Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Director at Connexus Corporation

About the Opportunity:

• We are seeking experienced candidates for the position of Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) Director for the anticipated USAID/Nigeria Value Chain Activity. The MEL Director will be responsible for developing and implementing an efficient system for project performance measurement, in addition to overseeing regular data collection, aggregation, analysis, and transmission of activities and results. Note: this is a preliminary position description and may be clarified further after solicitation release.

Tasks and Responsibilities

• Develop initial monitoring, evaluation and learning systems, coordinating with implementing partners to ensure that all MEL activities are designed and implemented within the framework of the Activity, and that they allow the project to gather all necessary data and information.
• Lead MEL team to develop a logic model and MEL plans, develop and maintain performance indicator reference sheets, and collect and review monitoring data on a routine basis.
• Provide guidance and oversight of quality assurance processes for data collection, analysis, and use to ensure high-quality reporting and data products that meet USAID contracting requirements.
• Collaborate with Activity leadership and Connexus home office to design and implement baseline evaluations.
• Report results regularly to partners and donors and provide feedback for country programming.
• Regularly analyze the effectiveness of the Activity’s approach based on thorough data collection and analysis.
• Track lessons learned and draft impact reports to share results with partners and donors.
• Coordinate and participate in any independent evaluations by external auditors.
• Oversee regular data collection, aggregation, and analysis, ensuring adherence to USAID and Connexus policies.
• Manage and oversee the activities of MEL Specialist(s).

Qualifications

• Master's Degree in Economics, Business Administration, Finance, or related field (specialized training in MEL required), and at least 10 years of MEL experience in a development setting, preferably for USAID or other donor-funded project; or bachelor's degree in economics, business administration, finance, or related field (specialized training in MEL required), and at least 12 years of MEL experience in a development setting, preferably for USAID or another donor-funded project.
• Experience designing and overseeing MEL data collection and reporting for USAID-funded projects, especially for agriculture and value chain projects valued above $25 million.
• Proven ability to implement, operationalize, and manage information collection and assessment systems.
• Proven ability to create and manage information databases using appropriate software applications, such as spreadsheet and database packages (Excel, Access, etc.), statistical software (SPSS, Sphinx, etc.), and geographical tools (Arcview, GPS).
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with public and private sector partners and other stakeholders.
• Excellent written communication skills, including ability to produce high-quality project reports.
• Fluency in English required and other local languages desired.
• Must be authorized to work in Nigeria.