Technical Advisor II, MEAL – Regional Focal Point (EMEA)

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established to save, protect, and transform lives in need, CRS operates in more than 100 countries worldwide. The organization is committed to improving the lives of the poor and vulnerable, regardless of race, religion, or nationality. CRS's work encompasses various sectors, including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. The agency's mission is driven by a collaborative and mission-oriented culture, welcoming individuals from diverse faiths and secular traditions who share its values. CRS is dedicated to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, reflecting its commitment to the rights and dignity of all people. The organization has a significant presence in various countries, employing a diverse workforce to address global humanitarian needs.

Job Overview:
The Technical Advisor II (TA II) position is a global remote role focused on providing technical assistance, guidance, and support in monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning (MEAL) at both regional and global levels. The TA II will act as a MEAL focal point for the Europe, Middle East, and Asia (EMEA) region, specifically addressing the MEAL technical assistance needs of countries within Europe and the Middle East. This role involves liaising with other MEAL colleagues to support the needs of EMEA countries and providing technical assistance to countries in other regions as necessary. The TA II's work will align with CRS program quality principles and standards, MEAL Policies and Procedures, donor guidelines, and industry best practices, ultimately contributing to the delivery of high-quality programming for the poor and vulnerable. The position requires a proactive approach to addressing MEAL challenges and ensuring effective program implementation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Technical Advisor II will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including serving as the MEAL focal point for EMEA countries seeking technical assistance. This involves providing remote and in-country technical support, maintaining ongoing communication with various stakeholders, and ensuring high-quality project MEAL coverage. The TA II will contribute to strategic growth opportunities by providing technical MEAL guidance for proposal development and project design, ensuring compliance with donor MEAL requirements, and supporting the design of MEAL systems and evaluations. Additionally, the TA II will contribute to agency-wide strategies and best practices in MEAL, facilitate capacity strengthening initiatives for staff and partners, and engage in knowledge management and learning activities. Establishing and maintaining relationships with donors and peer organizations is also a key responsibility, along with participating in MEAL-related forums to share best practices and promote CRS's work.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of technical principles and concepts in MEAL, with a proven track record in successful business development activities. Excellent relationship management skills are essential, as the role requires influencing and gaining buy-in from diverse individuals across various geographical and cultural settings. The TA II should demonstrate strong strategic, analytical, problem-solving, and systems thinking skills, along with proficiency in MS Office and digital data collection tools. Strong written and oral communication skills are necessary, as well as the ability to work effectively in challenging contexts. Proactive, resourceful, and results-oriented individuals will excel in this role.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in international development, statistics, economics, education, or a related field is required for this position. Candidates with a Master’s degree in a related field are preferred, as well as those with technical or academic publications. The educational background should support the technical expertise needed for MEAL functions and responsibilities.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of eight years of work experience in international development and/or MEAL, with progressive responsibilities ideally within an international NGO. This experience should include at least three years as a MEAL technical advisor or program manager, with a strong background in working overseas, particularly in Europe and the Middle East. Experience in fragile contexts and emergency response activities is highly valued, along with demonstrated experience in developing curricula, tools, and evidence to support MEAL initiatives. Proficiency in project monitoring and evaluation using both quantitative and qualitative approaches is essential, as is experience in business development and representing the organization in meetings with various stakeholders.

Languages:
Written and verbal fluency in English is required for this position, with knowledge of Arabic preferred. The ability to communicate effectively in both languages will enhance the TA II's capacity to engage with diverse stakeholders and support MEAL initiatives across the EMEA region.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time, remote role that requires candidates to be willing to work during Europe and Middle East business hours. Candidates based in countries where CRS has a legal presence are preferred. The role may involve travel up to 35% to Europe and Middle East countries and other locations as needed. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package for U.S.-based staff, including medical, dental, life insurance, vision, and a generous retirement savings plan. Benefits for candidates employed outside the U.S. will be based on the country of employment. The successful candidate is expected to adhere to CRS's Code of Conduct and participate in safeguarding initiatives.