About the role
The NOURISH coordination team seeks an experienced Senior MEAL Advisor to spearhead investment and country-level MEAL frameworks, with a primary focus on designing the Performance Measurement Framework (PMF), overseeing MEAL planning, and crafting the learning agenda and strategy for the investment.
This position will collaborate with technical assistance partners to enhance government monitoring and data systems within countries, establishing a robust foundation for informed, results-driven decision-making and long-term sustainability. Prioritizing country-level impact and enduring viability, the role will further ensure transparency and accountability in 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 utilization of routine information systems and ensure rigorous tracking of investment-level Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). This includes evaluating the quality and reliability of indicators, tools, and measurement approaches integrated into national systems. The KPIs will serve as a benchmark to assist partners in optimizing and strengthening routine government data and monitoring frameworks. This objective will be pursued through continuous support to Taps, who engage directly with country governments. A key focus will be on reinforcing government-led monitoring and data systems to ensure sustainability and to improve 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 by offering strategic direction, specialized expertise, and coordinated support. This position is designed to advance data standardization, elevate data quality, promote interoperability, and ensure data is leveraged effectively to strengthen accountability for maternal nutrition interventions, including Multiple Micronutrient Supplements (MMS) and Iron and Folic Acid (IFA) programs.
Oversee a range of essential duties and responsibilities integral to the role, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and operational standards. Execute tasks with precision and efficiency, addressing key functions as outlined in the position’s core requirements. Maintain consistent performance while adhering to established protocols and best practices, ensuring seamless workflow integration. Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams to achieve departmental goals and contribute to broader organizational success. Address challenges proactively, leveraging problem-solving skills to mitigate risks and optimize outcomes in alignment with strategic priorities.
MEAL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning) systems will be developed and implemented to ensure data-driven decision-making and impact assessment. A robust Performance Measurement Framework will be established to track progress against key indicators, while the MEAL architecture will be designed to integrate diverse data sources and reporting mechanisms. This role requires expertise in designing, refining, and maintaining these systems to support transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement in program outcomes.
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 framework, the KPI framework, and donor requirements. This involves supervising country-level plans and Performance Measurement Frameworks (PMF), embedding KPIs into government systems where feasible, and providing expert guidance on results-based management.
Formulate a comprehensive Investment-Level Learning Strategy and guide the creation of Learning Agendas for the Technical Assistance Projects (Taps).
Lead the creation and implementation of an investment-focused learning strategy by pinpointing critical learning questions and guaranteeing the consistent production, analysis, and utilization of high-quality evidence to inform strategic decisions. This includes harmonizing country-specific learning initiatives with the broader strategic framework and fostering cross-country collaboration to encourage shared reflection, foster innovation, and drive the adoption of proven methodologies.
We will create standardized indicators, tools, and measurement methods to establish consistent frameworks for evaluating performance and outcomes.
Lead the coordination of nationwide workshops aimed at harmonizing Performance Management Frameworks, evaluating data ecosystems, and designing robust monitoring strategies. Offer specialized expertise to Technical Assistance Providers (Taps) regarding standardized reporting protocols, precise indicator definitions, and rigorous data quality standards. Implement structured reporting governance, encompassing annual cycles, detailed work plans, and centralized SharePoint repositories for seamless documentation and access.
Enhancing data integrity, accessibility, and transparency constitutes a key focus of this role. By refining data collection processes, implementing robust validation measures, and ensuring accurate, up-to-date records, the position drives improvements in overall data quality. Additionally, the role emphasizes optimizing data utilization to support informed decision-making while fostering greater visibility across systems and stakeholders.
You will offer expert technical assistance to governments and TAP son Data Quality Improvement (DCI) processes, encompassing periodic data review protocols, quality assessment tools, and methods for supportive supervision and verification. Additionally, you will design a grant-level dashboard and analytics system to monitor progress against key performance indicators (KPIs), while also aiding country partners in leveraging visualizations and dashboards to enhance decision-making and adaptive strategies.
Systems strengthening, sustainability, and harmonization drive our core operational priorities, ensuring efficient, long-term program delivery. These efforts focus on optimizing infrastructure, processes, and partnerships to enhance resilience and maximize impact. Key requirements include expertise in resource mobilization, strategic planning, and cross-sector collaboration, alongside a commitment to adaptive management and continuous improvement. Responsibilities encompass aligning policies, integrating best practices, and fostering stakeholder engagement to achieve cohesive and scalable solutions.
Provide strategic guidance to TAP son optimizing the connectivity between data logistics and health information systems, alongside community and facility-level information exchange. Deliver targeted technical support and practical job aids to facilitate the seamless incorporation of MMS, IFA, and calcium indicators into DHIS2, HIS, LUIS, Echos, and facility registers and reporting tools. Organize regular learning and review sessions with Taps to evaluate advancements, address data quality concerns, disseminate best practices from across countries, and propose system improvements.
Risk, Compliance & Safeguarding (Data & Content) professionals ensure adherence to regulatory frameworks, company policies, and ethical standards governing data protection and content integrity. They oversee the implementation of robust safeguarding measures to mitigate risks associated with data handling, privacy breaches, and content compliance, fostering a secure and trustworthy operational environment. Responsibilities include conducting risk assessments, monitoring compliance with relevant laws such as GDPR or CCPA, and addressing potential vulnerabilities in data processing and content management systems. Additionally, they collaborate with cross-functional teams to establish and enforce policies that uphold data security, privacy, and regulatory obligations while promoting a culture of accountability and transparency within the organization.
