healthcare services, program development, financial sustainability, and compliance with legal and regulatory standards. This role requires fostering a collaborative work environment, managing donor relationships, and representing AKHS,A in national and international forums.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Leadership & Programme Management

• Develop, plan, organize, and take direct responsibility for the management of AKHS Afghanistan’s national health programmes, aligning with global strategies.
• Directly oversee the timely development and implementation of plans, including capital and operational budgets, to advance AKHS health strategies in Afghanistan.
• Establish organization-wide information and quality systems and implement high standards and best practices in healthcare provision and health system management.
• Establish effective monitoring and evaluation practices for health programmes, including impact measurement, and remain updated on trends and new technologies in measurement.
• Monitor patient satisfaction and ensure high levels of patient safety using international standards (e.g., Safe Care).
• Oversee major capital and developmental projects, ensuring completion per specifications, budgets, and timelines.
• Oversee maintenance and renewal of organizational assets.

2. Stakeholder Engagement & Representation

• Manage all donor relationships, ensuring AKHS Afghanistan’s interests and perspectives are well represented.
• Develop and implement a communication policy for all stakeholders including donors and government offices.
• Explore collaboration opportunities and cultivate relationships with government, healthcare communities, media, other AKDN institutions, donors, and partners.
• Act as spokesperson and represent AKHS Afghanistan in external and internal forums and meetings.

3. Organizational Excellence & Compliance

• Manage human resources, including leadership team development, to ensure the growth of the talent pipeline for key AKHS roles.
• Promote collaboration and coordination between staff, programmes, and administrative teams.
• Create a continuous improvement environment fostering collaboration between healthcare professionals, administrative staff, and the broader AKHS community.
• Environmental Sustainability: collaborate with the Global Head for Environmental Sustainability to implement a comprehensive climate strategy aligned with national and international best practices.
• Champion Safeguarding policies & practices to ensure a safe environment for staff, patients, and stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with the institutional policies, particularly the Code of Conduct and patient safety protocols.

4. Innovation & Governance

• Leverage technology and data to enhance healthcare delivery, patient satisfaction, and operational efficiency.
• Deliver timely operational reports to the line manager and keep them informed of all organizational developments.
• Report on performance metrics, risks, and strategic priorities to relevant stakeholders.

5. Additional Duties

• Perform any other tasks assigned by the line manager.

Academic/Professional Qualifications:

• MD or Master’s degree in health service Provision, Healthcare Management, Public Health, Nursing Management, or a related field.
• Extensive knowledge of healthcare administration, principles, and best practices.
• Demonstrated experience in implementing donor-funded programs and managing large-scale health initiatives.
• PMP certification (preferred but not mandatory).

Experience and Skills:

• 10+ years of senior leadership experience in healthcare or related sectors.
• Strong program management expertise with the ability to design, develop, and implement strategies.
• Proven stakeholder management skills, including diplomacy and government engagement.
• Financial and asset management proficiency, including budgeting and procurement.
• Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to navigate ambiguity, drive change, and foster innovation.
• Cultural sensitivity and commitment to inclusive, ethical leadership.
• Fluency in English (written and oral); knowledge of local languages is an asset.

Personal Attributes:

• Results-oriented with a deadline-driven approach.
• High integrity, intellectual humility, and resilience.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with initiative and motivation.
• Strong advocate for AKDN’s ethos and safeguarding principles.

Interested candidates are requested to submit their applications online through this {https://forms.gle/q2itc5R3J83G9ayf9 }.

Please note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Deadline for application: 15th May 2025

Please ensure your application includes a cover letter and CV.

AKHS is committed to reducing our impact on climate and the environment and have set ourselves the goal of striving for net-zero carbon operations by 2030. All staff are expected to take part in making this a reality. The Chief Executive Officer accompanied by his/her line manager is expected to identify and understand which aspects of his/her work have most impact on the environment, and define tasks, work, and personal goals within his/her work plan to reduce these impacts and bring AKHS closer to net zero and be guided by the AKHS Code of Conduct including the institutional safeguarding principles in all dealings.

AKHS, A strives to promote diversity as well as provide an equal employment opportunity to each candidate, regardless of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender, language, marital status, origin, political affiliation, religion, sex, or social status. Females are encouraged to apply.

AKHS, A enforces a zero-tolerance stance towards behaviors inconsistent with the goals of the AKDN and AKHS, A, encompassing sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority, and discrimination. The organization is committed to stringent child safeguarding principles. Successful candidates are required to align with these standards, undergoing thorough reference and background assessments, which involve validating academic credentials and employment history. Additional information may be requested for a comprehensive background check.

AKHS, A follows a transparent and fair recruitment process. Any follow up during the recruitment process by applicants can result in disqualification.