Job Vacancies at Association for Reproductive and Family Health (ARFH)

The Position:

• The Director of Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning (MERL) will lead the design and implementation of the overall monitoring, evaluation, research, and learning strategy for an anticipated USAID-Funded Primary Health Care Improvement Program(UPHIP)   This role is critical to ensure that the project effectively tracks progress, captures evidence of impact, and applies learning to improve performance.
• The Director, MERL will ensure data-driven decision-making, contribute to the sustainability of project outcomes, and enhance organizational learning by providing comprehensive insights into program effectiveness.

Purpose of the Role:

• The Director, MERL will oversee the monitoring, evaluation, research, and learning components of the project, ensuring robust systems are in place to track performance, assess impact, and generate high-quality evidence for internal learning and donor reporting. The role will involve working closely with project staff, partners, and stakeholders to ensure that data collection, analysis, and reporting are consistent with the program’s objectives and donor requirements

Specific Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities:

Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) System Design and Implementation

• Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive MERL strategy that aligns with the project’s goals, donor requirements, and organizational policies.
• Design and implement effective M&E frameworks, tools, and processes to track project outputs, outcomes, and impact.
• Ensure the establishment of baseline data and develop performance indicators that are SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound).
• Lead the development of detailed monitoring and evaluation plans, including data collection, analysis, and reporting protocols.
• Ensure that M&E systems are fully integrated with program management and provide real-time feedback for program improvement.

Data Collection, Management, and Analysis

• Oversee the collection and analysis of qualitative and quantitative data, ensuring high data quality, integrity, and accuracy.
• Develop and implement data quality assurance processes, including training staff on proper data collection and validation methods.
• Utilize data management systems to track key performance indicators and provide timely updates to project leadership.
• Lead efforts to analyze data for trends, patterns, and outcomes to inform project implementation and decision-making.

Research and Evaluation

• Design and oversee rigorous research and evaluation studies, including impact evaluations, baseline studies, mid-term reviews, and final evaluations.
• Ensure that research initiatives are aligned with the project’s objectives and provide actionable insights for program adaptation.
• Collaborate with academic institutions, research organizations, and partners to conduct research and disseminate findings.
• Use research and evaluation data to contribute to thought leadership, including the development of policy briefs, research reports, and presentations.

Learning and Knowledge Management

• Establish a learning agenda to ensure continuous improvement of project activities and strategies based on evidence and lessons learned.
• Foster a culture of learning and knowledge-sharing within the project team, partners, and stakeholders.
• Organize learning events, workshops, and meetings to disseminate findings and promote the application of learning in program implementation.
• Document best practices, success stories, and lessons learned to enhance the project’s visibility and reputation with donors and external stakeholders.

Donor Reporting and Stakeholder Engagement

• Prepare high-quality M&E reports, research briefs, and presentations for internal use and donor submission.
• Ensure timely and accurate reporting on project performance, impact, and challenges to the donor, partners, and stakeholders.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for M&E-related matters with the donor, government counterparts, and other key stakeholders.
• Participate in external meetings, donor visits, and stakeholder events to share project results and learning.

Capacity Building and Team Management

• Lead, mentor, and manage the MERL team, including M&E officers, data analysts, and field staff, ensuring high-quality performance and professional growth.
• Provide technical assistance and capacity-building support to project staff, local partners, and government counterparts on M&E practices and standards.

• Ensure that all MERL staff are equipped with the skills and tools required to collect, manage, and analyze data effectively.

Deliverables

• A comprehensive MERL plan, including performance indicators and data collection methodologies..
• High-quality quarterly, semi-annual, and annual M&E reports that meet donor requirements and provide insights into project performance.
• Research studies and evaluation reports that assess project impact and generate recommendations for program improvement.
• Learning briefs, case studies, and success stories that document key achievements, challenges, and lessons learned.

Regular updates to senior leadership on key performance indicators, including presentations and data visualizations.

Required Experience

Educational Qualifications and Experience:

Essential

• Master’s degree or higher in statistics, demography, social sciences, international development, or a related field.
• At least 8 years of experience in leading M&E functions for large-scale, multi-sectoral, donor-funded projects.
• Demonstrated expertise in M&E systems design, data collection methodologies, and statistical analysis.
• Strong experience with both qualitative and quantitative research methods, including data analysis software (e.g., SPSS, Stata, R).
• Proven experience in designing and managing research and evaluation studies, including impact assessments.
• Excellent knowledge of donor requirements for M&E (e.g., USAID, DFID, EU).
• Strong communication skills, including report writing and presenting complex data to various stakeholders.

