MEAL Manager at Centre for Community Development and Research Network (CCDRN)

Job Purpose

• The MEAL Manager will oversee the design and implementation of the Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) system for the Livelihood Resilient Project.
• This role ensures that the MEAL system is comprehensive and integrates into the project's overall operational framework, providing timely, accurate, and relevant data to guide decision-making and enhance project outcomes.

Key Responsibilities
Monitoring and Evaluation:

• Lead the design and implementation of a robust MEAL framework, developing comprehensive indicators, targets, and benchmarks using a results-based management approach.
• Develop and execute a strategic monitoring plan encompassing systematic data collection and analysis on project outputs, outcomes, and impact, utilizing advanced data analytics and visualization tools.
• Conduct comprehensive monitoring visits to assess project implementation, gather data, and identify areas for improvement, ensuring the use of a participatory and inclusive methodology.
• Analyze and interpret complex data sets, identify key trends and patterns, and provide actionable insights and recommendations for enhancing project effectiveness.

Accountability:

• Establish and ensure the effective operation of accountability mechanisms, including creating a responsive complaint response system that promotes participation and inclusivity.
• Develop and implement a structured feedback and complaint response system, facilitating the collection, analysis, and integration of beneficiary feedback into program improvements.
• Train and support project staff and partners to adhere to and implement accountability policies and procedures, emphasizing consistent training and capacity-building activities.

Learning:

• Using adaptive and reflective approaches, identify, document, and promote lessons learned throughout the project lifecycle, including successes, challenges, and potential areas for improvement.
• Develop a comprehensive knowledge management system for collecting and disseminating best practices and lessons learned, employing a knowledge-sharing platform to facilitate collaboration.
• Lead and organize reflection and learning sessions among project staff and partners, including workshops and capacity-building sessions, fostering an environment of collective learning and knowledge exchange.

Reporting:

• Prepare, review, and submit detailed reports on MEAL activities to the Program Director and relevant stakeholders, including comprehensive monitoring, evaluation, and accountability reports.
• Using a results-based management approach, ensure all reports are precise and timely and provide actionable recommendations, enhancing project learning and adjustments.

Capacity Building and Collaboration:

• Lead the development and implementation of training programs to enhance the MEAL capacity of project staff and partners.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure alignment of the MEAL system with project objectives, promoting a collaborative and integrated approach.
• Engage with external evaluators and stakeholders to incorporate best practices and innovative approaches into the project MEAL framework.

Other Responsibilities:

• Perform additional tasks as assigned by the Program Director or project management team, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability to support all facets of the project.
• Engage in cross-functional collaboration to ensure the MEAL system effectively supports and enhances the broader project and organizational objectives.

Qualifications
Required Skills and Experience:

• Master's Degree in Monitoring and Evaluation, Social Sciences, Development Studies, or a related field.
• At least five years of relevant experience in MEAL roles, preferably within the context of livelihood and resilience projects.
• Advanced technical expertise in MEAL systems design and implementation, with substantial experience in data analytics and visualization.
• We have a proven track record in capacity building and training program design and implementation for diverse audiences.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills, with a demonstrated ability to work effectively within a multicultural team environment.

Preferred Skills and Qualifications:

• Experience with innovative methods such as mobile data collection and community-based participatory approaches.
• Familiarity with donor-specific requirements and reporting standards, particularly about livelihood projects.
• Strong background in collaboration with local stakeholders, government entities, and community organizations.
• A proactive commitment to gender sensitivity and inclusivity in all MEAL and project methodologies.