Head of Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning

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Position Title: Head of Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning
Location: Kyiv
Country: Ukraine
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
Save the Children is a leading global organization dedicated to improving the lives of children and ensuring their rights are upheld. Established in 1919, Save the Children operates in over 100 countries, focusing on various sectors including education, health, protection, and emergency response. The organization employs thousands of staff worldwide, working tirelessly to create a world where every child has the opportunity to grow up healthy, educated, and safe. Save the Children Ukraine specifically addresses the needs of children affected by the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crises in the region, providing essential services and support to vulnerable populations.

Job Overview:
The Head of Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) is a pivotal role within Save the Children Ukraine, requiring a strategic vision and strong managerial skills to foster an organizational culture focused on accountability and quality programming. This position oversees the implementation of a comprehensive MEAL system that aligns with Save the Children International (SCI) standards. The Head of MEAL is responsible for managing and mentoring a team of approximately 40 MEAL staff across various field offices, ensuring effective monitoring practices, particularly in hard-to-reach areas. The role involves designing innovative monitoring methodologies, ensuring inclusivity in data collection, and leveraging technology to enhance the quality of monitoring efforts. The Head of MEAL will also contribute to strategic planning, resource allocation, and the development of new programs, ensuring that MEAL practices are integrated into project design and implementation.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the MEAL function strategically and operationally, ensuring alignment with SCI standards and flexibility to support humanitarian and long-term recovery programming.
• Design and implement the Save the Children MEAL strategy, focusing on accountability to children and communities, learning objectives, and high-caliber monitoring standards.
• Promote a culture of data-driven decision-making within the organization and among partners.
• Collaborate with the PDQ team to integrate MEAL into project design and implementation.
• Develop and manage monitoring frameworks, tools, and processes to measure performance and quality.
• Ensure compliance with expected standards and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for MEAL activities.
• Oversee external reporting and representation as necessary.
• Ensure the safety of children and communities in MEAL activities, including risk assessments and safeguarding measures.
• Lead the development of project proposals that incorporate relevant MEAL approaches and resources. 1
• Manage the MEAL budget effectively. 1
• Foster a culture of learning and evidence-based strategy development. 1
• Promote accountability to children and communities, ensuring ethical participation and feedback mechanisms. 1
• Lead the MEAL Unit, providing mentorship and support to staff across different geographic areas. 1
• Support local partners in capacity-building initiatives related to MEAL practices. 1
• Ensure compliance with Save the Children policies regarding safeguarding and equal opportunities.

Required Qualifications:

• A Master's degree in social development or a related field.
• Fluency in English, Ukrainian, and Russian, both verbal and written.
• A strong commitment to the values of Save the Children, including child rights and accountability.
• Proven management and leadership skills, with the ability to mentor and develop staff.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including negotiation and influencing abilities.
• Cultural awareness and the ability to work effectively in diverse environments.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in an area related to social development or equivalent qualifications that demonstrate a strong understanding of the principles and practices relevant to monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning in humanitarian and development contexts.

Experience:
A minimum of eight years of management and/or MEAL experience in both emergency and development contexts is essential. Candidates should have solid experience in multiple sectors prioritized by Save the Children, such as education, protection, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, health, and emergencies. Experience in establishing MEAL systems in cash and voucher assistance (CVA) programming is considered a plus. Candidates should also have experience in conducting quantitative and qualitative research, data analysis, and using statistical software.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, along with proficiency in Ukrainian and Russian. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in all three languages, both verbally and in writing, to engage with diverse stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and may require travel to emergency contexts. The role involves a significant level of responsibility and leadership within the organization, contributing to the strategic direction of MEAL practices in Ukraine. Candidates should be prepared for flexibility in work hours and practices, especially in response to emergencies. Compensation and benefits will be discussed during the interview process.