PROGRAM SUMMARY:
During this critical period in Yemen, Mercy Corps is not only providing humanitarian assistance but also working closely with its Yemeni partners and local communities to implement programs that emphasize long term development and resilience building. It is essential that Mercy Corps have strong systems in place to monitor, evaluate, and measure the impact of its work. The information gathered through these activities both helps Mercy Corps to strengthen its programming and assists us in remaining accountable to communities and donors alike.
GENERAL POSITION SUMMARY:
As Mercy Corps’ Yemen program enters a new phase, it is essential that the strongest possible systems are in place to support monitoring and evaluation. The Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialist will be responsible for developing these systems, training staff to use them, and ensuring that they are followed. S/he will serve as a resource for program staff, advising them on program design, gathering of baseline data, developing and implementing M&E plans and impact assessment. S/he will oversee staff charged with data tracking and reporting. S/he will also serve as the main point of contact for M&E issues with partners and donors.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
MEL System and Tool Development. The MEL Specialist will work with the country program team to upgrade existing, or institute new tools and systems, for program monitoring and learning. S/he will ensure that these systems and tools produce data and evidence that can be used to demonstrate the impact of Mercy Corps’ activities on the communities and individuals we serve.
Implementation of Baseline Study and Evaluations. Lead the design and implementation of project baseline studies, in coordination with Mercy Corps’ partners and program staff. Coordinate and oversee evaluations of Mercy Corps’ project activities.
Review and Support in Compilation of Reports. Support the MEL teams with the compilation and review of reports and assessments. Take the lead in the reviewing and advising, particularly on the analysis.
Training and Capacity Building. Develop and implement trainings for expatriate and national staff, ensuring that they have the tools and skills they need to appropriate design, monitor, and evaluate programs.
Team Management. Manage a team that is primarily responsible for data tracking and reporting. Build team members’ capacity and ensure close coordination with the program team.
Representation and Coordination. Represent Mercy Corps in meetings and discussions on all M&E issues with Mercy Corps’ implementing partners and donors. Ensure close coordination with the partners on a baseline study, development of a performance monitoring plan and common indicators, and evaluation.
General Management Support. Assist in the development of Mercy Corps Yemen strategic and operational plans.
Organizational Learning: As part of our commitment to organizational learning and in support of our understanding that learning organizations are more effective, efficient and relevant to the communities they serve - we expect all team members to commit 5% of their time to learning activities that benefit Mercy Corps as well as themselves.
Accountability to Beneficiaries: Mercy Corps team members are expected to support all efforts towards accountability, specifically to our beneficiaries and to international standards guiding international relief and development work, while actively engaging beneficiary communities as equal partners in the design, monitoring and evaluation of our field projects.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY: Deputy MEL Manager
ACCOUNTABILITY:
Reports directly to:Director of Programs
Works directly with: Program Managers, Heads of Office, Communications Manager and MEL national staff.
Collaborates with: All Mercy Corps programs and operations staff.
KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE:
Bachelor’s degree in related field.
3-5 years relevant professional experience, including at least four years working in M&E for non-governmental organizations working in international relief and development.
Experience in developing and implementing baseline studies and evaluations.
Experience living and working in an insecure environment
Significant experience in training and capacity building.
Experience with USAID or other donors.
Strong knowledge of computer programs typically used for data tracking and reporting (e.g., Excel, Access, or others).
Excellent oral and written communications skills (English). Arabic skills preferred.
SUCCESS FACTORS:
The successful candidate will have the ability to work closely with a diverse team of individuals in a highly intense and fluid work and security environment. S/He will be able to communicate and manage effectively in a situation that relies primarily on remote management. S/He will strictly adhere to Mercy Corps security policies and procedures and have respect for local cultural norms and traditions and have the ability to live in Middle Eastern cultural environment. The candidate will have the capacity to spark innovative and entrepreneurial approaches to programming and to inspire groups to collaborate closely to implement high-quality programs. S/He will have the desire and ability to learn and grow, both personally and professionally.
LIVING /ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:
This unaccompanied position is based in the city of Aden, Yemen, with frequent travel to Mercy Corps offices in Taiz and Sana’a or other areas if required and if security allows. Strict adherence to Mercy Corps security policies and procedures will be required as will respect for local cultural norms and traditions. Security conditions in the country are variable, with a range of violence and insecurity, requiring close monitoring and vigilance. Conflict and corruption have also badly damaged the country’s infrastructure. Air travel is necessary to get from one end of the country to the other, though the road network is good, the security situation often precludes travel by road. There is a land line telephone system, a somewhat reliable cellular phone system and internet is available in the residences and offices. Candidates must be able to work in an environment with energy, transportation and communication challenges.
Mercy Corps team members represent the agency both during and outside of work hours when deployed in a field posting or on a visit/TDY to a field posting. Staff are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner and respect local laws, customs and Mercy Corps’ policies, procedures, and values at all times and in all in-country venues.
