Head of North America Office

Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative•New York, NY

1d•$65,000 - $75,000

About The Position

The Global Executive Office plays a pivotal and strategic role in governance and internal alignment. The Department coordinates DNDi’s three continental regional office groupings and the Policy Advocacy team. Policy Advocacy is a key pillar in DNDi’s strategy and strives for scientific advancements to translate into real-world impact by shaping policies, regulatory frameworks, and funding priorities. About the Office DNDi established its North America office in 2007. Based in New York City, DNDi North America supports DNDi advocacy, communications, fundraising, and R&D efforts, operating under the direction of the DNDi North America Board of Directors. It plays a central role in delivering DNDi’s mission through its collaboration with key partners engaged in a wide variety of R&D and policy advocacy activities. Overview The Head of North America Office will represent the organization in the region, supporting strategic visibility, contributing to the annual planning process, liaising with the North American Board, and ensuring legal and regulatory compliance for the U.S. entity. This is a limited-scope leadership role focused on selective external representation, team and planning coordination, and governance support, not operational management. Head for the Drug for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) in North America, as well as Head of the 501(c) 3 organization, provides representation and accountability in the region.

Requirements

At least 12 years of progressively responsible experience in a related field with over 8 years in a senior role
Leadership/Management training is necessary.
Proven ability to work effectively in a team environment and matrix structure
Proven track record in external relations, operations, nonprofit governance, or strategic representation.
A relevant post-graduate degree if required by the function.
Expertise in managing high-impact functions or complex programs.
Strong leadership in program development and delivery, impacting regions or teams.
Ability to advise senior leaders on specialized topics.
Effective communication and representation at senior levels and strong stakeholder engagement skills
Familiarity with U.S. nonprofit legal frameworks (501(c)(3)).
Ability to work independently and collaboratively across time zones.
Fluency in English; additional languages (e.g., French or Spanish) are a plus.
Excellent knowledge of Microsoft Suite

Nice To Haves

Experience working in the public and private sector is highly desirable

Responsibilities

Represent the organization in North America with key stakeholders, including civil society, academic institutions, and philanthropic partners to strengthen institutional visibility and relationships, in coordination with DNDi global team (fundraising, communication, policy, R&D, BD). Representation will be shared with or delegated to other senior staff as appropriate.
Attend and contribute to selected conferences, forums, and events as agreed with leadership, with priority given to those most relevant to DNDi’s strategic visibility in North America. Representation will be shared with or delegated to other senior staff as appropriate.
Cultivate strategic relationships aligned with the organization’s mission and values.
Coordinate the annual North America Action Plan process, bringing together inputs from office staff and relevant global teams (including Communications, Fundraising, Advocacy, HR, and PMO). Ensure the plan reflects the full range of North America activities and is aligned with DNDi’s global strategy – while strategic priorities and fundraising targets remain the responsibility of the relevant global leads.
Share regional insights to inform global strategy and planning.
Act as a liaison to the North American Board, supporting its president and members.
Ensure timely communication and coordination between the Board and Global DNDi.
Support Board governance processes, including meeting preparation and documentation.
Serve as legal representative for the U.S.-based 501(c)(3) entity.
Ensure compliance with U.S. nonprofit regulations and reporting requirements.
Liaise with legal counsel and auditors as needed.
Convene regular team meetings and maintain a strong sense of team identity and collaboration.
Share regional insights to inform global strategy and planning.