MEAL Manager

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established to serve those in need, CRS operates in more than 100 countries, providing relief and development assistance without regard to race, religion, or nationality. The organization focuses on various areas including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. CRS is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, and it welcomes candidates from diverse backgrounds who share its values and commitment to service.

Job Overview:
The MEAL Manager will oversee the Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) component of the Country Program (CP) for Early Recovery programming in the Philippines. This role involves designing and implementing projects that align with CRS's mission to serve the poor and vulnerable. The MEAL Manager will ensure high-quality programming by managing all MEAL activities throughout the project lifecycle, including design, implementation, and close-out phases. The position requires effective management of project teams and partner staff, ensuring they utilize appropriate systems and tools. The MEAL Manager will also be responsible for coaching team members, contributing to recruitment processes, and managing performance evaluations. Additionally, the role involves analyzing project performance data, identifying issues, and facilitating participatory processes to address challenges. The MEAL Manager will play a key role in project design and proposal development, as well as in strengthening partnerships relevant to Early Recovery initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Manage and implement all MEAL activities throughout project cycles, ensuring alignment with CRS program quality principles and donor requirements.
• Supervise project team and partner staff, providing coaching and support for individual development plans.
• Conduct performance management for direct reports and foster a positive team dynamic.
• Analyze and evaluate project performance data in accordance with MEAL policy.
• Identify and address implementation challenges through participatory processes.
• Act as a resource in project design and proposal development, taking on additional responsibilities as needed.
• Coordinate capacity assessments and technical assistance needs of partner organizations.
• Monitor financial and material resources relevant to project needs, ensuring efficient use of resources.
• Engage with local and international partners, including UN agencies and NGOs, to enhance project implementation.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in international development, International Relations, or a related field in Emergency Response and Early Recovery.
• Minimum of 2-3 years of relevant field-based experience in managing or coordinating projects, preferably with an international NGO.
• Experience in WASH, Shelter, and Livelihoods interventions is advantageous.
• Master’s degree and project management experience in Emergency Response/Early Recovery are highly desirable.
• MEAL skills and experience are preferred.
• Proficiency in MS Windows and MS Office applications, as well as information management systems.
• Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and relationship management skills.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in international development, International Relations, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree is preferred, particularly in areas related to project management or emergency response.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 2-3 years of relevant field-based experience in coordinating or managing projects that are light to moderately complex. Experience with international NGOs is preferred, particularly in areas related to emergency response and early recovery.

Languages:
Fluency in Filipino and English is required. Proficiency in additional languages may be beneficial but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is contingent upon donor funding. The role is based in Manila and requires willingness to travel up to 60% in project areas. The position includes supervisory responsibilities and involves working closely with various internal and external stakeholders. CRS is committed to safeguarding program participants and ensuring a safe working environment for all staff.