Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning/Collaboration, Learning, and Adapting (MEL/CLA) Director, USAID Kenya Private Sector Development Initiative at Micro Enterprises Support Programme Trust (MESPT)

Project Overview:

MESPT is recruiting for a MEL/CLA Director for the anticipated USAID Kenya and East Africa Private Sector Development Initiative Activity. The activity is focused on accelerating ag-led growth in Kenya through partnerships with larger agricultural sector firms (such as processors and off-takers) and expansion of smallholder farmer out-grower schemes. The anticipated activity will focus on creating jobs and generating large scale increases in sales/exports in the agriculture sector cost-effectively and, ideally, through a sustainable and locally led vehicle.

Role:

The MEL/CLA Director will lead the monitoring, evaluation, and learning/collaboration, learning and adapting components of the project. S/he will be responsible for designing the MEL system in alignment with the USAID results framework; leading the project data collection; conducting data analysis to inform the project implementation; and producing timely, accurate, and complete reporting. S/he will be responsible for building the capacity of project staff, local partners, and other stakeholders in the collection, utilization, and dissemination of data. S/he will also lead quarterly CLA pause-and-reflect working group meetings and other CLA activities.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of eight (8) years of experience designing and implementing MEL and CLA systems for international development projects. Prior experience in a MEL leadership position required.
• Strong track record of working on projects of similar scope (agriculture, market systems), complexity, and size. Experience managing MEL for a USAID Feed the Future activity is desirable.
• Ability to communicate findings to a range of external and internal stakeholders and apply MEL results to project implementation strategies.
• Experience mentoring staff in MEL techniques. Experience strengthening the capacity of local organizations in knowledge management and learning.
• Prior experience leading, designing, managing, and/or commissioning performance evaluations and other types of research.
• Previous experience in Kenya or another East African country strongly preferred.
• Master’s degree in Statistics, Public Policy, International Development, or a related field.
• Proficiency in statistical software such as STATA, SPSS, or a similar package.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Fluency in English required.
• Local candidates are strongly encouraged to apply