Job description
FUNCTION
This position will manage the development and implementation of Planning, Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning and Systems for the country program and projects within the country program. A strong emphasis is on data collection, integrity, data analysis, reporting and dissemination to key stakeholders. S/he will provide technical input to project reviews and proposals, and will provide leadership and support in the implementation on Heifer’s global monitoring and evaluation systems at the country level, ensuring standards in baseline surveys, impact monitoring and evaluation processes that contribute to the global strategies.
The PME Manager represents Heifer’s country-level management, program knowledge and perspective in the development of strategies within Heifer at large and the development and private sector.
Essential Character Traits
The ideal candidate is detailed oriented, self-driven and has strong leadership skills.
Responsibilities And Deliverables
Implement monitoring, evaluation, learning and systems for country specific projects. (30%)
DELIVERABLE
Collect and manage data to support needs assessment, project design, project logical framework design and target setting, and progress management.
Conduct and manage project baseline, and monitor project progress, and evaluations as per M&E plan.
Ensure the effective implementation of MELS policies, procedures and guidelines for country specific projects.
Ensure proper use of available digital tools and technology for effectively managing MELS activities.
Provide support to implement partners in preparing their MELS plans, and in using digital tools for data collection and management.
Support Heifer wide research for Learning when needed.
Elevate MELS related challenges to Country Director for coordination with HQ based staff (Desk Officer and MELS Staff) to find timely solutions.
Contribute to program effectiveness: design monitoring, evaluation, learning and systems for country specific projects. (20%)
Design monitoring and evaluation plan incorporating core standard indicators defined by HQ, and set targets for indicators.
Create indicator reference sheet for all indicators.
DELIVERABLE
Develop the projects Results Framework & logical framework for all the projects.
Design data collection tools, plans and processes for all required information, ensuring high quality and integrity of data.
Review and adjust M&E plans and targets, tools and processes periodically.
Ensure alignment of country’s/projects’ M&E plans and procedures with organization’s standards and requirements.
Support development of a MELS budget and staffing plan per each funded project.
Assist in networking with other development organizations, governments and other line agencies in promoting Heifer’s development model/initiatives, and potential collaborations.
Data management, analysis and utilization for learning. (20%)
Summarize/ aggregate data at country level, and contribute to organization-wide aggregation.
Manage all data properly in clean form, and analyze to use for project management, learning and meet all the reporting needs.
DELIVERABLE
Ensure timely data availability and reporting to stakeholders as needed.Respond to periodic donor and headquarters requests for additional information on project activities and results.CP level learning to action agenda developed, monitored, refined and acted upon.Document lessons learned, successes, failures and best practices via case studies.Develop and monitor CP level action agenda to ensure that they are refined and acted upon.
Capacity Development (20%)
Equip MELS staff and implementing partner staffs with skills to deliver MELS activities efficiently.
Orient and build implementing partners capacity in MELS activities including proper record keeping and data management.
DELIVERABLE
Supervise and manage supporting MELS staff for efficient work and maintaining compliance.
Provide coaching and training to equip MELS staff to deliver the assigned responsibilities efficiently.
Contribute in the recruitment, training and supervision of external parties that are contracted to implement special surveys and studies required for evaluating project effects and impacts.
Fundraising (10%)
Support the development of concept notes, project proposals, and submission to potential donors.
DELIVERABLE
Coordinate with Area MELS and HQ MELS team to keep them updated on MELS activities, and to understand stakeholders needs.
Support research and evaluation initiatives in country.
Assist in networking with other development organizations, governments and other line agencies in promoting Heifer’s development model/initiatives, and potential collaborations.
Required Skills
Perform other job-related duties as requested.
Required Experience
Minimum Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in International Development, Project Planning and Management, Economics and/or Statistics, or an equivalent with an academic focus on monitoring and evaluation or another related field.
Minimum of five (5) years of direct relevant experience in MELS.
Preferred Requirements
Demonstrated experience in coordinating and working with international donors and grantees on PME/MLE systems.
Experience in supporting and monitoring field based programs in the region.
Experience in managing databases and coordinating evaluations, surveys and impact monitoring.
Most Critical Proficiencies
Innovative, analytical, and solutions oriented.
A good understanding of and sensitivity to issues associated with poverty, hunger, agriculture and the environment, and knowledge of the context in which non-profit organizations operate
Knowledge of market systems interventions and linkages to poverty alleviation.
Excellent organizational skills, including strong attention to detail.
Proven experience in building the capacity of partner institutions to document and disseminate industry information, manage knowledge, measure progress and plan and advocate within the industry.
Proficient knowledge of word processing, spreadsheets, presentation tools, electronic mail (Microsoft Office preferred) and Internet.
Strong knowledge and skills in data management and analysis using statistical software’s (eg. STATA, SPSS, SAS, Eviews, etc.).
Demonstrated proficiency in English, both oral and written.
Experience with ICT.
Ability to work in a team.
Essential Job Functions and Physical Demands
Ability to understand, appreciate and implement Heifer’s Values-Based Holistic Community Development model.
Demonstrated creativity, ability to think systematically, willingness and ability to incorporate innovative solutions.
Quantitative and qualitative approaches to evaluation and ability to communicate MEL concepts clearly with leadership, partners, and staff at all levels.
Willingness and ability to assign and review the work of direct reports and to use participatory management skills with junior and senior staff.
Proven team leadership and supervisory skills with the ability to train and work cooperatively with a diverse staff, including field staff in various locations.
Constant face-to-face, telephone and electronic communication with colleagues and the public.
Working with sensitive information and maintaining confidentiality.
Ability to manage and execute multiple tasks with little supervision while meeting sometimes inflexible deadlines.
Willingness and ability to travel.
