Monitoring and Evaluation Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization established to assist people forced to flee their homes due to conflict and disaster. With a workforce of approximately 15,000 staff members, NRC operates in 40 countries worldwide, providing life-saving assistance and long-term support to millions of individuals each year. NRC Afghanistan is particularly focused on addressing the needs of displaced populations within the country, maintaining a presence in 11 provinces and employing over 600 staff. The organization is committed to protecting and assisting vulnerable groups, including women, children, and the elderly, and aims to provide comprehensive support across various sectors, including education, protection, and emergency response.

Job Overview:
The Monitoring and Evaluation Manager will play a pivotal role in leading the strategic direction and quality assurance of monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) within the Afghanistan mission. This position requires the design and implementation of effective strategies, procedures, and budgets that will generate the necessary evidence and learning to inform programmatic and strategic decision-making. The role holder is expected to be action-oriented, execution-driven, and possess strong analytical skills, with a hands-on approach to leadership. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring that the MEL systems are robust and responsive to the contextual challenges faced in Afghanistan, particularly in light of the complex humanitarian situation following the Taliban takeover in August 202

• The position demands a proactive approach to developing and implementing monitoring and evaluation plans that align with NRC's mission and objectives in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Monitoring and Evaluation Manager include:

• Line management of MEL staff, including performance management, workforce planning, recruitment, induction, and development.
• Providing technical support for monitoring, evaluation, and learning initiatives across the organization.
• Leading the development of MEL strategies that respond to contextual challenges and align with NRC's objectives.
• Designing and overseeing the implementation of MEL systems and processes to ensure quality and effectiveness.
• Contributing technical input to program monitoring, evaluation, and learning plans.
• Planning and ensuring quality control of monitoring and evaluation activities.
• Collaborating with program teams to integrate MEL into project design and implementation.
• Generating evidence and learning to inform programmatic and strategic decision-making.
• Engaging with stakeholders to ensure that MEL activities are relevant and responsive to the needs of affected populations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess extensive experience in monitoring, evaluation, and research management, particularly in the design, implementation, and oversight of large-to-mid-scale international projects or programs. Technical expertise in program evaluation methodologies and approaches is essential, along with a proven track record of implementing these methodologies effectively. Advanced skills in qualitative and quantitative data analysis and the use of relevant tools are required. Candidates should also have experience working in complex and volatile contexts, with specific knowledge of the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan being a significant advantage. Fluency in English, both written and verbal, is mandatory.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should hold an advanced degree in Economics, Research Methods, Social Sciences, or a related field. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of monitoring and evaluation in humanitarian contexts and for effectively leading MEL initiatives within the organization.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience in monitoring and evaluation, particularly within the humanitarian sector. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to manage MEL processes and lead teams effectively in challenging environments. Experience working in Afghanistan or similar contexts will be highly regarded, as it provides valuable insights into the specific challenges and needs of the population served by NRC.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as all communication and documentation will be conducted in English. While not mandatory, proficiency in local languages spoken in Afghanistan may be considered an asset, as it can enhance communication with local stakeholders and beneficiaries.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Kabul, Afghanistan, and is offered on a 12-month contract basis. The role involves approximately 30% travel within the country. NRC offers a competitive salary and benefits package, aligned with its National Salary Scale. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from candidates of all backgrounds. It is important to note that this position is only open to candidates who have the legal eligibility to work in Afghanistan, as NRC is unable to provide work permits or visa sponsorships.