Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning (MEAL) Manager at Catholic Relief Services (CRS)

Job Ref Code: MMY71519
Location: Damaturu Yobe State/Maiduguri, Borno
Band: 8
Department: Programs/MEAL
Reports To: MEAL Coordinator

Primary Job Responsibilities

• Under the direction of the MEAL Coordinator, the MEAL Manager will lead all MEAL related activities including, but not limited to: monitoring progress on project indicators, elaboration of M&E tools, conducting needs/market/post activity assessments, beneficiary database management, recalibration of beneficiary targeting at project mid-point, development and implementation of accountability mechanism as well as compilation of monthly, bi-monthly, and quarterly reports.
• The MEAL Manager will be initially based in Damaturu with frequent trips to the project area and will report to the MEAL Coordinator but will also work closely with the Program Managers and Emergency Coordinator for technical support.

Specific Responsibilities

• Design and manage Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning system with the support from MEAL Coordinator.
• Develop or adapt project specific MEAL tools and carry out field testing where necessary.
• Track donor and CRS reporting requirements and deadlines and provide MEAL information to Program Managers and Emergency Coordinators for drafting reports.
• Document learning to inform program quality development
• Determine role of all actors involved in providing technical support to project monitoring and evaluation.
• Provide direct and supportive supervision over MEAL unit staff, particularly the M&E Officers, Accountability Assistant, MEAL Assistant etc. and ensure that coaching and performance plans are completed on time and with adherence to CRS talent management quality standards.
• Assist MEAL Coordinator to ensure consistency of standards, harmonization of information and input from beneficiaries and sharing of learnings.
• Verify data for completeness, correctness and consistency and follow up on any data/program quality issues.
• Support Program Managers and MEAL Officers in conducting regular MEAL field visits to collect data with the help of partners, assess the application of MEAL tools, and assist in preparation of monthly/quarterly report to donors and CRS office.
• Identify bottlenecks in the program MEAL systems, recommend appropriate solutions and ensure follow-through.

Qualifications and Skills

• University Degree, preferably in Statistics, Information Management, Management, Social Sciences or related fields.
• At least 5 years of experience in Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning, preferably in humanitarian or development context.
• Proven track record and experience in developing M&E plan, systems and database using MS office applications (Excel or Access) and software applications.
• Strong knowledge and proven experience on developing and analyzing logical and conceptual framework.
• Ability to train partners and staff on developing and maintaining the M&E system.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent written and oral communications skills in English.
• Knowledge of Kanuri, Hausa and other relevant local languages is appreciated.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work in a diverse team and manage complex and sensitive organizational relationships.
• Demonstrable understanding of and commitment to promoting gender equity and the interests of vulnerable people.
• Enthusiasm for and commitment to CRS’s values and guiding principles.
• Ability to manage complex workloads and deliver work to tight deadlines.
• Ability to travel frequently and stay in difficult environments

Key Working Relationships:

• Internal: MEAL Officers, Accountability Assistant, MEAL Coordinator, MEAL Assistant, Program Officers, Program Manager, Emergency Coordinator, Operations Staff
• External: Local partners, Red Rose team, enumerators, external consultants and other key stakeholders

Supervision:

• The MEAL Manager supervises OFDA MEAL Officer based in Borno and OFDA MEAL Assistant based in Yobe.

Travel:

• Travel up to 20% of the time as needed.