The FIRST project requires the services of a Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning (MERL) Lead based in Lusaka, Zambia to provide monitoring and evaluation and knowledge management services to the GAC FIRST Project.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Working under the direction of the FIRST Team Leader the expected services of the Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning (MERL) Lead will include, but not limited to:

• 1 Coordinate collection of all PMF GE Outcome and output indicator data as per the approved PMF;
• 2 With the national GE Specialist, undertake timely analysis of all collected PMF GE Outcome and output indicator data from baseline onwards to end of Project as per GAC reporting requirements and deadlines;
• 3 Draft PMF and related M&E associated sections of all Project reports, including, but not limited to, Project Operations Reports (semi-annual), Annual Work Plans, Annual Reports, and “Stories of Change” in line with GAC reporting requirements;
• 4 As requested by the Team Leader, develop data analysis charts/products based on PMF performance and/or other available information to date for presentation at monthly/quarterly project review meetings;
• 5 Prepare and maintain a gender-sensitive database of all completed FIRST trainings implemented by the Project, with quarterly summaries forwarded to the Team Leader for review;
• 6 Prepare and maintain a gender-sensitive database of all FIRST beneficiaries actually reached by the Project (for GAC reporting purposes), with quarterly summaries forwarded to the Team Leader for review;
• 7 Support FIRST project documentation including gathering of “stories of change” as defined by GAC and related success stories, case studies and/or lessons learnt as directed by the Team Leader;
• 8 Provide M&E support to Project team members and/or external consultants as and when required;
• 9 Any other tasks assigned by the Team Leader.

  JOB REQUIREMENTS 
Education

• A Graduate Degree (Master’s Degree required or equivalent would be an asset) in Social Sciences, evaluation, management, public policy or other relevant disciplines (research and methodological experience encouraged).

Minimum Experience

• Minimum of 10 years of experience, as senior specialist or in a senior program management position in implementing monitoring and evaluation in Southern Africa (experience in DRC, Zambia and Mozambique would be considered an asset). Knowledge of GAC or similar results-based management approaches would be an asset;
• Demonstrated understanding of GEDSI-transformative MERL methods and approaches and/or MERL experience relating to GEDSI specific issues or programs; and
• Substantial experience in designing, monitoring and evaluation of donor funded projects and ensuring monitoring and evaluation approaches are consistent throughout a program.

Essential Skills

• Demonstrate ability (through previous similar assignments) to analyse, compile and synthesize information in a coherent and succinct format;
• Relevant technical skills in analysing and interpreting quantitative and qualitative data and presenting the findings in an easily understood format;
• A drive for results, including proven track record of high standards/accountability for work products, meeting deadlines, an ability to prioritize tasks within his/her work program and strategies for working collectively with others on the team to deliver products of the highest calibre;
• Strong interpersonal, cross-cultural and communication skills;
• Commitment to teamwork and ability to build constructive and effective relationships;
• Demonstrated ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives and a professional commitment to promote a culture of gender equality and social inclusion; and
• A resident of Zambia.

Language Proficiency

• Professional fluency in English (writing, reading and speaking); Fluency in French and/or Portuguese would be an asset.