Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) Manager

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded on the belief that a better world is possible. Established to address the challenges faced by communities in disaster and hardship, Mercy Corps operates in over 40 countries worldwide. The organization partners with local communities to implement bold solutions that help people overcome adversity and build stronger, more resilient communities. Their mission is to alleviate suffering, poverty, and oppression by helping people build secure, productive, and just communities. Mercy Corps is committed to fostering sustainable development and resilience in the face of climate change and conflict, ensuring that their programs are impactful and aligned with the needs of the communities they serve.

Job Overview:
The Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Manager position is crucial for the successful implementation of the EU-funded SMART program, which aims to enhance security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and resilience among rural communities in Sudan. This role is designed to provide leadership and technical support to the MEL function of the program, addressing critical gaps identified during implementation. The MEL Manager will oversee the development and execution of the MEL Plan, ensuring that monitoring, evaluation, learning, reporting, and accountability processes are conducted to high standards. The position requires strategic leadership, hands-on technical support, and collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure that the program meets donor requirements and achieves its objectives. The MEL Manager will also be responsible for ensuring that evidence and learning are systematically integrated into program decision-making, thereby improving the quality and impact of program implementation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The MEL Manager will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Ensuring compliance of the MEL system with Mercy Corps and EU policies;
• Continuously refining the MEL system to provide actionable evidence for program implementation;
• Facilitating the implementation of MEL activities as outlined in the MEL Plan;
• Collaborating with internal and external partners to ensure operational success;
• Leading the collection, management, and analysis of quantitative and qualitative data;
• Conducting regular site visits to deepen understanding of program activities;
• Supporting the design and application of qualitative research methodologies;
• Leading and coordinating program evaluations and assessments;
• Developing and implementing the program's Learning Agenda; 1
• Supporting timely and accurate reporting; 1
• Managing data systems and ensuring data security; 1
• Building the capacity of the MEL team and partners through training and coaching; 1
• Integrating safeguarding principles into all MEL activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in social sciences, monitoring and evaluation, statistics, international development, or a related field. A Master's degree in a relevant discipline is preferred. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in program monitoring, evaluation, learning, and adaptation. Proven experience in leading MEL for development and early recovery programs is essential, along with expertise in qualitative research methodologies and mixed-methods research and evaluation. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in quantitative data analysis and have a strong understanding of responsible data practices and data protection requirements. Excellent written and oral communication skills in English are required, as well as strong interpersonal, organizational, and team management skills.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor's degree in social sciences, monitoring and evaluation, statistics, international development, or a related field. A Master's degree in a relevant discipline is preferred, as it provides a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in monitoring and evaluation within development contexts.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in program monitoring, evaluation, learning, and adaptation. Candidates should have experience designing and managing MEL systems, leading evaluations and assessments, and managing MEL teams. Experience in building staff and partner MEL capacity is also essential, particularly in the context of development and early recovery programs.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent written and oral communication skills. Additional languages may be beneficial but are not specified as mandatory for this position.

Additional Notes:
This position is designed as a remote role with periodic travel to program locations in South and Central Darfur on an 8-week cycle. The role requires up to 40% travel to support country programs, which may include travel to insecure locations. Housing for this role is in individual accommodations with access to good medical services. The organization promotes ongoing learning, allowing team members to dedicate 5% of their time to personal and professional growth activities. Mercy Corps is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding and ethical practices in all its operations.