MERL Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
Plan International is a rights-based development and humanitarian organization that has been working for better lives for all children for over 80 years. Established in 1937, the organization operates in more than 70 countries worldwide, focusing on advancing children's rights and equality for girls. Plan International is independent of government and has no political or religious affiliations. The organization aims to reach 200 million girls over five years, ensuring they can learn, lead, decide, and thrive, contributing to the sustainable development goals, particularly those related to gender equality. In Egypt, Plan International has been active since 1981, working in ten of the 27 governorates, including major cities such as Cairo and Alexandria. The organization implements programs designed to improve the lives of marginalized children and their families, with a focus on gender transformation and community engagement.

Job Overview:
The MERL Coordinator role is crucial for overseeing the monitoring and evaluation (M&E) framework for various projects and programs within Plan International. This position is responsible for ensuring that activities are effectively tracked, outcomes are accurately measured, and insights are generated to inform decision-making and enhance future performance. The MERL Coordinator will drive the implementation of Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning (MERL) initiatives, ensuring systematic monitoring, evaluation, and documentation of programs and projects. This role supports evidence-based decision-making, improves program quality, and maximizes the organization's ability to achieve its development and humanitarian objectives. The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders to align MERL frameworks with organizational priorities and donor requirements, establishing clear indicators and milestones to measure progress and impact effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The MERL Coordinator will be responsible for several key activities, including:

• Planning and Framework Development: Developing and implementing MERL frameworks, plans, and systems across all programmatic areas and projects, ensuring alignment with organizational priorities and donor requirements.
• Tool Design and Methodology: Designing and implementing data collection tools and methodologies, providing guidance on child-friendly and gender-adapted approaches, and incorporating innovative data collection methods.
• Evaluation and Assessment: Leading and supporting baseline assessments, mid-term evaluations, and final evaluations, analyzing quantitative and qualitative data to assess program effectiveness and sustainability.
• Reporting and Dissemination: Synthesizing evaluation findings into comprehensive reports and presentations for stakeholders, representing the organization in MERL-related forums.
• Integration and Collaboration: Collaborating with program teams to integrate MERL activities into project cycles and promoting a culture of learning and adaptive management.
• Capacity Building: Providing technical assistance and training to partners on MERL-related skills and competencies.
• Safeguarding and Inclusion: Ensuring compliance with safeguarding policies and promoting gender equality and inclusion in project design and implementation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong analytical skills, experience in monitoring and evaluation, and a solid understanding of research methodologies. They should have excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. Familiarity with data analysis software and tools is essential, along with a commitment to gender equality and child safeguarding principles. The ideal candidate should also demonstrate a proactive approach to problem-solving and a strong ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in social sciences, development studies, or a related field is required. A master's degree in a relevant discipline is preferred. Candidates should have a strong academic background that supports their understanding of monitoring and evaluation practices, as well as research methodologies.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in monitoring and evaluation, preferably within the development or humanitarian sectors. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing M&E frameworks and conducting evaluations, as well as experience in capacity building and training.

Languages:
Fluency in Arabic is mandatory, as the role is based in Egypt. Proficiency in English is highly desirable, as it will facilitate communication with international stakeholders and the dissemination of reports and findings. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Assiut, Egypt, and requires 100% office attendance. The vacancy is open to Egyptian Nationals only. The closing date for applications is 3rd February 202

• Plan International is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring that all applicants are treated fairly and without discrimination. The organization emphasizes safeguarding children and young people, and all candidates will undergo pre-employment checks in accordance with Plan International's policies.