Monitoring, evaluation, and learning manager (MELM)| Iraq | 2021

Job Description

Chemonics seeks a MEL manager for the ongoing Iraq Regional Program, a United States Agency for International Development Office of Transition Initiatives (USAID/OTI) program based in Iraq. The Iraq Regional Program aims to increase stability in Iraq by supporting accelerated recovery in conflict-affected areas, improvement of the public’s perception of local leadership, and strengthened social fabric of Iraqi communities. The MEL Manager plays a central role in developing and implementing the project’s monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems, ensuring appropriate data capture, and reviewing the collection of data and quality of reports as it relates to programming. S/He will report directly to the chief of party and/or his/her designee. This long-term position is based in Erbil, Iraq, but may be subject to change in response due to security and operational requirements, including COVID-19-related travel restrictions. We are looking for individuals who have a passion for making a difference in the lives of people around the world.

Responsibilities include:

• Works closely with OTI and the COP to supervise the design and implementation of MEL tools, analyzing collected data to inform project design and development
• Supervises IRP’s MEL officers, MEL associates, Research Officer, and other staff as indicated by the COP. Mentors and supports MEL staff, as needed, integrating them in activity development, MEL, and research functions 
• Ensures that MEL team provides key impact information to inform project deliverables including success stories and quarterly and annual reports; ensures that impact information is reported in the OTI Activity Database, in coordination with the MEL officers and assistants across all program offices
• Develops and implements case studies, frameworks, cluster evaluations, and other communications products as needed, coordinating closely with OTI field and Washington teams, project management, and the entire program team, as well as supervision of external consultants, as required
• Establishes baselines and set targets for grantee’s activities, as well as contribute to the development of indicators; reports on and aggregates indicator data to show program impact
• Builds the capacity of both IRP’s staff and grantees to understand and uses MEL tools and to collect and share impact data
• Works with the MEL team and program staff to analyze and report on trends, lessons learned, and other factors that should better inform program development
• Works with the program and other teams, as well as with subcontractors and/or individuals engaged on short-term assignments to provide analysis of emerging political events in Iraq and recommendations to IRP leadership and OTI on how the project could address these events with grant or other activities; based on the results of research into the current environment in Iraq and results of MEL activities, recommends program activities for development and implementation
• Leads selected program initiatives and conduct other assignments, as assigned by the COP, to ensure the overall successful implementation of IRP

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field required; Master’s degree preferred
• At least three years of supervisory experience, with culturally and geographically diverse staff
• Prior experience in research, MEL, and/or related functions; experience working on USAID/OTI highly desirable
• Strong organizational, management and administrative skills with respect to research, analysis, and MEL
• Demonstrated analytical ability and up-to-date understanding and knowledge of the political environment and social conditions in Iraq, and the surrounding region; experience working in Iraq or other Middle Eastern countries preferred, but not required
• Proven understanding of how local and international NGOs and community-based organizations implement project activities and programs in country contexts with fluid social, political, economic, and security situations
• Experience with remote management in transitional state or fragile environments preferred, but not required
• Strong communication skills and ability to effectively lead within a collaborative, one-team management context required.
• Demonstrated leadership, versatility, and integrity
• Fluent written and spoken English required; Arabic language skills preferred

Application instructions:

Please send an email with your CV and cover letter attached, with “MEL Manager” in the subject line to irprecruit@chemonics.com by April 19, 2021. No telephone inquiries, please. Chemonics will contact finalists directly.

Chemonics is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in its selection and employment practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, or other non-merit factors.

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About the Organization

Founded in 1975, Chemonics is an international development consulting firm. In more than 70 countries around the globe, our network of 5,000 specialists share a simple belief: that the challenges we face today are best solved through the right partnerships — sharing knowledge, expertise, and experience to deliver results. As part of our culture and values, Chemonics is proud to be named a “Best Place to Work” in the Human Rights campaign Foundation’s 2021 Corporate Equality Index. Where Chemonics works, development works. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter or visit us at www.chemonics.com.