Government Relations Advisor – Africa (Ethiopia)

About the role

The Government Relations Advisor for Africa will support Vital Strategies’ Lead Poisoning Prevention Program by building and maintaining high‑level relationships with government agencies and partners across multiple African countries. Based in Addis Ababa, the role will coordinate regional exchanges, align program activities with national priorities, and represent the organization at regional events.

Key responsibilities

• Facilitate and strengthen relationships with key government ministries, agencies and consortium partners in target African countries.
• Coordinate regional knowledge‑exchange meetings and strategy‑development workshops for the Lead Poisoning Prevention Program.
• Support country teams in government engagement, policy dialogue and partnership building.
• Provide updates on implementation progress and ensure alignment with global objectives and local priorities.
• Represent Vital Strategies at regional conferences, policy forums and stakeholder meetings.

Required profile

• Demonstrated experience working with government bodies or public‑sector partners in Africa.
• Strong understanding of public‑health policy processes, especially related to environmental health or lead exposure.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with ability to work across cultures.
• Proven ability to coordinate multi‑country initiatives and manage stakeholder relationships.

Required skills

• Fluency in English (additional local languages a plus).