About the role
The NOURISH coordination team seeks a Senior MEAL Advisor to spearhead investment and country-level MEAL frameworks, encompassing the creation of the Performance Measurement Framework (PMF), strategic MEAL planning, and the formulation of a comprehensive learning agenda and strategy for the initiative.
This position will collaborate with technical assistance partners to enhance government monitoring and data systems within countries, establishing a robust foundation for results-driven decision-making and sustained success. The primary focus will be on bolstering these systems at the country level to ensure long-term sustainability, with the secondary aim of reinforcing accountability for broader investment outcomes.
The Senior MEAL Advisor will collaborate with the Information Management & Reporting Officer, the Senior Consortium and Project Director, and Technical Assistance Partners (Taps) to enhance the application of routine information systems and ensure rigorous assessment of investment-level Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). This includes evaluating the quality and reliability of the indicators, tools, and measurement approaches integrated into national systems. KPIs will serve as a benchmark to guide partners in optimizing the use and advancement of routine government data and monitoring frameworks. This objective will be pursued by providing continuous support to Taps, who are directly engaged with national governments. A key focus will be strengthening government-owned monitoring and data systems to ensure sustainability and facilitate improved decision-making at both national and subnational levels.
The Senior MEAL Advisor will lead efforts to enhance maternal nutrition data systems in Technical Assistance Partner countries through this investment, offering strategic direction, technical expertise, and operational coordination. The position is centered on advancing standardization, elevating data quality, fostering interoperability, and ensuring data-driven insights are effectively utilized to strengthen accountability for maternal nutrition programs, including MMS and IFA interventions.
Oversee and execute a range of critical duties, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and operational standards. Manage and coordinate key activities, fostering efficiency and effectiveness across assigned responsibilities. Provide strategic leadership in executing tasks, with a focus on achieving measurable outcomes and driving performance improvements. Collaborate closely with stakeholders to identify opportunities, mitigate risks, and optimize processes for enhanced productivity. Ensure compliance with established policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements while maintaining high levels of accuracy and accountability.
We are seeking a skilled professional to oversee the development and implementation of a robust Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) framework, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and best practices. This role will involve designing and maintaining a comprehensive MEAL architecture, including performance measurement systems that track progress, impact, and outcomes. Additionally, the responsibilities include establishing data collection mechanisms, analyzing performance data, and generating actionable insights to inform strategic decision-making and program improvements. The ideal candidate will have expertise in MEAL methodologies, strong analytical skills, and the ability to integrate feedback loops to foster continuous learning and adaptive management.
Oversee the creation and enhancement of the investment-level MEAL plan and strategy, ensuring it aligns with the grant’s theory of change, the C2I and KPI framework, and donor specifications. This encompasses supervising country-level plans and Performance Measurement Frameworks (PMF), embedding key performance indicators into government systems where feasible, and providing technical direction for results-based management.
Design and implement a comprehensive Investment Level Learning Strategy, while also guiding the creation of tailored Learning Agendas for each TAP.
Lead the creation and implementation of the investment-level learning strategy by pinpointing key learning questions and guaranteeing that strong, credible evidence is consistently collected, analyzed, and leveraged to inform strategic decisions. This includes harmonizing country-specific learning agendas with the broader strategy while fostering cross-country collaboration to encourage peer-driven reflection, innovation, and the dissemination of successful approaches.
The establishment of standardized indicators, tools, and measurement methodologies represents a core responsibility of this role. This involves designing and refining frameworks to ensure consistency, accuracy, and comparability across assessments. Additionally, the position requires the creation and implementation of reliable tools to facilitate data collection, analysis, and reporting, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and industry best practices.
Lead the development and facilitation of cross-regional workshops aimed at harmonizing Performance Management Frameworks, evaluating existing data landscapes, and designing comprehensive monitoring frameworks. Offer expert technical support to Technical Assistance Providers (Taps) on standardized reporting protocols, indicator definitions, and data integrity assurance. Implement structured reporting governance by establishing annual workflows, strategic work plans, and centralized SharePoint repositories for documentation and collaboration.
