Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning Manager at Catholic Medical Mission Board - CMMB

Under the leadership of the Country Director, the MERL Manager will lead planning, day- to- day monitoring, evaluation, research and learning activities, analysis and reporting management of consultants and special studies as well.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership:
• Provide vision and strategic direction for Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning (MERL) across CMMB Kenya’s program portfolio.
• Lead the integration of MERL into program design, implementation, and resource mobilization, ensuring alignment with organizational priorities, donor requirements, and national frameworks.
• Advise senior leadership on evidence-based strategies for program adaptation, scale-up, and policy engagement, positioning CMMB Kenya as a thought leader in health systems strengthening.
• Support proposal development and resource mobilization efforts by contributing to results frameworks, theories of change, and robust MERL plans.
• Technical Oversight:
• Develop and oversee the implementation of comprehensive MERL frameworks, including performance, outcome, and impact indicators.
• Design and roll out digital and innovative data collection systems, ensuring high-quality, real-time, and actionable data.
• Ensure data management systems are interoperable with national platforms (e.g., DHIS2) and that data standards meet donor and global reporting requirements.
• Oversee high-quality analysis of qualitative and quantitative data to generate insights that drive program performance and accountability.
• Produce and validate timely, accurate, and high-quality donor, government, and organizational reports.
• Research & Learning:
• Lead operational and implementation research to generate evidence for improved program effectiveness, innovation, and policy dialogue.
• Develop knowledge products including case studies, peer-reviewed articles, policy briefs, and technical papers to strengthen CMMB Kenya’s knowledge leadership.
• Convene communities of practice, learning events, and cross-program reflection sessions to embed a culture of evidence-based learning and adaptive management.
• Track and disseminate global best practices in MERL and ensure CMMB Kenya leverages cutting-edge methodologies and technologies.
• Build the capacity of staff and partners in MERL, providing mentorship, training, and ongoing coaching to strengthen organizational and partner capabilities.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Advanced degree (master’s preferred) in Monitoring & Evaluation, Statistics, Public Health, Social Sciences, Development Studies, or a related field.
• Professional certification or postgraduate training in Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning (MERL) is highly desirable.
• At least 8 years of progressive experience in designing and implementing MERL systems in complex development and/or health programs with international NGOs, multilateral agencies, or government institutions.
• Proven track record in developing MERL frameworks, results chains, and innovative data collection methodologies for large-scale, multi-sectoral programs.
• Strong expertise in data management systems, digital platforms, and the use of advanced statistical and qualitative analysis software (e.g., STATA, R, NVivo, SPSS).
• Demonstrated experience in commissioning, designing, and/or managing operational research, evaluations, and learning initiatives.