POSITION OVERVIEW
The Team Leader will function as the principal technical advisor and overall supervisor of the MEAL implementation team, overseeing all aspects of the initiative’s monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning activities. This role carries full responsibility for ensuring the excellence, punctuality, and methodological precision of every MEAL deliverable produced throughout the assignment, from initial design through the final Edline evaluation. Close collaboration with the designated MEAL focal point within the client organization will be essential to synchronize work plans, methodological frameworks, and reporting procedures, while also representing the MEAL team in high-level interactions with donors and program stakeholders.
Oversee and execute critical operational duties, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and maintaining high standards of efficiency and quality. Develop and implement strategic initiatives to enhance productivity, streamline processes, and drive continuous improvement across teams. Collaborate with cross-functional departments to identify opportunities for innovation and optimize resource allocation. Monitor performance metrics, analyze data trends, and provide actionable insights to senior leadership to support informed decision-making. Lead and mentor team members, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and professional growth. Ensure compliance with industry regulations, company policies, and best practices while upholding ethical standards and sustainability goals.
Oversee the development and completion of all evaluation and assessment methodologies, with a focus on implementing the program Results Framework indicators for Baseline, Midline, and Edline evaluations.
Responsibilities include managing and ensuring the integrity of the entire third-party monitoring process, which encompasses the creation and authorization of verification tools, key informant interview guides, focus group discussion protocols, and data quality assurance procedures.
Direct primary data collection, review of secondary data, and triangulation are conducted for all major assessment products to ensure methodological rigor and contextual relevance.
Lead the design and execution of social network analysis (SNA) as an integral component of the Midline and Edline assessment cycles.
Prepare comprehensive Baseline, Midline, and Edline evaluation reports, incorporating detailed case studies for each major assessment conducted at both geographic and thematic levels.
Ensure the accuracy and reliability of all quarterly third-party monitoring reports by conducting thorough quality assurance reviews and providing final approval, with a focus on analytically validated findings, evidence-backed conclusions, and the absence of material factual discrepancies.
Support the preparation and co-facilitation of Outcome Harvesting sessions, which are conducted bi-annually in collaboration with program implementing partners. This role involves drafting session agendas, creating digital facilitation tools, and compiling session outputs into comprehensive learning briefs.
Facilitate the joint delivery of annual in-person learning events alongside implementing partners and the donor, taking the lead in conducting group sessions focused on thematic or geographic learning gaps as required.
Provide comprehensive technical leadership to the technical teams, including the Research Officer, Field Coordinators, and GIS Analyst, throughout the data collection and analysis phases.
Work collaboratively with the Communications Officer to transform MEAL findings into clear, contextually relevant communication materials.
Prepare and deliver formal presentations summarizing key findings to the program management team, as well as to the donor and advisory board, as and when required.
Oversee the preparation and upkeep of a comprehensive inception report that outlines the team’s methodology for all MEAL components, key timelines, established communication protocols, Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (DESI) mainstreaming strategy, and the risk register.
We are seeking a candidate with the appropriate qualifications and relevant experience to fulfill this role effectively. The ideal applicant will possess a [specific degree or certification, if applicable], complemented by [X years] of hands-on experience in [relevant field or industry]. Proficiency in [specific skills or software] is essential, along with a proven track record in [key responsibilities or achievements]. Additionally, strong communication and problem-solving abilities are required to collaborate successfully within a dynamic team environment.
A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in designing and implementing MEAL activities within the Somali context is required.
Hold an advanced university degree, such as a Master’s or equivalent qualification, in social sciences, development studies, political science, international relations, economics, or a closely related field.
Proven proficiency in assessment frameworks encompasses quantitative and qualitative techniques, mixed-methods strategies, and participatory techniques.
Proven expertise in performing or leading social network analysis within intricate social or political environments is required. Candidates with prior Social Network Analysis (SNA) experience specifically in the Somali governance domain will be particularly favored.
Delivers conflict-sensitive and DESI-responsive MEAL initiatives, demonstrated through a strong history of adapting tools and approaches to fragile and politically sensitive operating environments.
Proven track record in overseeing and directing field teams consisting of analysts and research officers, particularly in high-security or restricted-access environments.
Extensive experience in drafting evaluation reports, learning briefs, and monitoring outputs for bilateral donors, multilateral agencies, or international NGOs is required. Applicants should be prepared to furnish evidence of relevant work.
Skilled in delivering evaluation results effectively to high-level donor and government stakeholders.
Proficiency in Outcome Harvesting or similar emergent/contribution-focused evaluation methodologies, particularly within governance-related programming contexts, is required.
Demonstrated experience with the European Union’s development cooperation priorities and evaluation frameworks, particularly in Denmark, Norway, or Sweden, represents a significant advantage.
All required documents must be submitted in a single email to the designated address below for consideration. Incomplete submissions will not be reviewed. Applications should be directed to hr@hacof.com, with the subject line formatted to include the exact position title in the following manner: [POSITION TITLE]. As this is a continuous recruitment process, candidates are advised to apply promptly. Review of applications will commence immediately upon receipt and will continue until the role is filled.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA
Experience Required
10 years
