The Makerere University-Johns Hopkins (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration | MU-JHU Care Limited, a Kampala–based equal opportunities Clinical Research and Service Delivery Organisation with more than 350 employees is seeking an interested, committed and reliable senior professional with the described qualifications to apply for the position of Director Strategic Planning and Partnerships in support of MU-JHU Care Ltd studies/programs to be implemented in Kampala, Uganda.
Job Title:Director Strategic Planning and Partnerships
Reports To: Executive Director
Job Location: MU-JHU Research House, Upper Mulago Hill Road, Kampala.
Description and purpose:
The successful person will be responsible for identifying and managing strategic partnerships within the health research, care and funder fields in Uganda and abroad, including managing the grants portfolio and serving as a lead liaison and advocate on behalf of MU-JHU with major funders and partners and ensuring regular and effective communications for a wide range of stakeholder communications.
Required qualifications and profile:
A Master’s degree in a relevant field such as Development, Public Health, Public Policy, Finance, Business or Public Administration. The candidate will demonstrate a minimum of seven years successful experience in strategic planning, grant solicitation, grant management and stakeholder relations in the clinical research and/or health care field in Uganda or a similar setting. General management and communications experience, including project and personnel management, is essential. The candidate should be a self-starter with exceptional communication skills, both written and oral, well-developed interpersonal skills and presence to interact at the most senior corporate, funder and academic levels, experience in strategic planning and in identifying and evaluating potential partner relationships with related organizations. Proven success in resource solicitation and management, funder cultivation and acknowledgement, skilled in general management, including personnel management, basic knowledge of clinical research with a focus on the improvement of the health and well-being of women and children. Knowledge of HIV, TB and vaccine preventable infectious diseases would be an advantage. High level ability to implement short- and long-term goals, ability to foster a cooperative work environment, sensitive to cultural issues and language differences, proficiency in computer systems are core skills. Advanced proficiency in use of Microsoft applications, desktop publishing and willing to travel and work irregular hours will be added advantages.
The holder of this position will work under the direct supervision of the Executive Director, and will be responsible for the following duties:
Strategic and Operational Planning and Development
Consult closely with the Executive Director and Core Management Team to identify areas for strategic program and related infrastructure (space, equipment, resources) expansion that are consistent with the goals and objectives of the organization.
Design, develop and implement short and long term resource development plans and strategies that make possible both the strengthening of the specific programs/components of MU-JHU core competencies (across Research, Program Services and related Capacity/System Strengthening) as well as expansion into approved strategic directions and niches.
Work closely with the MU-JHU Executive Director and Board in developing and reviewing high quality MU-JHU Strategic plans over 5 year cycles.
Working in support of the MU-JHU Executive Director, liaise with all stakeholders to ensure the interests of these major stakeholders are appropriately reflected in MU-JHU planning.
Regular communicate the elements of the Strategic Plan to the Division Directors/Senior Management and coordinate the annual operational planning and reporting cycle aligned to this Strategic Plan.
Analyse, prioritize and pursue funding opportunities among the potential funders that are consistent with the goals and objectives as defined in the Strategic Plan.
Identify and address critical knowledge and skill gaps in middle, senior and executive management staff related to strategic and operational planning processes.
Grants portfolio, partnership and communications leadership
Lead in the development and implementation of the Strategic Resource Generation component of the MU-JHU Strategic Plan.
Leads in the formation and implementation of policies regarding development and resource generation.
Serve as the Authorised Business Official and lead the MU-JHU grants administration office including supervision of the Grants Administration Manager and grants and contracts portfolio.
With MU-JHU Executive Director, prepares regular reports on development activities and status funder-defined projects underway.
Represents MU-JHU management at various community, funder, stakeholder and board meetings.
Ensure MU-JHU communications reflect MU-JHU’s strategic plan and promote visibility with MU-JHU’s diverse stakeholders including supervision of the Communications Specialist and communications portfolio.
Risk management
Work closely with the Board, Executive Director and Director of Administration and Finance to establish and resource effective risk management processes including internal controls and with appropriate separation of duties and accountability to the Board.
Applications with complete C.Vs, including 3 referees and their full addresses or contact Tel No.’s, copies of academic certificates and testimonials, should be sent by email to hr[at]mujhu.org or hand delivered to: MU-JHU Human Resource Manager, through the reception on first floor, MU-JHU 1 Building – not later than January 15, 2021 by 5.30pm. Only short-listed applicants will be contacted.
Makerere University has officially unveiled NCBA Bank Uganda as the platinum sponsor for the 2025 Makerere University Marathon (#MakRun2025), marking a significant milestone in the institution’s journey toward inclusive and sustainable student support. The partnership was formally announced during a colourful event held at the university, attended by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Dr. Maggie Kigozi, Chairperson of the Makerere University Endowment Fund, and NCBA Bank Uganda CEO, Mr. Mark Muyobo.
NCBA Bank Uganda’s UGX 1.45 billion sponsorship over the next five years is the largest corporate contribution to the Makerere Marathon to date. It underscores the bank’s commitment to supporting quality education, community development, and equity. Mr. Muyobo said that, “We are driven by the desire to leave every community better than we found it”. He added that the goal is to empower disadvantaged students to live without limitations, describing this initiative as a bold stride toward establishing a world-class international marathon.
Left to Right: Mr. Mark Muyobo, Dr. Maggie Kigozi and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe pose for a photo at the Main Building entrance.
