Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) Director - USAID-funded Private Sector Activity at CORUS International

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide day-to-day implementation of all MEL related activities under the project.
• Design and contribute to development of quantitative and qualitative tools and implementation of robust context-appropriate systems for data collection, quality assurance, analysis and reporting on activity outputs/outcomes and program quality.
• Oversee team that conducts data collection, entry, verification, analysis, and reporting on actual achievements against set targets, highlighting emerging patterns and offers clear reports on findings and conclusions. Ensures high quality data is reported.
• Operationalize a project collaborative learning and adaptive (CLA) approach by leading its implementation as per the MEL plan.
• Provide support for the recruitment of consultants and temporary field staff for MEL-related activities.
• Ensure high quality data quality, integrity and security standards and procedures are in place and are aligned with country national monitoring and evaluation guidelines, protocols, information, and reporting systems.
• Conduct analysis and contribute to preparation of required, periodic project reporting by capturing performance results and ensuring that lessons learned are integrated into project implementation to continuously improve quality of interventions and outcomes.
• Monitor implementation of learning agenda for identification of best practices and lessons learned and for adaptive and knowledge management.
• Provide data use training, mentoring, and coaching to project and subcontractor staff.
• Engage with private sector partners and local stakeholders to monitor the progress and success of activities.
• Design a reporting system that ensures regular data flow and utilization and provides insights on activity performance and areas, contributing towards strategic decision-making and project planning with project leadership.
• Work closely with project leadership, including partners and local stakeholders, to develop and implement a robust learning agenda for continuous learning, collaboration, and adaptation to further the project's learning agenda.
• Participate in relevant M&E technical working groups and coordinating bodies; work with relevant USAID, ministry departments and project staff on project-linked M&E as appropriate.
• Contribute to development and sharing of information and knowledge products with all relevant stakeholders in a timely manner.
• Contribute to annual workplan preparation in the design of MEL activities.

Qualifications:

• Master's degree in statistics, monitoring and evaluation, demography, social science, mathematics, economics, or relevant discipline. Significant study in the agricultural market field, international development and/or program monitoring and evaluation preferred.
• At least eight years of experience in the design and implementation of MEL in development projects implemented by national/international NGOs, preferably in agricultural markets.
• In-depth understanding of and expertise in USAID agriculture indicators, performance monitoring plans and reporting.
• Demonstrated experience in designing tools and strategies for data collection, analysis, and production of high-quality reports.
• Demonstrated experience in analyzing data using statistical software.
• Experience working with USAID funded projects in M&E capacity.
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills and ability to articulate technical information clearly and effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Deep knowledge of the political, social, and economic context of Kenya required, with experience working in Kenya preferred.
• Exceptional communication skills, including both written and oral presentation skills; proven ability to develop and communicate a common vision among diverse partners.
• English fluency with professional proficiency in writing required; knowledge of Swahili is an asset.
• Willingness and ability to travel to project sites within Kenya.