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 in shaping policies and programs that address the needs of women, adolescents, and marginalized populations. UNFPA's work is guided by the principles of human rights and gender equality, and it aims to achieve universal access to sexual and reproductive health by 2030, in line with the goals of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD).

Job Overview:
The Programme Analyst, Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning (MEL) and Data is a vital member of the UNFPA South Africa Country Office's programmes team. This position is responsible for providing professional support in the design, implementation, and oversight of the Planning, Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (PMEL) framework. The Analyst plays a crucial role in strengthening the evidence base for UNFPA's initiatives aimed at achieving three Transformative Results: ending preventable maternal deaths, addressing unmet needs for family planning, and eliminating gender-based violence and harmful practices. The role involves ensuring that data and results are systematically collected, analyzed, and utilized for adaptive management, accountability, and strategic decision-making. The Analyst will work under the direct supervision of the UNFPA Country Representative and is expected to promote a culture of learning by disseminating findings and best practices while building the PMEL capacity of partners and country office staff.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Analyst, Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning and Data has several key responsibilities: A. Programme Planning and Design: Assist in developing and refining the Country Programme Document (CPD) and annual work plans, ensuring alignment with national priorities and UNFPA's strategic plan. Support the formulation of measurable indicators, targets, and baselines for all programme components. Contribute to designing logical frameworks and theories of change for projects. Provide technical input for programme documents and proposals. B. Monitoring and Reporting: Lead the implementation of the monitoring plan, ensuring timely data collection and analysis. Develop data management systems to track programme progress against KPIs. Prepare high-quality progress reports for stakeholders. Conduct field monitoring visits to provide technical guidance to partners. C. Evaluation and Learning: Support the planning and management of programme evaluations, ensuring quality and utility. Facilitate the dissemination of evaluation findings to inform programme adjustments. Promote a culture of learning through workshops and knowledge-sharing events. D. Capacity Building and Partnerships: Provide technical assistance to partners and staff on PMEL methodologies. Collaborate with national statistical offices to strengthen data systems. Participate in UN inter-agency PMEL groups to harmonize approaches. E. General Support: Stand in for other Programme team members as required and carry out any other 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 have demonstrated 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 includes 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, ideally within the fields of international development, population, or public health. Candidates should have a proven track record in designing and implementing PMEL frameworks and should be adept at collecting, analyzing, and interpreting both quantitative and qualitative data. Experience in conducting evaluations and familiarity with data analysis software is also necessary.

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. Knowledge of another UN Official Language is also beneficial, enhancing communication within the international context of the role.

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, LGBTQIA+ individuals, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process. UNFPA is committed to equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all candidates, regardless of personal characteristics.