Global MEAL Specialist

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, NRC operates in 40 countries, providing life-saving and long-term assistance to millions of people each year. The organization is committed to upholding the rights of refugees and internally displaced persons, ensuring they receive the support they need to rebuild their lives. NRC's mission is to promote the inclusion of displaced people within national and local systems, enabling them to access essential services and exercise their rights. The organization emphasizes a collaborative approach, working alongside local actors and influencing legislation and policy to create sustainable solutions for those affected by displacement.

Job Overview:
The Global MEAL Specialist position is a pivotal role within NRC, focusing on the design and implementation of the Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) framework for the flagship initiative funded by the IKEA Foundation, titled 'Inclusion as a Pathway to Self-reliance.' This initiative aims to support displaced individuals by addressing systemic barriers to their inclusion in local systems. The specialist will lead the assessment of these barriers, develop a comprehensive learning agenda, and ensure that actionable evidence is generated through a robust MEAL plan. The role requires a blend of strategic technical leadership and hands-on support to country offices, ensuring alignment with global MEAL systems and compliance with donor standards. The specialist will also be responsible for conceptualizing MEAL approaches that measure the impact of advocacy, policy influence, and systems-level change, thereby enhancing the quality and effectiveness of NRC's global programs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Global MEAL Specialist will have a wide range of responsibilities, including:

• Collaborating with program teams to identify evidence and learning needs related to the inclusion of displaced people, particularly in the context of NRC's role as an enabler.
• Leading the development of the learning agenda and MEAL plan for the initiative, ensuring it addresses identified evidence needs.
• Mapping external evidence and resources relevant to the learning agenda.
• Developing and piloting methodologies and tools to assess systemic barriers to inclusion, ensuring these are informed by existing tools and practices in the sector.
• Facilitating the adaptation of the project's Theory of Change based on assessment findings, involving relevant stakeholders.
• Managing the MEAL plan and learning agenda, coordinating activities and learning moments.
• Developing and reviewing qualitative and quantitative approaches for program monitoring and measuring effectiveness.
• Supporting data collection processes, including baselines and evaluations.
• Providing technical oversight for evaluations and research related to the initiative. 1
• Ensuring MEAL data is consolidated and analyzed for reporting purposes. 1
• Building capacity and providing ongoing technical support to country offices and partners. 1
• Conducting data analysis and synthesizing evidence for decision-making and advocacy. 1
• Compiling and disseminating best practices and lessons learned from project implementation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Global MEAL Specialist position must possess a minimum of 8 years of relevant leadership, management, or advisory experience within the humanitarian field, specifically in MEAL and displacement contexts. Extensive experience in delivering MEAL in complex and volatile environments is essential. Candidates should have expertise in both quantitative and qualitative methods, with a proven track record of developing global approaches to quality monitoring. Experience in leading assessments to inform program design and evaluation processes is required, along with strong project management skills. A high level of understanding of organizational learning and the role of MEAL in evidencing results is crucial. Candidates should also demonstrate a commitment to providing technical leadership and working collaboratively with colleagues, including capacity building.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for the Global MEAL Specialist role. Candidates should ideally hold a master's degree in a related field such as social sciences, international development, or humanitarian studies. Advanced training or certifications in monitoring and evaluation methodologies will be considered an advantage, as will any specialized training related to MEAL frameworks and approaches.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in the humanitarian sector, particularly in MEAL roles. Candidates should have a minimum of 8 years of experience in leadership or advisory positions, with a focus on MEAL in displacement contexts. Experience in developing and implementing MEAL frameworks in complex environments is critical, as is familiarity with monitoring and evaluating advocacy and policy change efforts. Candidates should also have a strong background in quantitative analysis and data visualization.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and verbal, is mandatory for this position. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for effective collaboration with diverse stakeholders. While English is the primary language required, knowledge of additional languages relevant to the regions of operation, such as Swahili or Arabic, would be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
The Global MEAL Specialist position is based in Oslo, Norway, with a contract duration of 2 years. The role may require travel of approximately 30-40% to various project locations, including Kenya and South Sudan. The position is classified as Grade 9 on NRC’s Resident salary scale, with accompanying terms and conditions. NRC is committed to diversity and inclusion, and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds. The organization emphasizes a culture of empowerment, encouraging employees to share ideas and take responsibility. NRC also prioritizes safeguarding and expects all employees to contribute to a safe environment for all.