Senior Manager – Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) – Nairobi, Kenya

Job Title: Senior Manager – Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) – Nairobi, Kenya

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Position: Senior Manager, Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning
Company: Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) and World Agroforestry (ICRAF)
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Type of Job: Global Position
Reporting to: AWARD Senior Management
Application Deadline: November 1, 2024

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Introduction

CIFOR-ICRAF is seeking a dedicated Senior Manager in Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning to lead strategic efforts in compiling and analyzing critical data that drives impactful agricultural and environmental research across Africa. This Nairobi-based role presents a unique opportunity to work with a team passionate about advancing sustainable practices and developing high-impact, data-driven solutions. As part of CIFOR-ICRAF’s commitment to equity, environment, and innovation, this position offers the chance to shape frameworks that contribute directly to positive environmental change, expand research visibility, and enhance knowledge-sharing globally.

Key Responsibilities

Monitoring and Evaluation

• Develop and Update Frameworks: Lead the development and continuous improvement of the Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) tools and frameworks, ensuring they align with AWARD’s strategic goals and are adaptable to various initiatives.
• Implementation and Reporting: Coordinate MEL activities across diverse AWARD programs, focusing on data-driven solutions and outcomes, as well as comprehensive reporting methods.
• Project Oversight: Provide strategic guidance for ongoing projects, ensuring data quality and consistent tracking of key metrics.
• Indicator Development: Formulate sound, measurable indicators to monitor progress effectively and enable regular data collection and analysis.
• Quality Assurance: Implement control protocols to ensure accuracy and consistency in all evaluation data.

Reporting, Stakeholder Engagement, and Fundraising

• Engage Stakeholders: Collaborate with AWARD’s stakeholders, including senior management, partners, and beneficiaries, to communicate MEL findings effectively.
• Proposal Development: Provide insightful MEL content for funding proposals, contributing to successful grant applications.
• Grant Review: Assess existing grants’ performance, using insights to drive continuous improvements in future initiatives.

Knowledge Generation and Dissemination

• Knowledge Consolidation: Maintain an updated repository of research findings, best practices, and key insights from AWARD’s initiatives, translating them into shareable formats.
• Internal and External Dissemination: Share findings within the organization and at international conferences to strengthen the visibility of AWARD’s work.

Capacity Development for Staff and Partners

• Guidance and Training: Conduct workshops to support partners and stakeholders in applying MEL frameworks and interpreting findings.
• Staff Development: Lead training sessions for AWARD team members to ensure alignment with best practices in evaluation methods.

Team Leadership and Management

• Supervision: Oversee unit staff, fostering a collaborative and motivated team environment.
• Problem-Solving: Act as a role model in handling complex issues, supporting overall team growth.

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Qualifications and Skills

Essential Qualifications:

• Master’s Degree or Higher: Minimum qualifications include a Master’s degree in Monitoring and Evaluation, Development Studies, or related disciplines.
• Extensive Experience: At least 10 years of relevant experience, with a minimum of 5 years in a management role within the MEL field.
• Gender and Agriculture Knowledge: Strong understanding of gender considerations in agriculture and social issues pertinent to African development.

Preferred Skills:

• Analytical Expertise: Proficiency in quantitative and qualitative data analysis.
• Communication Skills: Ability to communicate findings clearly and effectively to diverse audiences.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Skilled in building and nurturing partnerships for successful project implementation.

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Company Culture and Values

CIFOR-ICRAF upholds a mission-driven culture dedicated to advancing sustainable practices, scientific research, and community empowerment. As an organization that values diversity, inclusivity, and equity, CIFOR-ICRAF believes that creating impactful, science-based solutions for today’s environmental challenges begins with a committed and collaborative team. The work environment is supportive, innovative, and dedicated to both personal and professional growth. Employees are encouraged to take initiative, make meaningful contributions, and develop expertise in their respective fields.

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Apply Now for Senior Manager – Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL)

To join a leading global team driving environmental and agricultural solutions, apply for the Senior Manager – MEL position by clicking on the “Apply Now” button or by visiting CIFOR-ICRAF’s official website. Applications are open until November 1, 2024.

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Expert Tips for a Successful Application

1. Tailor Your Resume to Highlight MEL Experience
   • Example Answer: Emphasize specific MEL achievements with tangible outcomes, such as “Developed and implemented MEL frameworks for [X project], resulting in a 20% improvement in data tracking accuracy.”
2. Research CIFOR-ICRAF’s Mission and Values
   • Example Answer: “I am particularly inspired by CIFOR-ICRAF’s dedication to sustainable practices and the integration of agroforestry as a solution for environmental challenges.”
3. Showcase Your Analytical Abilities with Concrete Examples
   • Example Answer: “In my previous role, I led data analysis efforts for a regional project that identified critical intervention points, enhancing impact by 15%.”
4. Prepare for Behavioral Questions
   • Example Answer: “I successfully led a multi-disciplinary team through challenging project timelines by fostering open communication and setting clear objectives.”
5. Demonstrate Familiarity with Proposal Development
   • Example Answer: Describe your experience with grant applications or donor reporting to showcase your ability to support fundraising efforts.
6. Utilize Keywords in Your Application to Bypass ATS Systems
   • Example Answer: Incorporate terms such as “MEL frameworks,” “data-driven analysis,” “monitoring tools,” and “stakeholder engagement” in your resume.
7. Showcase Leadership in Complex Projects
   • Example Answer: “Led a team of five in a high-stakes MEL project, successfully coordinating across departments to streamline processes and achieve results.”
8. Prepare to Discuss Gender and Agriculture Issues
   • Example Answer: Highlight specific gender considerations in your experience, such as, “Ensured that gender equity was a foundational component in our evaluation methodologies.”
9. Align Your Goals with CIFOR-ICRAF’s Vision
   • Example Answer: “I am eager to contribute to CIFOR-ICRAF’s goals by applying my expertise in evaluation frameworks to facilitate data-driven decision-making.”
10. Be Specific in Outlining Your MEL Tools Proficiency
    • Example Answer: “Proficient in MEL tools including [list tools], allowing me to establish effective evaluation frameworks and optimize data collection.”

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Equal Opportunity Statement

“We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to attracting and retaining the best employees from all backgrounds. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.”

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