Enhancing data accuracy, accessibility, and transparency stands as a primary objective in this role, ensuring high-value information is consistently reliable, efficiently utilized, and readily available across the organization.
Offer expert technical assistance to governments and Technical Assistance Providers (Taps) on Data Quality Improvement (DCI) methodologies, encompassing regular data review procedures, quality evaluation instruments, and robust supervision and verification techniques. Design and deploy a grant-level dashboard and analytics platform to monitor KPI performance, while empowering country partners to utilize visualizations and dashboards strategically for enhanced decision-making and adaptive management.
Systems strengthening, sustainability, and harmonization are critical to ensuring long-term impact and alignment across initiatives. This role focuses on integrating and optimizing systems to enhance efficiency, resilience, and coordination, while fostering sustainable practices that align with organizational goals and stakeholder needs. Responsibilities include analyzing existing frameworks, identifying gaps, and implementing strategies to improve performance, scalability, and adaptability. The position requires collaboration with cross-functional teams to align processes, reduce redundancies, and promote cohesive operations. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills are essential, along with a deep understanding of systems thinking and sustainable development principles.
Advise Targeted Assistance Partners (Taps) in strengthening the connections between data logistics and health information systems, as well as the flows of information at community and facility levels. Offer technical support and practical tools to facilitate the integration of Multiple Micronutrient Supplement (MMS), Iron-Folic Acid (IFA), and calcium indicators into DHIS2, HIS, LUIS, Echos, and various facility registers and reporting tools. Organize regular learning and review sessions with Taps to evaluate progress, address quality concerns, exchange cross-country insights, and propose system improvements.
Ensure adherence to regulatory standards and internal policies through vigilant oversight of data and content management, mitigating risks and safeguarding organizational integrity. Oversee compliance with applicable laws, industry regulations, and ethical guidelines to maintain operational excellence and protect sensitive information. Develop and implement robust safeguarding measures to prevent data breaches, unauthorized access, or misuse while fostering a culture of accountability and transparency. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to assess risks, identify vulnerabilities, and enforce robust controls, ensuring alignment with both legal and organizational objectives.
Ensure strict adherence to data protection and content classification protocols, implementing robust security measures and access controls for sensitive information. Oversee permission management and verify ethical data usage in alignment with organizational, governmental, and donor-established guidelines. Consistently apply safeguarding, Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA), and Do No Harm principles throughout all documentation and dissemination activities.
Overseeing a team of professionals, ensuring optimal performance and adherence to organizational standards, constitutes a core responsibility of this role. This position involves guiding, mentoring, and evaluating staff to foster a productive and collaborative work environment while maintaining accountability for team outcomes. Additionally, the supervisor will address performance concerns, facilitate professional development, and align team objectives with broader company goals to drive efficiency and success.
The Senior MEAL Advisor will oversee and directly supervise the Information Management & Reporting Officer (IMO), ensuring effective line management and operational guidance.
Seeking candidates with relevant academic credentials, professional certifications, and substantial work experience in the field. Applicants must hold a degree in a related discipline from an accredited institution, complemented by recognized industry certifications. A minimum of five years of hands-on experience in a similar role is required, along with a proven track record of delivering measurable results. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills are essential to excel in this position.
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced professional to join our team in a role that requires a strong academic background. The ideal candidate will have successfully completed a relevant degree program, demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning and professional development. Additionally, the position necessitates a deep understanding of theoretical concepts and practical applications within the field, ensuring that the individual can contribute effectively to our organization’s objectives. Essential skills include critical thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to apply knowledge in real-world scenarios.
A master’s degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, Monitoring & Evaluation, Data Science, Nutrition, or a closely related discipline is required.
With a proven track record in relevant roles, the ideal candidate will demonstrate extensive hands-on experience in the specified field. A minimum of [X] years of professional experience is required, complemented by specialized skills in [specific skills or areas]. The position demands expertise in [key responsibility or area], along with the ability to [critical competency or task]. Strong problem-solving abilities and a collaborative mindset are essential for navigating challenges and driving results in this dynamic environment.
