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Position Title: Program Manager II – MEAL
Location: Kigali
Country: Rwanda
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

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 across more than 100 countries. CRS operates without regard to race, religion, or nationality, focusing on relief and development work through various programs including Emergency response, health, Agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. Since its establishment in Rwanda in 1960, CRS has successfully implemented programs in nutrition, agriculture, livelihoods, Emergency Response, water, sanitation, hygiene (WASH), health, microfinance, and peacebuilding throughout the country, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to improving the lives of Rwandans.

Job Overview:
As the Program Manager II – MEAL, you will play a crucial role in managing and providing technical oversight for the development and implementation of the Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) system for the Market Systems Development for Livestock Activity. This position is contingent on successful donor funding and candidate approval. Your expertise will ensure the delivery of high-quality programming and will focus on continuously improving the impact of multi-year development programming. You will be responsible for ensuring that the Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) plan adheres to CRS’ MEAL Policies and Procedures as well as donor requirements, thereby ensuring the program's integrity and effectiveness.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Your responsibilities will include providing management, guidance, and technical oversight for MEAL activities throughout the project cycle, ensuring that project Design, start-up, implementation, and close-out align with CRS quality principles, standards, and MEAL policies. You will oversee the implementation of a complex multi-sectoral program, manage talent for MEAL, supervise staff, and promote a positive team dynamic. Additionally, you will champion program learning by identifying opportunities for research and publications, facilitating the dissemination of promising practices, and ensuring the integration of MEAL-related innovations. You will also provide technical oversight for project evaluations and research, ensuring high-quality Data Management and ethical standards. Furthermore, you will oversee MEAL-related technical assistance and capacity strengthening activities for staff and partner organizations, manage project MEAL expenditures, and lead the Analysis of MEAL data.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Master's Degree in International Development, International Relations, Monitoring and Evaluation, or Statistics. You should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant field-based project management experience, with at least 2-3 years specifically in the area of MEAL. Significant experience in MEAL management, including MEL Plan design, is preferred, along with experience in managing moderately complex projects, preferably with an international NGO. Staff management experience conducive to a learning environment is also essential, as well as proficiency in MS Windows and MS Office applications.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master's Degree in a relevant field such as International Development, International Relations, Monitoring and Evaluation, or Statistics. Additional experience may substitute for some educational requirements, but a strong educational foundation in these areas is critical for success in this role.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant field-based project management experience, with a strong emphasis on MEAL. At least 2-3 years of experience specifically in MEAL is preferred, particularly in managing MEAL for moderately complex projects within an international NGO context. Experience in implementing market-based approaches will be an added advantage.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English. Proficiency in Kinyarwanda, Swahili, and/or French is considered an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration within the local context and with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Kigali, Rwanda, and requires the candidate to be willing and able to travel up to 30% within the country. The role includes supervisory responsibilities for project MEAL staff and involves key working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including the Chief of Party, Deputy Chief of Party, and partner MEAL staff. The position is contingent on donor funding and approval, and Rwandan nationals are highly encouraged to apply. CRS prioritizes candidates who are citizens or permanent residents of the countries where CRS operates, reflecting its commitment to local engagement and empowerment.