Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist

Job Description

We’re ZSL, an international conservation charity. Through our unrivalled animal experts in our two zoos (London zoo and Whipsnade Zoo), the work of our pioneering scientists, our dedicated conservationists, our purpose is to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wild animals going extinct. Our vision is a world where wildlife thrives and we’re working every day to achieve this. From investigating the health threats facing animals, to helping people and wildlife live alongside each other, we are committed to bringing wildlife back from the brink of extinction.

This role will work closely with C&P’s conservation delivery teams and operations, as well as ZSL fundraising teams and other teams across the society when needed, to provide Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) expertise and support. Provide technical inputs into proposal and programme design using the Open Standards for the Practice of Conservation (‘Conservation Standards’) approach.

The job-holder will support the SDIG’s contributions to the design of strategic, robust, and competitive funding applications to resource the delivery of our conservation goals and increased financial sustainability across C&P.

• Provide key technical inputs into the design and development process of strategic long-term costed conservation plans for focal programmes of work using the Conservation Standards.
• Support delivery teams to ensure ZSL maintains its strategic vision and that all activities result in the achievement of projected outputs in a cost-effective and timely manner and are compliant with donor requirements.
• Provide technical inputs into the development of the M&E framework and impact framework within C&P including input into the development of software by the Impact Specialist to drive improvements in line with M&E being developed for the whole organisation.
• Support the design, writing, and dissemination of technically relevant knowledge-sharing products to support learning and adaptive management of programmes and associated projects, such as driving publication of peer-reviewed papers and other external-facing knowledge products, and where possible attending networking opportunities to promote ZSL’s conservation development impacts globally
• Contribute to networking opportunities for collaboration between ZSL programmes and large-scale International Development NGOs as appropriate.
• Facilitate integration of robust socio-economic M&E elements into project designs and funding bids developed within C&P.

• Working closely with the Conservation Training and Learning Manager, take responsibility for the development of, training in, and regular review of tools and supporting systems and processes to support teams during programme design and evaluation phases.

Person Specification

• Demonstrable experience and technical skills in Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) and producing MEAL reports
• Graduate in a relevant field, e.g., international Development or Conservation, or equivalent work experience implementing such projects and using quantitative research methods.
• Proven experience of strategic approaches.
• Solid project management experience with the ability to manage multiple project strands simultaneously.
• Ability to think critically and analyse complex and nuanced problems.
• Demonstrable facilitation, training, and coaching skills in MEAL
• Previous experience working with colleagues and partners from different cultural backgrounds, preferably in countries in Asia and/or Africa.
• A good understanding of biodiversity conservation and international development issues
• Excellent communication skills in written and spoken English. Proficiency in a language other than English, such as French or Portuguese, would be a major asset.
• Meticulous attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to manage competing priorities.
• An ability to lead and work effectively with multiple stakeholders, small teams, and senior managers.
• Tact and diplomacy working with diverse stakeholder groups.

What do we offer?

We are committed to improving diversity and inclusion. We recognise the value of having employees with diverse skills, experiences, and abilities, we therefore, encourage applications from all backgrounds.

“Work Your Way”: We empower people to work from where they work best. We believe work is something we do and not a place we go. Our offices have become important places for collaboration and social connection but are no longer our main place of work.

You will have access to a blended program of Wellbeing initiatives, including confidential access to our 24/7 Employee Assistance Program. Other benefits include 25 days holiday, life assurance, stakeholder pension (employer contribution is matched up to 12%), complimentary zoo tickets with a 30% discount in shops and online, subsidised canteen, enhanced paternity and maternity leave, season ticket loan, cycle to work scheme, subsidised gym membership and access to a wide range of learning and development opportunities.

Applicants will need to upload their CV and covering letter (detailing relevant experience and skills, stating why they want the position and including details of availability) and can do this by clicking the ”Apply for this job online” button.

Closing date for applications: Midnight (23:59) on Sunday 14 August 2022

The Zoological Society of London is a charity registered in England and Wales: no. 208728.