“This is more than just a sponsorship, it is a strategic partnership built on shared values,” Dr. Kigozi remarked. “With this support, we are positioned to establish a fully equipped Disability Support Unit and a sustainable pool of funds to assist economically disadvantaged students.”
The marathon, slated under the theme “Run the Hills for the Future,” seeks to unify students, alumni, corporate entities, and professional athletes in pursuit of a common cause. At its core, the MakRun2025 promotes active lifestyles, social inclusion, and a sense of communal responsibility.
“It’s not just a race,” Prof. Nawangwe emphasized. “It is a movement to break barriers, change lives, and build a resilient, inclusive university.”
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe poses with the #MakRun2025 photo frame.
The marathon’s broader impact includes fundraising for students living with disabilities and those facing financial hardship, contributing directly to the university’s Endowment Fund.
A major highlight of the event is the introduction of a full 42.2-kilometer marathon—bringing international standards to the annual run. Organizers have promised a professional, accredited experience with traffic-free routes and ample support for runners.
“This edition will elevate the MakRun into a world-class event,” said Mr. Muyobo. “We are proud to support Makerere University in realizing its dream of a globally recognized marathon that reflects Uganda’s commitment to education and inclusivity.”
Beyond the race itself, the event will feature a vibrant line-up of activities, including music, drama, and games for all age groups. It is designed to foster a festival-like atmosphere that welcomes every member of the community.
Officials pose with runners in the Freedom Square.
Organizers and university leaders have extended an open invitation to students, staff, alumni, corporate partners, and Kampala residents to participate, cheer, or donate to the cause.
“Every step taken is a step towards hope for a student,” Dr. Kigozi stated. “Together, we are building a Makerere that cares, includes, and uplifts.”
The partnership is expected to significantly enhance the university’s ability to support underprivileged students and improve campus infrastructure for students with disabilities. It also sets the tone for future collaborations that align with the values of compassion, excellence, and innovation. The fifth edition of the MakRun is scheduled to take place on August 17th, 2025.
The Government of Uganda and AFRISA in Collaboration with Makerere University invites applicants for Diploma and Certificate programs tenable at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio-security (COVAB).
Makerere University has today Wednesday, 9th June 2025 officially unveiled NCBA Bank Uganda as the Platinum Sponsor of the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon. Formerly known as a fun run, the initiative was rebranded on 27th March 2025 during the launch of its Fifth Edition. This year’s event, #MakRun2025, is slated for 17th August 2025 under the theme “Run the Hills for the Future”.
MakEF Board Chairperson, Dr. Maggie Kigozi.
Addressing the Media at a press conference this afternoon, the MakEF Board Chairperson, Dr. Maggie Kigozi remarked, “We are deeply honoured and excited to unveil NCBA Bank Uganda as the Platinum Sponsor of #MakRun2025, with a landmark commitment of UGX 1.45 billion over the next five years.”
Dr. Maggie Kigozi shows her support for #MakRun2025.
Dr. Kigozi further described the unveiling as “a strategic partnership built on shared values and a common vision for inclusive education and sustainable impact,” adding that it would “fast-track the establishment of a fully equipped Disability Support Unit for students living with disabilities, and to build a sustainable pool of funds to support Economically Disadvantaged Students.”
Appreciating the generous sponsorship, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe acknowledged that NCBA Bank had not only made history as the biggest corporate sponsor of #MakRun to date but also aligned with Makerere’s vision to improve the quality of student life. “This is a powerful gesture of trust in our mission and a demonstration of deep corporate citizenship”, he added.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe makes his remarks.
Prof. Nawangwe further thanked NCBA for recognizing that an investment in Makerere University is an indirect investment in the future of Uganda. “The Makerere Marathon is not just a race. It is a movement to establish a fully-fledged Disability Support Unit for students living with various forms of disabilities, and to build a sustainable fund for Economically Disadvantaged Students.”
The Vice Chancellor therefore rallied staff, students, alumni, partners and friends of Makerere to match NCBA’s generous support with vigour and commitment, so as to make #MakRun2025 the most impactful edition since its founding.
Mr. Mark Muyobo makes his remarks at the press conference.
The Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mark Muyobo thanked Makerere University for giving NCBA Bank Uganda the opportunity to play its part in “shaping Uganda’s future one student, one community, one strength at a time,” adding that #MakRun is a symbol of hope for students living with disabilities as it speaks to Makerere’s core values of inclusion, equity, and excellence.
On a rhythmical note, Mr. Muyobo remarked that the #MakRun2025 theme is “not just about finishing lines, it is about opening doors; giving opportunities to those who are disabled. It is about promoting active lifestyle.”
Runners get flagged off for an evening run after the unveiling ceremony.
#MakRun2025 will for the first time feature a full 42.2km marathon race with international accreditation and professional timing along a dedicated traffic-free route.
“These are not just upgrades, these are bold steps towards building a world-class international marathon right here in Kampala. We are proud to be the wings at your back as you take this leap because when Makerere University, the beacon of higher learning in Uganda grows stronger, the ripple effects are felt across the region and across the continent” Mr. Muyobo affirmed.
Mr. Mark Muyobo (L) and Dr. Maggie Kigozi (R) pose with the signed MoU.
To officially seal the deal, a Memorandum of Understanding was officially signed between Makerere University and NCBA Bank Uganda, and thereafter, a dummy cheque of UGX 1.45 billion was presented to Dr. Maggie Kigozi as the Vice Chancellor, Members of Management and NCBA staff witnessed.
Left to Right: Mr. Mark Muyobo, Dr. Maggie Kigozi and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe pose for a photo at the Main Building entrance.