Monitoring, Evaluation, Reporting and Learning Manager at Equity Group Foundation

Monitoring and Reporting:

• Monitor and facilitate program progress measurement, reporting and tracking compliance with donor requirements and internal program quality systems.
• Conduct complex data analysis processes and reporting for all relevant purposes for the preparation of quarterly reports, annual reports for partners and board reports.
• Take lead in drafting, consolidation, and submission of program reports to program partners, Equity Group Board and the contribute to the preparation of the annual impact report.
• Contribute towards improvement in result-based reporting and quality of reports to donors/partners and internal reporting structures.
• Prepare technical briefs and special papers on key thematic areas of focus and strategic program achievements
• Facilitate the implementation of the MERL plan, regularly revising and updating performance questions, indicators, methods, and formats.
• Coordinate and participate in regular field monitoring visits and submit field visit reports.
• Periodically review and advise on the development of tailor-made MERL tools.
• Take charge of data quality management for the programme and ensure integration of data quality standards in reporting of programme achievements.
• Supervise the management of the EGF Data Management and Information System to facilitate effective access to data/information and efficient managerial decision making.

Design and Planning:

• Develop and facilitate the review of the programme Theory of Change, MERL frameworks and tools including the specific program MERL plans, log frames, performance monitoring plans and indicator reference sheets.
• Provide technical input in the development of compelling grant proposals and concepts with strong and well-articulated MERL sections.
• With support from the Associate Director and other MERL Managers, develop and test systems and processes to respond to the demands of adaptive programming.
• Support the integration of successful approaches in routine MERL practices.
• Organize and facilitate training on the application of result-based monitoring and evaluation in program design, management, and reporting.
• Prepare MERL activity concepts, annual works plans and budgets.
• Develop and implement cost-effective and real time data collection systems and tools including but not limited to the use of mobile devices and digital survey tools.
• Serve as a key liaison person with EGF program team, finance, operations, procurement, and management teams in MERL related matters.
• Developed a close working relationship with external partners including donors, Government, private sector and Non-Governmental organizations in MERL practice and collaborations.
• Proactively work with the MERL team and key stakeholders to resolve and/or disseminate key risks, issues and best practices identified through the programme monitoring work.

Evaluation and Learning:

• Take lead in conducting internal evaluations, assessments, tracer studies and other relevant special studies on periodic basis.
• Facilitate quarterly program reviews against the set KPIs and draft program review reports to EGF management and partners.
• Developing terms of reference(s), scope of works, selection, and supervision of external service providers/consultants.
• Coordinate external program evaluations and assessments and ensure learning is understood and disseminated to all the relevant stakeholders.
• Coordinate the Identification and documentation of result-oriented case studies, success stories and other qualitative progress reporting methods periodically.
• Champion the application of participatory research/ appraisal in conducting social research for monitoring and evaluation purpose for the foundation programs.
• Organize and conduct capacity enhancement forums for the relevant program staff in the performance of monitoring and evaluation activities.
• Represent the MERL department and the foundation whenever called upon in external meeting and forums with stakeholders.
• Regularly review and improve the MERL system by seeking stakeholder inputs and through consultations with MERL practitioners in other organizations.
• Lead the program team in periodic program reviews and facilitating lessons learned workshops.
• Provide technical support and build capacity of staff through organizing and facilitating tailor made training opportunities.
• Mentor and coach junior MERL staff within the department aimed at improved performance and enhanced staff motivation.
• Contribute to a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
• In collaboration with the other MERL staff, plan and conduct internal program quality assessments including periodic data quality assessments.

Qualifications

• A Master’s degree in either monitoring and evaluation, social statistics, project planning and management, development studies or related course.
• Relevant professional certifications and training in monitoring and evaluation and project cycle management.
• Practical knowledge of using data analysis softwares such as; SPSS, Python, STATA and NVivo.
• Possess and demonstrate leadership skills

Competences

• Demonstrates high levels of integrity and ethical standards.
• Proactive and works under minimal supervision.
• Ability to multitask.
• Ability to meet strict deadlines.
• Teamwork and collaboration
• Attentive to details.

Desired skills

• Demonstrate understanding of monitoring and evaluation for donor funded programmes and especially in the education sector.
• Over 5 years progressive experience in the field of monitoring and evaluation.
• Hands on experience in setting MERL systems and frameworks
• Familiarity with new trends in the MERL field preferably in the development sector.
• Experience in conducting program evaluations, including designing data collection tools/instruments, data visualization and presentation and successfully drafting MERL technical reports.