The MEL Specialist will report to the Project Lead for the project. The MEL Specialist will be responsible for all aspects of monitoring and evaluation related to the project including quality assurance and programme improvement and meeting projects evaluation requirements. The role will involve managing the design and implementation of the M&E Framework and Evaluation Strategy and managing the project database and mobile data collection system. The MEL Specialist will contribute to Project reports and lead in the documentation and dissemination of lessons learnt, as well as the identification of areas of improvement. The MEL Specialist will manage a Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) Coordinator and coordinate a team of field level Coordinators for data collection.

TECHNICAL EXPERTISE, SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum of a University Degree and a Master degree in Development Studies, Econometrics, Statistics, Social Sciences or other relevant qualifications from a recognized university
• At least 5 years proven experience work with NGOs on interventions aimed at improving learning gains in basic schools
• Previous experience of Monitoring and Evaluation, including logical frameworks, M&E frameworks and monitoring and evaluation strategies
• Previous experience of data collection and using mobile data collection software
• Previous experience of managing a small remote team
• Knowledge of statistical analysis, quantitative and qualitative data collection techniques
• Coaching and mentoring skills for building the capacity of partner organizations in M&E and learning
• Proven experience in facilitating and delivering various trainings using participatory approaches.
• Capacity building experience in project design, implementation, reporting, and evaluation.

Key skills & Competencies

• Strong project monitoring and evaluation skills
• Highly functional knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and other ICT skills required
• Skills in report writing
• Excellent English language skills, including reading, writing, speaking and listening
• Data analysis (quantitative and qualitative)

Personal Attributes

• Self-starter and team player with high standards
• Ability to multi task and work under some level of pressure
• Ability to work in a cross-cultural environment and with multi- and interdisciplinary teams
• Very organised and attention to detail
• The ability to multi-task and cope with a degree of pressure at peak times

Desirable

• Previous experience of using Salesforce as a database
• Knowledge in Education programming and working with remote partners is an advantage
• Knowledge and experience working on CBE or similar programmes is an added advantage
• Proven experience conducting remote monitoring with GES staff
• Familiarity with current trends in education