Team Leader - Dr. Lia Tavadze
Lia has over 20 years of experience managing multimillion international health and development programs. She specializes in public health policy, governance, infrastructure, and procurement, with a focus on managing chronic diseases and preparedness for responding on emerging threats to public health. She has worked with UNAIDS in Georgia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, led International Medical Corps teams in Russia, Afghanistan, and the UK, and recently, she led a Swiss-funded Non-Communicable Diseases related initiative in Ukraine and guided health aspects of World Bank COVID-19 response and also, European Investment Bank investment to upgrade hospital sector in Georgia. She has served on the Global Fund’s Technical Review Panel and Cancer Research UK’s International Prevention Advisory Group.
Email: lia.tavadze@ihsproject.org
Deputy Team Leader - Dr. Ilir Mecini
Ilir has experience in family medicine, health management, quality assurance and medical education since 2001. He is a dedicated physician who has cultivated expertise in those various areas within numerous national and international organizations, which have enabled him to stay at the forefront of emerging trends, best practices, and innovations in the field of healthcare.
Ilir finds peace in the company of his loved ones and has a deep appreciation for literature and travelling, which enables him to immerse himself in various cultures and marvel at the beauty of the world.
Email: ilir.mecini@ihsproject.org
Senior Health Expert - Fekrije Hasani
Fekrije is a Senior Health Expert in the IHS project, with over 36 years of nursing education and management experience. With a strong emphasis on strategic planning, nursing standards, and human resource management, Fekrije has established herself as a key leader in Kosovo’s nursing sphere. Her passion for nursing advancement is evident through her published works in local and international magazines, professional journals, and contributions to nursing books. She actively presents at various conferences.
When Fekrije is not at work, she spends her time with her family, especially with her grandson, she indulges in reading and pursuing personal growth activities.
Senior Advocacy and Communications - Linda Baleta
Linda is an advocacy and communications strategist, working with international organizations since 2000, with special focus in the Western Balkan / Eastern Europe region. Operating at them cross-section of communication for development and impact, public engagement, social inclusion, gender, storytelling for impact and media, women and youth empowerment, and knowledge management, Linda uses her skills and experience professionally and also volunteers her time to contribute to the improvement of society, with a focus on promoting human dignity.
When not at work, Linda loves to spend her time writing haiku and travel blogs.
Email: linda.baleta@ihsproject.org
Finance Manager - Albiona Reçica
Albiona is a seasoned finance and administration professional with experience in international organizations implementing projects in Kosovo since 2008. She started her career with the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo before transitioning to various financial roles in reputable organizations such as EPTISA (Servicios de Ingenieria S.L), NICO (UK government agency mandated for EU Twinning projects), International Organization for Migration, and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit.
Albiona excels in ensuring approved budgets are effectively managed and providing valuable feedback for budget forecasts. Her collaborative and compassionate approach enables her to effortlessly communicate complex financial information to colleagues, contributing to the development of accurate financial procedures.
Administrative Officer - Jeta Spahija
Jeta Spahija holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Throughout her career, she has amassed extensive professional experience in general administration, encompassing human resources, management, accounting, finance and budgeting, logistics, and training coordination. Her expertise has been honed through her work with notable organizations such as the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Action Contre La Faim (ACF), Danish Refugee Council (DRC), and IPKO Telecommunications.
In her free time, Jeta enjoys singing for an all-women choir and making beautiful cakes for friends and family.
Email: jeta.spahija@ihsproject.org
Lead of Procurement - Lirak Kelmendi
Lirak brings over two decades of experience in procurement and logistics to his role, having worked with esteemed organizations such as the Norwegian Red Cross and Save the Children. His experience and meticulous approach ensured the smooth execution of Swiss TPH project activities first with AQH (Accessible Quality Healthcare), currently supporting the IHS team in achieving its goals.
Logistic Assistant - Artan Çitaku
Artan is a versatile and dedicated professional who excels in the roles of driver and logistics assistant. With a strong background in driving and a knack for managing various logistics tasks, he contributes significantly to our project operations. Artan’s expertise ensures seamless transportation and efficient logistics coordination, enabling us to fulfill our mission of making a positive impact in the community.
Outside of work, Artan indulges his passion for sports, particularly football, both as a player and an avid spectator.