Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning (MEAL) Senior Officer at International Rescue Committee

Under the direct supervision of the Lodwar Field Manager, and technical supervision of the Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning Coordinator, the MEAL Senior Officer shall be responsible for the overall collection, summarizing, compiling and dissemination, storing and timely reporting of all forms of data in, Health, Nutrition, CGPP/GHS, WPE and Livelihood programs. The MEAL senior officer will also drive projects’ adaptation and continuous improvement based on the evidence and learning gathered through analyzed data, including client feedback. They will supervise and head the MEAL departments. They will provide the technical input and oversight to the integration and use of data management systems including Comcare, ODK, KOBO and KHIS and to manage the tools to facilitate data entry, transmission, and use. Key to success will be building the capacity of staff on use of the systems, data analysis and information use to improve the quality of programming. They shall coordinate with program managers and officers in sharing monitoring and evaluation information/results and support in preparation and dissemination of program reports and program design

Key Responsibilities

MEAL Technical Oversight

• Lead the MEAL system and processes for the IRC Lodwar program in harmony with the MEAL Country and Global Strategy throughout the project cycle which include:
• Use learning, evidence, and data from previous projects to inform project proposal design.
• Develop logical frameworks, MEAL plans, digital data collection tools, processes for online data management.
• Develop and manage information management systems for monitoring and evaluation and generate periodic reports to inform and guide programs.
• Oversee implementation of M&E systems (including HIMS and KHIS) through regular field monitoring visits and tracking of Key Performance Indicators at the facility and camp level.
• Establish and ensure timely data flow, quality checks, and audits, and updating of data visualization.
• Supervise MEAL field activities.
• Undertake regular analysis of monitoring data and work closely with program coordinators and managers to facilitate decision-making for real-time program adaptation.
• Produce quality reports and updating dashboards with key findings that foster learning and decision-making and share in project cycle management meetings and team meetings.
• Identify, detail, and share lessons learned to improve services and results for our clients. 
• Participate actively in the enforcement of Quality Assurance (QA), Quality Control (QC) and Quality Improvement (QI) measures for all field program interventions
• Engage in the design, method, and conduct of surveys such as baseline and end line, and the commission of evaluations in coordination with colleagues and partners.
• Advocate for and support the expansion of standard mobile data technology and online dashboard to enhance timeliness and quality of data collection, analysis and visualization.
• Ensure a high level of communication and close working relationships with the project team, project implementers, and other key stakeholders
• Join and contribute to IRC’s effort in meeting its internal and external accountability commitments through the implementation of sound accountability, client feedback, and response mechanisms.

Leadership and partnership:

• Provide leadership on all technical aspects and actions of MEAL regarding the Health, Nutrition, WASH, Protection and WPE sectors; respond to program needs; foster high standards and practices for quality data, analysis, and reports. Enable accountability to clients, partners, and donors.
• Improve MEAL systems and approaches and foster learning.
• Represent IRC at technical meetings, forums, and other events & build partnership within IRC and other areas of expertise.
• Champion design, access and use of data by leaders and partners for shared learning and evidence-based decision-making.
• Collaborate with MEAL teams within and outside IRC to support harmonization of MEAL systems and approaches, sharing capacity and experiences. 

Grant Management and compliance:

• Work with the field teams to ensure that program indicators are tracked through regular data review meetings and field visits.
•  Review all reports to ensure that data provided is reliable and accurate and that target indicators are met, and explanations provided where indicators are not met.
• Ensure that programs are on track through keeping and updating indicator tracking sheets/matrix.

Human Resources:

• Administratively and technically supervise MEAL Assistants as appropriate.
• Coordinate, lead, mentor and support a dynamic small to medium team of MEAL staff; foster timely and high-quality achievement, and an inclusive and respectful team climate.
• Promote the growth and development of others in IRC teams and partners in MEAL: Lead and craft high-quality technical training and learning materials for partners, colleagues, and junior staff.
• Participate in the recruitment and onboarding of program MEAL officers, assistants, and (if relevant) external consultants.

Qualifications

• University degree in Health Informatics, Computer Science, M&E, Public Health or related field.
• At least 3 years’ experience with health information systems, database management, and technology implementation or equivalent.
• Computer literacy with possible advanced Ms word, Ms Excel, Ms PowerPoint and Ms access
• Knowledge in computer statistical packages (EPI INFO, SPSS and Stata)
• Knowledge and experience in statistical analysis and data management software and methodology along with key platforms (CommCare, ONA, Power BI, KOBO and or ODK)

Required Experience & Competencies:

• Good knowledge of monitoring and evaluation technologies, techniques, approaches and methodologies in health programs.
• Demonstrated experience and understanding of health information systems design, development, roll-out, and/or use (e.g. HMIS, KHIS, EMR)
• Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines with quality products. Strong communication skills; oral, written and presentation skills.
• Strong management skills (Managing, motivating and developing staff)
• Excellent planning and organizational skills with the ability to appropriately manage and delegate work
• Team player.
• Ready to work in difficult environmental conditions
• Must be flexible and culturally sensitive