With over a decade of expertise in Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) roles—particularly within health or nutrition initiatives—preferably in low- and middle-income countries (Mics) and spanning multiple African regions.
Experienced in enhancing national monitoring and data infrastructure, with a proven track record of improvement.
Demonstrated expertise in managing projects funded by donors such as government agencies, United Nations entities, foundations, and multilateral organizations, coupled with a solid grasp of donor compliance standards and requirements.
Preferred experience includes involvement with bilateral or philanthropic grant initiatives.
Seeking professionals with a proven track record in international development, public health, nutrition, or within an NGO setting.
Proficiency in the regulatory frameworks governing major donors, including Global Affairs Canada, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), the European Union, as well as private and public foundations, is required.
Proficiency in maternal nutrition initiatives or micronutrient supplementation programs is highly desirable.
Skilled in utilizing statistical and data visualization tools, including State, R, Power BI, DHIS2 Analytics, among others, is essential.
Seeking a candidate with a robust skill set, demonstrated competencies, and a strong alignment with key personnel attributes to excel in the role. The ideal applicant will possess exceptional analytical capabilities, effective communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively within a team environment. Additionally, proven leadership qualities, adaptability to change, and a commitment to continuous professional development are essential. The position requires meticulous attention to detail, sound problem-solving abilities, and a proactive approach to task management. Candidates must exhibit integrity, resilience under pressure, and a dedication to delivering high-quality results in a dynamic workplace.
Technical competencies required for the MEAL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning) role encompass a comprehensive understanding of data collection methodologies, statistical analysis techniques, and performance measurement frameworks. Proficiency in designing and implementing monitoring systems, conducting rigorous evaluations, and utilizing data visualization tools is essential. Candidates must demonstrate expertise in developing clear, actionable insights from complex datasets while ensuring alignment with organizational goals and donor requirements. Familiarity with industry-standard software, such as SPSS, R, or State, along with experience in qualitative and quantitative research methods, is mandatory. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to translate technical findings into accessible reports for non-technical stakeholders are critical. Additionally, knowledge of MEAL best practices, including the use of digital platforms for real-time data tracking and adaptive management, is highly desirable.
Demonstrates a strong command of monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning systems specifically within the domains of public health, nutrition, or health systems strengthening.
Skilled in designing indicator frameworks, creating data collection tools, establishing measurement methodologies, and implementing reporting systems.
Demonstrates exceptional proficiency in ensuring data quality, conducting systematic system evaluations, and enhancing government monitoring and evaluation frameworks.
We are seeking candidates with expertise in strengthening data systems competencies. The ideal applicant will possess a strong background in data management, analytics, and system optimization. Proficiency in identifying inefficiencies, implementing improvements, and ensuring data integrity is essential. Additionally, they will be responsible for training teams on best practices, collaborating with stakeholders to align data strategies with organizational goals, and maintaining robust data governance frameworks. Experience with relevant tools, technologies, and compliance standards is required to support scalable and secure data solutions.
Proven expertise in incorporating indicators into national health information systems, including DHIS2, LUIS, HIS, and Echos.
Proficient with interoperability frameworks, data flow architectures, and data governance principles specifically tailored too low- and middle-income country contexts.
Proficient in advising collaborators on integrating logistics, facility, and community data to enhance monitoring and responsibility mechanisms.
The position necessitates frequent domestic and international travel, with travel requirements varying based on project demands and client locations. Candidates must be prepared to accommodate flexible schedules, including overnight stays and weekend departures, as travel may be required on short notice. Travel-related expenses, such as airfare, lodging, and ground transportation, will be reimbursed in accordance with company policy. Compliance with all travel policies and safety protocols is mandatory.
You may be required to travel up to 20% of the time to TAP countries and regional meetings, which may include field visits to support government systems.
Collaborates effectively across various time zones within a matrixed organizational structure involving multiple partners.
Qualifications
MBA/MSc/MA
Experience Required
10 years
