MEL Specialist – Evidence, Evaluation & Analytics at Busara Center

The MEL Specialist will work closely with Busara Project Leads and the research team to perform a variety of tasks, including, but not limited to:

Evaluation Design, Research & Evidence Architecture

• Design evaluations and reviews, including sampling plans, analytical frameworks, and fit-for-purpose methodologies.
• Lead the design and strengthening of Theories of Change, learning frameworks, and measurement strategies.
• Design and apply appropriate evaluation designs, such as mixed-methods, theory-based, quasi-experimental, or contribution analysis.
• Lead or support data collection, including designing qualitative and quantitative tools and protocols.
• Conduct rigorous analysis of primary and secondary datasets to generate actionable insights.
• Ensure all evaluations meet quality, ethical, and learning standards, and are tailored to decision-making needs.

Data Analytics & Data Visualization

• Conduct quantitative analyses using multiple data sources (descriptive statistics, trends, segmentation, simple modeling).
• Develop clear, engaging visualizations (charts, dashboards, summary visuals) that help teams understand patterns quickly.
• Create simple dashboards using tools like Google Sheets, Excel, Data Studio, or similar.
• Present findings visually in ways that support rapid learning and decision-making.

MEL Systems, Tools & Data Quality

• Develop MEL plans, indicator definitions, and practical measurement frameworks.
• Create user-friendly tools such as surveys, interview guides, templates, and checklists.
• Strengthen internal data management systems, including data flows, documentation practices, and verification steps.
• Lead the design of data quality assessments (DQAs) and recommend improvements.

Learning, Synthesis & Reporting

• Produce clear, well-structured evaluation reports, evidence summaries, and learning briefs.
• Support learning sessions, reflection workshops, and sense-making meetings.
• Write case studies, short briefs, and presentations tailored to internal and external audiences.

Internal MEL Capacity Building

• Strengthen MEL capability across Busara by guiding associates and analysts.
• Build and maintain tools, templates, and internal guidance notes.
• Support MEL-related business development by contributing to scopes of work and proposals.