Research, Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Lead (RMEL Lead)

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Position Title: Research, Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Lead (RMEL Lead)
Location: Kabul
Country: Afghanistan
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded in 1986, driven by the belief that a better world is possible. Operating in more than 40 countries, Mercy Corps collaborates with communities to implement bold solutions that help people overcome adversity and build stronger communities. The organization focuses on enhancing resilience, supporting communities to cope with shocks, reduce risks, and improve well-being through various programs and partnerships. In Afghanistan, Mercy Corps has been instrumental in helping communities recover and build resilience against future shocks, particularly for marginalized groups, by providing cash, voucher, and WASH assistance, and promoting sustainable change through community-led initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Research, Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Lead (RMEL Lead) will play a crucial role in the PREVALE Programme Management Unit (PMU) by managing the MEL technical team and leading national MEL focal points from partner organizations. The RMEL Lead will be responsible for implementing the monitoring, evaluation, and learning plan for PREVALE activities, fostering a strong learning culture, and providing strategic direction to MEL staff. This position involves designing research and MEL plans, coordinating information sources, analyzing trends, and contributing to the program's influence strategy. The RMEL Lead will oversee various assessments, data collection, and learning papers, ensuring effective practices for adaptive management are in place and facilitating sessions for evidence-based decision-making.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The RMEL Lead will be responsible for designing and developing a comprehensive MEAL strategy in collaboration with the PREVALE program team, leading research investigations, synthesizing program data, and overseeing data measurement and analysis of key performance indicators. They will coordinate consortium-level MEL and learning events, support the delivery of formative assessments, design the MEL plan, set up the MEL system, and lead systematic reviews of relevant theory and evidence. The RMEL Lead will also oversee the design and implementation of quantitative and qualitative data collection tools, manage the production of external-facing learning products, and support program managers in reviewing MEL budgets. Additionally, they will facilitate learning sessions, develop knowledge management databases, and lead the MEL component during strategic planning sessions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have at least 8 years of experience in designing and implementing MEL approaches, with a minimum of 5 years in senior management roles demonstrating team management skills. Experience with FCDO funded programs is preferred, along with a proven ability to produce final documents for donor consumption. A strong theoretical and practical background in MEL, knowledge of qualitative and quantitative methodologies, and successful experience with mobile data collection tools and data visualization software are required. Thematic experience in agriculture, market systems development, and knowledge of the Afghan context is advantageous.

Educational Background:
While the specific educational background is not explicitly stated, candidates are typically expected to have a relevant degree in fields such as social sciences, development studies, or a related discipline that supports the functions of monitoring, evaluation, and learning.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically 8+ years in MEL design and implementation, and 5+ years in senior management roles. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing teams and projects effectively, particularly in contexts similar to the Afghan environment.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is required, while knowledge of Pashto and Dari is considered advantageous. This linguistic capability is essential for effective communication within the local context and with various stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is contingent upon the successful award of the grant for the PREVALE program, which is anticipated to begin in November or December 202

• The role involves full-time commitment and may require collaboration with various stakeholders, including community members and program participants. Mercy Corps emphasizes a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities without discrimination. The organization also prioritizes safeguarding and ethical practices in all its operations.