Minimum Qualifications

Preferred

• Experience working in Nigeria or similar contexts.
• Experience with using technology for data collection, such as mobile data collection tools.
• Experience with managing donor relations and reporting.
• Knowledge of cross-cutting issues such as gender, social inclusion, and sustainability in program M&E.

Competencies

• Analytical Thinking: Ability to analyze large datasets, identify trends, and generate insights to improve program performance.
• Technical Expertise: Strong understanding of M&E frameworks, tools, and methodologies.
• Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor teams and foster a culture of learning and accountability.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present findings clearly and effectively.
• Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills and experience working with diverse teams and stakeholders, including government and local partners.
• Adaptability: Ability to adapt M&E strategies to meet changing program needs and donor requirements.

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The Position:

• The Deputy Chief of Party (DCOP)/Technical Director will support the Chief of Party in the overall management, technical direction, and implementation of an anticipated USAID-Funded Primary Health Care Improvement Program (UPHIP). The DCOP/Technical Director will provide leadership in the design and implementation of technical strategies and interventions that meet the project’s goals and objectives.

Purpose of the Role:

• The DCoP/Technical Director will be responsible for overseeing the technical design and execution of project activities. S/he will ensure the technical quality of project deliverables, align activities with donor requirements, and support the CoP in the day-to-day management of the project. The role will also involve coordinating with sector leads and technical experts to ensure timely, high-quality implementation across all programmatic areas.

Specific Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities:

Technical Leadership

• Lead the technical planning and design of project activities, ensuring alignment with the overall project strategy, donor guidelines, and best practices.
• Oversee the technical aspects of the program, including the development of innovative approaches, methodologies, and interventions in RMNCAH, Malaria, HRH and Health Systems Strengthening
• Ensure the integration of cross-cutting themes such as gender, youth, social inclusion, and sustainability in all project activities.
• Serve as the technical expert and provide strategic guidance to sector leads and technical teams on project execution.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of sector trends, developments, and emerging best practices to inform project interventions.

Program Management and Coordination

• Support the Chief of Party in managing day-to-day project operations and ensuring that project deliverables are met within the set timeline and budget.
• Coordinate closely with project managers and sector leads to ensure smooth implementation of all activities.
• Work with the CoP to develop and monitor work plans, ensuring the timely completion of activities and the effective use of project resources.
• Contribute to the development of strategic plans, monitoring and evaluation (M&E) frameworks, and performance monitoring plans to track and assess project outcomes.

Capacity Building

• Provide technical oversight and capacity-building support to project staff, local partners, and government counterparts to ensure the sustainability of interventions.
• Lead efforts to strengthen the technical capacity of project teams and partners through training, mentoring, and technical assistance.

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning

• Collaborate with the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) team to track project progress, ensure data collection, and document outcomes and lessons learned.
• Use data and evaluation findings to inform project adjustments and continuous improvement of technical interventions.
• Ensure that evidence-based learning is integrated into project implementation and shared with relevant stakeholders for policy advocacy and practice improvement.

Donor and Stakeholder Engagement

• Provide technical leadership and guidance during donor visits, partner meetings, and external engagements.
• Serve as the technical point of contact with donors, local government agencies, implementing partners, and other stakeholders.
• Prepare and contribute to the technical sections of donor reports, presentations, and external communications.

Financial and Operational Management

• Support the CoP in overseeing the project budget and ensuring that technical interventions are cost-effective and within budgetary constraints.

• Ensure compliance with donor regulations and organizational policies, particularly in relation to the technical execution of project activities

Deliverables

• Lead the preparation and timely submission of technical reports, project deliverables, and key performance indicators (KPIs) to the donor.
• Ensure the successful implementation of all technical activities within the agreed-upon timelines and resources.
• Produce technical briefs, case studies, and success stories to highlight the project’s impact.

Contribute to the sustainability of project interventions by building the technical capacity of local stakeholders and ensuring best practices are institutionalized.

Required Experience

Educational Qualifications and Experience:

Essential

• A first degree in health or social science and Master’s degree in Public Health.
• A minimum of 8 years of relevant technical experience, including at least 5 years of experience managing large-scale, donor-funded projects.
• Demonstrated expertise in RMNCAH, Malaria, HRH and HealthCare Financing
• Proven experience in project management, including work planning, budgeting, and reporting.
• Strong understanding of donor regulations and requirements (e.g., USAID, DFID, EU).
• Excellent leadership, management, and interpersonal skills.

Minimum Qualifications

Preferred

• Experience working in Nigeria or similar contexts.
• Experience with capacity building and working with local partners and government institutions.
• Familiarity with cross-cutting issues such as gender, social inclusion, and sustainability.

