Country MEAL Manager - National Position at Malteser International

Key Responsibilities:

MEAL Framework Development and Implementation:

• Develop and update comprehensive MEAL frameworks and systems for the Country Program, integrating monitoring, evaluation, risk management, and learning components.
• Ensure alignment with organizational standards and program objectives, providing technical support to ensure effective implementation.
• Lead the design and implementation of high-quality monitoring and evaluation systems, including data collection tools and methodologies, to track project progress and outcomes
• Oversee the management of MEAL data systems, ensuring data security, confidentiality, and accessibility for relevant stakeholders.
• Integrate risk management frameworks into MEAL activities, conducting regular risk assessments and developing mitigation strategies in collaboration with program teams.
• Ensure ethical considerations are integrated throughout MEAL processes, including data collection, analysis, and reporting, in accordance with organizational policies and international standards.
• Ensure gender, age, and disability inclusion (GADI) considerations are integrated into all MEAL activities and reporting.

Data Management Compliance Assurance:

• Lead the development and adaptation of MEAL tools and methodologies to enhance data collection, analysis, and reporting efficiency and effectiveness
• Conduct regular data quality assessments, validation exercises, and support visits to ensure data integrity and reliability.
• Conduct comprehensive data analysis, interpret findings, and prepare insightful reports and presentations for senior management and external stakeholders.
• Provide guidance on ethical dilemmas and promote a culture of integrity and accountability in MEAL activities.
• Monitor compliance with organizational and donor requirements, ensuring MEAL activities meet established standards and guidelines.

Learning and Adaptation:

• Facilitate project evaluations, both internal and external, ensuring rigorous methodologies and the dissemination of findings to inform programmatic decision-making.
• Organize learning reviews and reflection sessions to capture insights, promote adaptive management practices, and document lessons learned.
• Provide technical support and capacity-building initiatives for MEAL staff and program teams, including training on evaluation methodologies, risk management frameworks, and learning approaches.
• Mentor program staff in applying tools and techniques effectively, fostering professional growth and development within the team.
• Support the development of contingency plans and response mechanisms based on risk assessments and lessons learned.
• Contribute to strategic planning by providing evidence-based recommendations derived from MEAL data and analysis.
• Prepare comprehensive reports and presentations on MEAL outcomes, highlighting achievements, challenges, and strategic insights for senior management and external stakeholders.
• Support resource mobilization efforts by providing MEAL-related data, evidence, and impact assessments to strengthen funding proposals and donor relations.

Research and Innovation:

• Determine areas of research and come up with new innovations.
• Take lead in the discovery of new knowledge that could lead to changes in policies, interventions and programs.
• Collaborating with other research bodies, stakeholders, and players to ensure the quality and impact of research.
• Keeping up to date with the latest developments and trends in research.

Your profile:

• Bachelor’s degree in Monitoring and Evaluation, Statistics, Social Sciences, Development Studies, or a related field. A Masters. is an added advantage.
• 7+ years of progressive experience in MEARL within an INGO or development organization.
• Proven track record of designing and implementing M&E frameworks and systems.
• Demonstrated experience with donor reporting standards (e.g., USAID, EU, UN, BMZ).
• Strong background in data management, including experience with statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R, STATA) and data visualization tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau).
• Experience with research methodologies, including both qualitative and quantitative research methods.
• Proficiency in English is required; knowledge of Kiswahili is an advantage.

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in developing Logical Frameworks, Theories of Change, and other M&E methodologies.
• Familiarity with accountability and feedback mechanisms for community-driven development.
• Expertise in data analysis and visualization, with a solid understanding of statistical techniques.
• Knowledge of project management principles and experience in budget monitoring for MEARL activities.

Soft Skills:

• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex data to non-technical stakeholders.
• Proven leadership and people management skills with the ability to build strong working relationships.
• Detail-oriented, organized, and able to handle multiple priorities under tight deadlines.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

• Timeliness and Quality of M&E Data: MEARL data are collected and reported on time and meet quality standards.
• Impact of Accountability Mechanisms: Demonstrated improvements in program alignment with community needs through feedback systems.
• Quality of Research Outputs: High-quality, relevant research and learning materials produced and shared with stakeholders.
• Capacity Building Outcomes: Increased MEARL competencies among program staff and local partners.
• Data Utilization: Evidence of data-driven decision-making in program design and implementation.