Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Advisor I

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions for human development. Established in 1980, FHI 360 operates in more than 60 countries and has a workforce of over 4,000 employees. The organization focuses on various sectors including health, education, and economic development, and is committed to evidence-based practices and innovative solutions to address global challenges.

Job Overview:
The Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Advisor I will play a crucial role in providing technical guidance and overseeing the execution of day-to-day MEL activities for the STrengthening Infectious disease DEtection Systems (STRIDES) project in Malawi. This position is pivotal in implementing policies and processes that ensure quality data collection, analysis, and reporting, which are essential for supporting evidence-based decision-making. The MEL Advisor I will collaborate closely with MEL and technical teams at the headquarters to ensure that FHI 360 fulfills its mission as an evidence-driven, adaptive, and effective actor on the global stage. The role demands strong communication and teamwork skills, as well as the ability to manage contributions from individuals and teams across various projects and time zones. This position is ideal for creative and passionate individuals who are committed to development and have a proven track record of integrating learning and adaptive management into development programs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The MEL Advisor I will be responsible for providing overall technical direction and guidance to project staff to support planning, implementation, and reporting against the STRIDES Activity, Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning Plan (AMELP). Key duties include leading MEL activities and sub-activities, assisting with project implementation, and ensuring quality assurance for monitoring, evaluation, and learning. The advisor will monitor and maintain project protocols, instruments, data sets, manuals, training materials, and reports related to monitoring and evaluation. They will work closely with the team to ensure that the AMELP implementation remains technically sound and adheres to FHI 360’s strategy and standard operating procedures. Additionally, the MEL Advisor I will provide technical support in the development and dissemination of tools, materials, and reports, and will help in the development and review of work plans. They will also be responsible for developing and implementing MEL training and capacity-building activities, identifying strategies to address training gaps, and may supervise or provide technical guidance to staff members locally and in the region. The advisor will ensure quality assurance on MEL deliverables and reported data, and will participate in client/funder meetings, drafting report presentations as necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess in-depth knowledge of MEL concepts, practices, and procedures, along with experience providing technical support for research studies. A deep understanding of MEL quality standards is essential, as well as proficiency with database management software and relevant databases and data information systems in key government stakeholders in Malawi. The ideal candidate should have excellent organizational and analytical skills, demonstrated project management skills, and proficiency in using Microsoft Office Suite. They must also have the ability to analyze and interpret data, identify errors, and prepare reports, as well as the ability to solve problems and implement corrective actions as needed. Strong writing and verbal communication skills are mandatory, and candidates must be able to manage their own work to job and performance standards.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree or its international equivalent in Monitoring and Evaluation, Public Health, International Development, Economic Development, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of monitoring and evaluation in health programs and for effectively contributing to the STRIDES project.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 8 years of relevant experience in developing and implementing monitoring and evaluation methodologies, including impact evaluations, and managing data collection activities for health programs. Documented experience providing MEL technical leadership and capacity building for health programs is preferred, particularly in the context of global health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security. Prior work experience in a non-governmental organization (NGO), government agency, or private organization is also essential, along with experience working with diverse teams and applying research-to-practice principles to support program implementation.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as the ability to read, write, and speak English is essential for effective communication within the organization and with external stakeholders. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, particularly if they relate to the local context in Malawi.

Additional Notes:
This position may involve supervising junior staff members and coordinating workflow while setting individual priorities. The MEL Advisor I will work under general guidelines for completion and accuracy as determined by the supervisor and will accomplish results through lower-level staff managers or experienced staff who exercise independence in their assignments. The role may require travel, estimated at 10% to 25%, and will be based in a typical office environment. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer, committed to preventing any type of abuse, exploitation, and harassment in its work environments and programs. The organization offers a competitive benefits package and promotes a healthy work/life balance.