Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Advisor

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit human development organization dedicated to improving lives in a long-lasting way by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Established with a mission to address interrelated development challenges, FHI 360 employs experts across various fields including health, education, nutrition, environment, and economic development. The organization operates in over 50 countries, including Liberia, and has a diverse workforce that collaborates to create impactful solutions. FHI 360 is committed to safeguarding vulnerable populations and ensuring a safe environment for all stakeholders involved in its programs.

Job Overview:
The Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Advisor plays a crucial role in providing technical guidance for the Strengthening Infectious Disease Detection Systems (STRIDES) Activity in Liberia. This position involves overseeing the execution of daily MEL activities, developing and implementing policies and processes, and ensuring quality service delivery through the use of project data for evidence-based decision-making. The MEL Advisor will be responsible for leading the development, operationalization, implementation, and management of MEL systems, tools, and procedures. This includes collecting, collating, analyzing, interpreting, and utilizing data to demonstrate impact and ensure accountability for the Activity's progress. The role also involves supervising technical staff and subcontractors, ensuring alignment with workplan objectives and the Activity MEL Plan (AMELP), and promoting STRIDES as a thought leader in the MEL community in Liberia. The MEL Advisor will contribute to FHI 360’s thought leadership by documenting best practices and fostering a culture of learning and knowledge sharing within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The MEL Advisor will support the design, development, planning, implementation, and reporting against the STRIDES Activity MEL Plan (AMELP). Key responsibilities include developing and managing MEL systems, tools, and procedures to ensure effective data collection and analysis. The advisor will track progress against MEL indicators and targets, ensuring systematic reporting and integration of high-quality quantitative and qualitative methods. They will assess subcontractors' MEL-related data and reporting efforts, build the MEL capacity of STRIDES staff, and lead learning activities and data use initiatives. Additionally, the MEL Advisor will manage relationships with government counterparts and multisectoral partners, strengthen the capacity of health teams and implementing partners in data management, and ensure compliance with donor policies. The role also includes supervising and mentoring staff, overseeing recruitment processes, and supporting the professional development of direct reports.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s Degree or its international equivalent in fields such as Monitoring and Evaluation, Biostatistics, Epidemiology, Public Health, or related disciplines. A Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is also required. The position demands a minimum of 8 years of experience in Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning (MEL), Strategic Information, or public health program management, with a proven track record in designing and evaluating complex health or development programs. Experience in leading multi-sectoral projects funded by international donors and developing technical reports and data visualization products is essential. Candidates should demonstrate expertise in quantitative and qualitative methods for monitoring and evaluation, as well as proficiency with relevant data collection and analysis software.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s Degree or its equivalent in Monitoring and Evaluation, Biostatistics, Epidemiology, Public Health, Health Informatics, Information Systems, Behavioral or Social Sciences, International Development, Human Development, or a related field. This advanced education is crucial for understanding the complexities of MEL practices and their application in public health and development contexts.

Experience:
The MEL Advisor should have a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning (MEL), Strategic Information, or public health program management. This experience should include serving as a senior technical lead or subject matter expert in MEL and Global Health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security programming. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and ensure successful implementation of activities, as well as experience in leading and managing multi-sectoral and multi-country projects funded by international donors.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position. Strong communication skills are essential for effectively exchanging information, presenting recommendations, and building consensus among stakeholders. While English is mandatory, proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly in the context of working with diverse populations and stakeholders in Liberia.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and involves direct supervision of MEL Officers. The work environment is typical of an office setting, with the expectation of spending long hours on a computer and performing repetitive tasks. The role may require travel of 10%-25%. FHI 360 offers a competitive compensation package, with an expected salary range of USD 35,000 - 50,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications. The organization is committed to equal opportunity employment and safeguarding principles, ensuring a safe environment for all employees and beneficiaries.