Head of MEAL Department

Job Posting Organization:
SOLIDARITES INTERNATIONAL (SI) is an international humanitarian aid association that has been operational for over 40 years. The organization is dedicated to providing assistance to populations affected by armed conflicts and natural disasters, focusing on meeting their basic needs for food, water, and shelter. SI is particularly committed to combating diseases linked to unsafe water, which is a leading cause of death globally. The organization operates in 26 countries and employs around 3,200 individuals, including expatriates, national staff, and volunteers, all working with professionalism and respect for cultural norms.

Job Overview:
The Head of MEAL Department is tasked with strengthening the quality, accountability, monitoring, evaluation, and learning of humanitarian programs through robust MEAL systems. This role is crucial for supporting effective monitoring, evidence-based decision-making, accountability to affected populations, ensuring data quality, facilitating program adaptation, and maintaining compliance with both organizational and donor standards. The position is set against a backdrop of complex humanitarian access constraints due to ongoing conflict, insecurity, and public health challenges, including cholera and Ebola outbreaks. The successful candidate will need to navigate these challenges while ensuring the effective implementation of MEAL systems across various operational areas.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Head of MEAL Department include:

• Strengthening the MEAL department at both coordination and field levels by harmonizing systems, tools, processes, and reporting in line with organizational and donor requirements.
• Building the capacity of MEAL and program staff through mentoring, training, supervision, and technical support, with a focus on data quality and accountability.
• Reinforcing and operationalizing Feedback and Complaint Response Mechanisms (FCRM) and integrating community feedback into program activities.
• Enhancing information management, data analysis, and reporting to provide timely and actionable information for decision-making.
• Coordinating with local authorities to facilitate access and operational continuity.
• Managing the challenges posed by high-risk public health environments and logistical constraints.
• Ensuring compliance with health, safety, and infection prevention measures in the field.
• Monitoring and adapting to rapidly changing security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security conditions and operational pressures.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of MEAL systems, methodologies, and tools relevant to humanitarian and emergency response contexts. They should have proven experience in designing and implementing monitoring frameworks, indicator tracking systems, and data collection methodologies. Additionally, experience in developing and managing accountability mechanisms, including FCRM, is essential. Strong information management and data visualization skills are required, with proficiency in tools such as Excel, Kobo, ODK, and Power BI. Candidates should also demonstrate strong interpersonal and communication skills, organizational and planning abilities, and excellent reporting and presentation skills.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree in engineering, biology, water resources management, humanitarian/development/political studies, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background will provide the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of humanitarian work and the specific challenges faced in the field.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of experience in the humanitarian sector, with at least 3 to 4 years in a similar position. This experience should include direct involvement in MEAL activities and a demonstrated ability to manage complex projects in challenging environments.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, while proficiency in Arabic is considered a bonus. Strong communication skills in both languages will enhance the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment and engage with local communities.

Additional Notes:
The position is salaried, with compensation starting from EUR 2860 gross per month, which includes a base salary and an annual leave allowance. Additionally, a monthly Per Diem of USD 750 is provided. SI covers accommodation costs and travel expenses between the expatriate's country of origin and the place of assignment. The contract duration is for 6 months, with a system of alternating work and time off implemented at the rate of 7 working days every three months, along with a USD 850 break allowance. Expatriates benefit from a comprehensive insurance package covering healthcare expenses, including medical, surgical, dental, and repatriation costs. Living conditions include shared accommodation with other international staff, access to basic amenities, and a structured curfew for safety. The application process requires candidates to submit a CV and cover letter, as CV-only applications will not be considered.