Ensure adherence to data protection and content classification policies, implementing robust security measures for the handling and access of sensitive information. Oversee permission management and guarantee the ethical utilization of data, aligning with organizational, governmental, and donor-established guidelines. Maintain compliance with safeguarding protocols, SEA standards, and the principle of Do No Harm across all documentation and dissemination efforts.
Responsibilities include overseeing and managing the work of assigned teams or departments, ensuring adherence to organizational policies and procedures, and providing guidance and support to enhance team performance and productivity. This role involves delegating tasks effectively, monitoring progress, and addressing any operational challenges to maintain workflow efficiency. Additionally, supervisors are responsible for conducting performance evaluations, fostering professional development, and promoting a collaborative and inclusive work environment. They must also ensure compliance with relevant regulations and standards while maintaining open communication channels with senior leadership and other stakeholders.
The Senior MEAL Advisor will oversee and directly manage the Information Management & Reporting Officer (IMO), ensuring effective leadership and operational guidance.
Seeking candidates with a strong academic foundation and relevant professional qualifications, ideally complemented by hands-on experience in the field. Applicants must possess the requisite educational credentials and any necessary certifications to fulfill the role effectively. Prior to work experience in a comparable position is strongly preferred, ensuring a seamless transition and immediate contribution to organizational objectives.
We seek candidates who have successfully completed a degree or certification in education or a closely related discipline from an accredited institution. Applicants must possess a valid teaching license or certification, where applicable, and demonstrate at least two years of hands-on instructional experience in a classroom setting. Additionally, proficiency in curriculum development and assessment methodologies is required. Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, are essential to effectively engage with students, parents, and colleagues. A commitment to continuous professional growth and a passion for fostering student success are also expected.
A master’s degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, Monitoring & Evaluation, Data Science, Nutrition, or a closely related discipline is required.
Experienced professionals with a proven track record in the field are encouraged to apply. Candidates should possess at least three years of relevant work experience in [specific industry or role]. The ideal applicant will demonstrate expertise in [key skill or area of knowledge], along with a strong ability to [specific competency, e.g., lead teams or solve complex problems]. Additionally, familiarity with [relevant tool, software, or methodology] is required, and prior experience in [related industry or function] is highly desirable.
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 encompassing multi-country engagements across Africa.
Accomplished track record in enhancing national-level monitoring and data infrastructure to improve system resilience and efficiency.
Demonstrated expertise in managing projects supported by external funding sources, including governmental bodies, United Nations agencies, charitable foundations, and multilateral organizations, along with a thorough grasp of donor compliance frameworks and requirements.
Preferred candidates will have prior experience managing or supporting bilateral or philanthropic grant initiatives.
Seeking professionals with a background in international development, public health, nutrition, or within an NGO setting.
Proficiency in the regulations governing major donors, including Global Affairs Canada, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, the European Union, as well as private and public foundations, is required.
Proficiency in maternal nutrition initiatives or micronutrient supplementation projects is highly desirable.
Proficient in leveraging statistical and data visualization tools, including but not limited to State, R, Power BI, and DHIS2 analytics.
Seeking a motivated professional with a blend of technical expertise, interpersonal strengths, and a proactive mindset to excel in this role. Key attributes include a strong analytical ability, exceptional organizational skills, and a knack for problem-solving under pressure. The ideal candidate will demonstrate adaptability, clear communication, and a commitment to continuous improvement, ensuring alignment with team objectives and organizational goals. Proficiency in relevant tools and methodologies is essential, along with the capacity to collaborate effectively across departments. A results-driven approach and a dedication to maintaining high standards of quality are highly valued.
The candidate must possess strong technical competencies in MEAL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning), including proficiency in data collection methodologies, statistical analysis software, and report writing. Experience with designing and implementing MEAL frameworks, conducting assessments, and managing performance tracking systems is essential. Additionally, the role requires the ability to interpret and apply findings to inform program improvements and decision-making processes. Familiarity with digital tools for data management and visualization, as well as knowledge of relevant standards and best practices in MEAL, will be advantageous.
Experts with extensive experience in monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning frameworks are sought, particularly within the domains of public health, nutrition, or health systems strengthening.
Seasoned professionals with a track record of designing indicator frameworks, creating data collection instruments, establishing measurement methodologies, and implementing reporting systems will find this role compelling.
Capable of ensuring high standards in data quality, conducting regular system evaluations, and enhancing government monitoring and evaluation processes.
Proficiency in enhancing data systems’ efficiency and reliability is essential. Candidates should demonstrate expertise in designing, implementing, and optimizing data infrastructure to support organizational objectives. Strong analytical skills are required to identify system weaknesses and propose data-driven solutions. Familiarity with database management, cloud computing, and cybersecurity best practices is highly desirable. The role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams to align data systems with business needs while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Experience in data governance, performance monitoring, and system integration is preferred.
Proven expertise in incorporating indicators into national health information systems such as DHIS2, LUIS, HIS, and Echos is required.
Proficiency in interoperability principles, data flow mechanisms, and data governance frameworks within low- and middle-income country contexts is required.
Proficient in advising collaborators on integrating logistics, facility, and community data to enhance monitoring and responsibility.
You may be required to travel domestically and internationally, with potential trips lasting up to one month. Trips could involve extensive travel, including multiple destinations within a single journey. Additionally, you must possess a valid passport and be prepared to travel on short notice when necessary.
You may be required to travel up to 20% of the time, visiting TAP countries and regional meetings, alongside conducting field visits to strengthen government systems.
Operates within a globally distributed, matrix-structured team comprising multiple partners, accommodating various time zones.
Qualifications
MBA/MSc/MA
Experience Required
10 years
