Denis Okwar

• Senior development specialist, with over fifteen years of experience in development and humanitarian programming contexts. • Extensive experience implementing, managing and leading health system strengthening and service delivery programs (focusing on Human Resources for Health (HRH); HIV/AIDS, Reproductive Health/Family Planning; and Nutrition). I have also had substantial experience working on Local Governance; Education; Infrastructural development and WASH; Food Security/Food Assistance (school feeding and general food distribution) in both stable and fragile settings. • Was Chief of Party (in the last two years) of a $67 million, 7 year, USAID funded Strengthening Decentralization for Sustainability (SDS) Program, implemented by Cardno Emerging Markets. • Long-term engagements with Marie Stopes Uganda, ACDI/VOCA, and Norwegian Refugee Council as well as short-term professional assignments with UNDP. • Significant experience of working in consortiums and managing partners (with over 10 SDS program sub awardees notably 3 Faith Based Organizations (FBOs), 4 Civil Society Organizations and 4 sub contractors (ACLAIM Africa, Infectious Diseases Institute, Tangaza Cinemas, Uganda Healthcare Federation). • Sound understanding and experience of financial and reporting regulations of US Government (USAID, PEPFAR, Food For Peace, Title II) and other key institutional donors e.g. DFID, UN system (WFP, UNFPA, UNDP) and private foundations. • Implemented Performance Based Financing initiatives and possess expertise in Grants Management. • Proven strategic and dedicated leadership skills, demonstrated high integrity and a track record of managing, and delivering results within complex programs. • Substantial experience of building, motivating and managing staff/teams in disperse locations. • Have participated in and am knowledgeable of coordination mechanisms such as USAID District Operational Plans (DOP) and UN Cluster system.