Programme Analyst, Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning (MEL) and Data

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization emphasizes the importance of data and evidence-based policies to achieve its goals, particularly in the context of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) Programme of Action. UNFPA's work is guided by its Strategic Plan for 2026-2029, which aims to ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health and rights, with a focus on marginalized populations and sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The Programme Analyst, Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning (MEL) and Data plays a vital role within the UNFPA South Africa Country Office, specifically within the programmes team. This position is responsible for the effective design, implementation, and oversight of the Planning, Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (PMEL) framework. The Analyst's work is crucial in strengthening the evidence base for UNFPA's initiatives aimed at achieving three Transformative Results: ending preventable maternal deaths, fulfilling unmet needs for family planning, and eliminating gender-based violence and harmful practices. The role involves ensuring systematic collection, analysis, and utilization of data and results for adaptive management, accountability, and strategic decision-making. The Analyst will work closely with the Country Representative and is expected to promote a culture of learning and capacity building among partners and staff.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Analyst has several key responsibilities, including: A. Programme Planning and Design: Assisting in the development of the Country Programme Document (CPD) and annual work plans, ensuring alignment with national priorities and UNFPA's strategic plan. Supporting the formulation of measurable indicators and targets for all programme components. Contributing to the design of logical frameworks and theories of change for projects. Providing technical input for programme documents and proposals. B. Monitoring and Reporting: Leading the implementation of the monitoring plan, ensuring timely data collection and analysis. Developing data management systems to track programme progress. Preparing high-quality progress reports for stakeholders. Conducting field monitoring visits to support implementing partners. C. Evaluation and Learning: Supporting the planning and management of programme evaluations. Facilitating the dissemination of evaluation findings to inform programme adjustments. Promoting a culture of learning through workshops and knowledge sharing. D. Capacity Building and Partnerships: Providing technical assistance to partners and staff on PMEL methodologies. Collaborating with national statistical offices to strengthen data systems. Participating in UN inter-agency PMEL groups to harmonize approaches. E. General Support: Standing in for other team members as required and carrying out additional duties as assigned by UNFPA leadership.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an Advanced University Degree (Master's Degree or equivalent) in Social Sciences, Demography, Statistics, Public Health, Development Studies, Economics, International Relations, Public Administration, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of 2 years of progressively responsible professional experience in planning, monitoring, and evaluation, preferably in international development, population, or public health, is required. Candidates should demonstrate experience in designing and implementing PMEL frameworks, strong analytical skills, and familiarity with various data collection methodologies. Proficiency in data analysis software and knowledge of UN results-based management principles are also essential.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is an Advanced University Degree (Master's Degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Social Sciences, Demography, Statistics, Public Health, Development Studies, Economics, International Relations, or Public Administration. This advanced degree is crucial for understanding the complexities of monitoring and evaluation in the context of international development and public health.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of progressively responsible professional experience in planning, monitoring, and evaluation. This experience should preferably be in the field of international development, population, or public health. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in designing and implementing PMEL frameworks, including logical frameworks and results matrices, as well as experience in conducting or supporting programme evaluations.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, professional working knowledge of one or more official South African languages is considered an advantage. A working knowledge of another UN Official Language is also an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration in a diverse work environment.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other applicable benefits. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance. The organization encourages applications from women, individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to applicants with disabilities upon request to support their participation in the recruitment process. UNFPA is committed to equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all, regardless of personal characteristics.