Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning Specialist (MEAL)

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is an agency that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has over 194 member countries and works in more than 130 countries worldwide. The organization aims to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. FAO's mission is to help eliminate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition, make agriculture, forestry, and fisheries more productive and sustainable, reduce rural poverty, and enable inclusive and efficient agricultural and food systems. In Sudan, FAO assists the government in formulating policies, programs, and projects to address the root causes of hunger and malnutrition, develop agricultural, fisheries, and forestry sectors, and utilize environmental and natural resources sustainably.

Job Overview:
The Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning Specialist (MEAL) plays a crucial role in enhancing the effectiveness of FAO's field programs and projects in Sudan. This position is designed for a professional who will contribute to the development and improvement of comprehensive monitoring and evaluation strategies that align with FAO's objectives. The MEAL Specialist will work closely with a multi-disciplinary team to ensure that all projects are evaluated effectively, and that lessons learned are integrated into future planning and implementation. The role requires a proactive approach to developing a results-based MEAL framework that encompasses all individual projects, ensuring that they meet their objectives and contribute to the overall mission of FAO in Sudan. The specialist will also be responsible for capacity development of FAO staff and partners, ensuring that they are equipped with the necessary tools and knowledge to implement MEAL practices effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The MEAL Specialist will have a wide range of responsibilities, including but not limited to: developing and maintaining a comprehensive MEAL framework for the Country Programme Framework; leading project evaluations through managing baseline and end-line surveys, mid-term reviews, and final evaluations; designing and leading baseline surveys to assist project teams in setting benchmark values; establishing grievance mechanisms and overseeing their implementation; assisting the Programme Unit with project formulation related to MEAL; providing capacity development for FAO staff and partners; developing MEAL tools for data collection and reporting; overseeing all MEAL activities and ensuring effective implementation; establishing beneficiary accountability systems; monitoring project activities and providing feedback for improvement; undertaking field visits to support project implementation; identifying lessons learned from evaluations and integrating them into knowledge management efforts; participating in UN MEAL coordination structures; and performing any other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in development studies, statistics, agriculture, economics, or related fields. Those with a bachelor's degree must have two additional years of relevant professional experience. A minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in monitoring and evaluation in humanitarian and/or development contexts is required, along with strong analytical and reporting skills. Candidates should also have a working knowledge (level C) of English, as it is essential for communication and reporting purposes.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in relevant fields such as development studies, statistics, agriculture, or economics. For candidates with a bachelor's degree, it is necessary to have additional professional experience to compensate for the lack of an advanced degree. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of monitoring and evaluation in the context of agricultural and development projects.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in monitoring and evaluation, particularly in humanitarian and development contexts. This experience should include a strong background in analytical and reporting skills, as well as practical experience in managing evaluations and developing MEAL frameworks. Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record of working effectively in diverse teams and managing multiple projects simultaneously.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English (level C) is mandatory for this position. Additionally, having knowledge of a second official language of the Organization, such as French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, or Russian, is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
This position is likely to be full-time and may involve working under tight deadlines. The role may require international travel to various field offices to support project implementation and MEAL activities. Candidates should be prepared for a dynamic work environment that requires flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with FAO's policies and standards, and the organization is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.