The MEL Director will oversee the monitoring, evaluation and learning components of a potential USAID funded PEPFAR related activity which will build on current investments made by USAID on HIV prevention, care and treatment focusing specifically on pregnant women, children and adolescents. This project will accelerate the ability of governments and, organizations working with these target populations to plan and implement interventions and services that help with these efforts.
The MEL Director will lead the development of and manages the MEL Plan. The MEL Director develops and maintains systems to collect data and leads analysis to produce information on inputs, outputs, outcomes and impact of the program. S/he collaborates with and oversees sub-grantees to provide feedback on data collection and indicators; analyzes data reported from sub-grantees and supports training of M&E personnel in quality assurance methods. S/he collaborates with the program team to design operations research (OR) to support learning, evaluation and planning, and oversees the implementation of OR projects as well as analysis, dissemination, and use. She/he shares MEL data and improvement plans, as well as strategies for program improvements for greater program effects with program team. This position will report to the Chief of Party. Recruitment is contingent upon successful award of the project and the selection of the final applicant is subject to USAID approval.
- Designs and oversees the monitoring, evaluation and learning plan for the project
- Responsible for providing technical assistance, developing and setting up M&E systems for the timely collection, management, analysis, and reporting of valid and reliable data that meet donor and national reporting requirements
- Focus on strengthening the M&E system, building capacity of partners and staff, and improving alignment and support to host-country M&E systems
- Develop and lead the implementation of a robust learning agenda for continuous learning, collaboration and adaptation
- Undertake periodic reviews of program and/or country M&E systems and participate in planning M&E system strengthening actions. Provide guidance on information systems for quality assurance, as well as best practices documentation and reporting
- Oversee the publication and dissemination of information on successful and promising approaches, lessons learned and other program results to program partners, donors, Government counterparts and other key stakeholders.
- At least 5 years of experience related to monitoring, evaluating and reporting on programs related to HIV prevention and care and testing.
- Experience in design and implementation of M&E systems for USG-funded projects
- Strong background or formal training in evaluating international development programs such as but not limited to, HIV and OVC programs.
- Strong quantitative and analytical skills and ability to articulate technical information clearly and effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences
- Demonstrated expertise in rigorous quantitative and qualitative research and analytical methods
- Excellent report writing, analytical, and communication skills, including oral presentation skills
- Demonstrated statistical analysis skills and use of relevant software (SAS, SPSS, Epi Info, Atlas)
- Fluency in English
Problem Solving & Impact:
- Strong critical thinking and problem solving skills to plan, organize, and manage resources for successful completion of projects.
- Prioritizes problems and establishes practical and achievable action plans
- Ability to apply new critical thinking approaches and overcome barriers to strategic problem solving.
- Decisions and actions have a significant impact on programs.
- Problems encountered are complex and highly varied.
- Exercises judgment to meet business strategies and develops objectives that align with organizational goals.
- Strong analytical and problem solving capabilities.
Supervision Given/Received:
- Sets goals and budgets for projects and leads department in achieving strategic goals in a particular program area.
- Leads coordination of resources for ongoing projects across functional areas and addresses/resolves project issues.
- Typically reports to a Director, Project Portfolio.
Education:
- Significant study in the health field, international development and/or program monitoring and evaluation
Experience:
- At least 5 years of experience related to monitoring, evaluating and reporting on programs related to HIV prevention and care and testing..
- Demonstrated experience in multi-sector project management and implementation.
- Demonstrated strategic planning, staff development and capacity building experience.
- Demonstrated experience in leading and managing complex projects that are strategic in nature and national/international in scope.
- Must be able to read, write, and speak fluent English.
- Experience working in a non-profit organization.
Typical Physical Demands:
- Typical office environment. Ability to sit and stand for extended periods of time; ability to lift 5-50 lbs.
Technology to be Used:
- Personal Computer, Microsoft Office (i.e. Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.), e-mail, telephone, printer, calculator, copier, cell phones, PDAs and other hand held devices.
Travel Requirements:
- Greater than 25%