Competencies

• Technical Expertise: Deep understanding of RMNCAH, Malaria, HRH and HealthCare Financing interventions with the ability to design and oversee high-quality technical interventions.
• Leadership: Ability to provide strategic direction and lead a multidisciplinary team.
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical skills and ability to identify and implement innovative solutions.
• Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders, including government, donors, and local communities.
• Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills, including experience in presenting complex technical content to different audiences.
• Adaptability: Ability to thrive in complex, challenging environments and respond effectively to emerging issues.

Reporting Line:

The Deputy Chief of Party/Technical Director will report directly to the Chief of Party and work closely with the project’s senior leadership team, including the M&E Manager, Finance and Operations Director, and sector leads.

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The Position:

• The Chief of Party (CoP) will lead the overall management and implementation of an anticipated USAID-Funded Primary Health Care Improvement Program (UPHIP). The CoP will serve as the principal liaison between the consortium and USAID ensuring the effective, high-quality, and timely delivery of project outcomes.

Purpose of the Role:

• The Chief of Party will be responsible for the overall strategic leadership, management, and execution of the project, ensuring it meets the donor’s objectives and expectations. The CoP will oversee project operations, staff, and resources, and ensure compliance with donor regulations, organization policies, and country laws. Additionally, the CoP will lead programmatic and financial reporting, stakeholder engagement, and ensure the sustainability and institutionalization of project outcomes.

Specific Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities:

Program Leadership and Management

• Provide overall leadership and management of the project, ensuring the achievement of project goals, objectives, and expected results.
• Develop and oversee the implementation of project work plans, ensuring alignment with project deliverables, donor requirements, and the overall program strategy.
• Ensure the integration of gender, social inclusion, and sustainability considerations into all aspects of project design and implementation.

Technical Oversight

• Ensure technical excellence and high standards in the implementation of project activities, providing guidance and expertise in RMNCAH and Health Systems Strengthening
• Coordinate the development and use of monitoring and evaluation systems to track and assess program progress and impact.

Donor and Stakeholder Engagement

• Serve as the primary point of contact with the donor, fostering strong relationships and ensuring that the donor is informed of all major project developments.
• Establish and maintain partnerships with key stakeholders, including government counterparts, local organizations, the private sector, and civil society, to support the success and sustainability of the project.
• Represent the project and organization in relevant forums, including donor meetings, conferences, and external communications.

Financial and Operational Oversight

• Oversee project budgeting and financial management, ensuring that project resources are used effectively and efficiently, and that all expenditures align with donor guidelines and organizational policies.
• Ensure timely preparation and submission of financial reports, programmatic reports, and other deliverables as required by the donor.
• Lead efforts to ensure project compliance with all legal, regulatory, and contractual requirements.

Staff and Team Management

• Lead the recruitment and onboarding of key project personnel, ensuring that the team is equipped with the skills and expertise necessary for the successful execution of the project.
• Provide supervision, mentorship, and capacity-building for project staff, ensuring strong team performance and fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and innovation.

Deliverables

• Develop and submit annual work plans, budgets, and performance monitoring plans.
• Ensure timely submission of high-quality reports, including quarterly, semi-annual, and final reports, to the donor.
• Ensure the successful implementation of all project deliverables in line with the agreed timeline and budget.
• Oversee the development of case studies, best practices, and success stories for external communication and knowledge sharing.

Ensure the project leaves a sustainable impact and that lessons learned are institutionalized within the organization and partner institutions.

Required Experience

Educational Qualifications and Experience:

Essential

• A Medical Degree and Master’s Degree in Public Health
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive management experience in development programs, with at least 5 years of experience as a Chief of Party/DCoP or similar leadership position.
• Proven track record in managing large-scale, multi-sectoral, donor-funded programs, preferably in Nigeria
• Demonstrated experience in program design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation.
• Strong knowledge of donor regulations and requirements (e.g., USAID, DFID, EU, etc.).
• Excellent leadership, team management, and interpersonal skills.

Minimum Qualifications

Preferred

• Experience working with national, state and local government counterparts and building institutional capacity.
• Experience with integrating cross-cutting themes like gender, youth, and social inclusion.

Competencies

• Leadership and Strategic Thinking: Ability to lead a diverse team and develop strategic initiatives to achieve program objectives.
• Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills, including experience in presenting to donors and high-level stakeholders.
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical skills and ability to resolve complex programmatic and operational issues.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment and with diverse communities.
• Financial Acumen: Proven ability to manage large budgets and ensure financial compliance.

Reporting Line:

The Chief of Party will report to the Chief Executive Officer and will work closely with USAID AoR on the project, local government authorities, and relevant stakeholders.