MEAL Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is a leading humanitarian organization that provides assistance to refugees and internally displaced persons. Established in 1956, DRC operates in over 40 countries worldwide, focusing on protecting the rights of displaced people and providing them with the necessary support to rebuild their lives. The organization employs thousands of staff globally, working tirelessly to deliver humanitarian aid and development programs that address the needs of vulnerable populations. DRC is committed to ensuring that its operations adhere to the highest standards of accountability and effectiveness, striving to improve the quality of its programs through continuous learning and adaptation.

Job Overview:
The MEAL Manager position is a critical managerial role within the Danish Refugee Council's operations in Sudan, specifically under the guidance of the Head of Programs. This role encompasses leading the Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) activities across the country, ensuring that the organization's humanitarian response is evidence-based and aligned with the Core Humanitarian Standards (CHS). The MEAL Manager is tasked with developing and implementing comprehensive M&E strategies that support quality programming and provide a robust evidence base for the impact of DRC's interventions. This includes overseeing the design and execution of M&E methodologies, managing data collection and analysis, and ensuring that findings are effectively communicated to inform program design and strategic decisions. The MEAL Manager will also work closely with various stakeholders, including Area Managers and Project Managers, to enhance program quality and facilitate the adoption of best practices throughout the operational areas in Sudan.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The MEAL Manager will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: leading the design and implementation of monitoring and evaluation methodologies; developing M&E plans and workplans; managing data collection, cleaning, analysis, and reporting; facilitating learning events to capture lessons learned; participating in strategic planning sessions; assisting in the development of project indicators and logical frameworks; coordinating accountability systems; adapting beneficiary feedback mechanisms; ensuring compliance with Core Humanitarian Standards; contributing to the information management strategy; overseeing the development of data management systems; managing a team of MEAL staff; and representing DRC in external coordination forums. The role requires a proactive approach to disseminating knowledge gained through MEAL activities and ensuring that the findings are utilized to improve program quality and effectiveness.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in a relevant field, such as international development, social sciences, statistics, or public health, along with at least four years of relevant experience. Alternatively, a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field combined with a minimum of five years of relevant experience is acceptable. Essential qualifications include a minimum of five years of work experience in monitoring and evaluation, with at least three years in a management role, experience with international NGOs or UN agencies, and familiarity with monitoring and evaluation in sectors such as security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Food Security and Livelihoods (FSL), protection, Shelter, and WASH in emergency contexts. Candidates should also have experience in developing information management systems, participatory assessments, and a clear understanding of Core Humanitarian Standards. Strong analytical and report writing skills in English are required, while knowledge of Arabic is desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in a relevant field, such as international development, social sciences, statistics, or public health. Alternatively, a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field is acceptable if accompanied by significant relevant experience. The educational qualifications should provide a solid foundation in the principles of monitoring and evaluation, data analysis, and humanitarian response, equipping the candidate with the necessary skills to effectively manage MEAL activities within the organization.

Experience:
The MEAL Manager should have a minimum of five years of work experience in the field of monitoring and evaluation, with at least three years in a similar management role. Experience working with international NGOs or UN agencies is essential, particularly in the context of monitoring and evaluation of humanitarian programs. Candidates should have a proven track record of developing and guiding information management systems for large humanitarian programs and experience in participatory assessment and community-based monitoring approaches. Familiarity with the Core Humanitarian Standards and experience in capacity building of staff in MEAL and information management are also important.

Languages:
Excellent communication skills in English are mandatory for this position, as the role involves extensive reporting and collaboration with various stakeholders. Proficiency in Arabic is desirable, as it will facilitate communication with local communities and enhance the effectiveness of MEAL activities in the field.

Additional Notes:
The position is offered on a six-month contract with the possibility of extension, subject to funding and performance evaluations. The salary and conditions will be in accordance with the Danish Refugee Council's Terms of Employment for International staff, and the position is graded at M.F. The start date for this role is immediate, and the duty station is Gedaref, Sudan. The MEAL Manager will report directly to the Head of Programmes and is expected to demonstrate DRC's core competencies, including striving for excellence, collaborating effectively, taking the lead in initiatives, communicating transparently, and demonstrating integrity in all professional conduct.