JOB DETAILS:
Position Overview
The Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning (MEL) Specialist will be responsible for designing, implementing, and managing the monitoring, evaluation, and learning framework of Refactory’s programs. This role involves developing robust monitoring systems, conducting evaluations, analysing data, and providing strategic recommendations to optimise program effectiveness and impact. The role ensures that program activities are continuously improved through evidence-based learning and informed decision-making.

Key Responsibilities:
Monitoring System Development:
• Design, Develop and implement a comprehensive monitoring and evaluation (M&E) framework for the tech skilling programs, including logframes, key performance indicators, data collection tools, and reporting mechanisms.
• Develop monitoring plans, data collection protocols, and data management systems to track program activities, outputs, outcomes, and impacts.

Data Collection and Analysis:
• Coordinate data collection efforts, including surveys, interviews, focus group discussions, and other methods to assess program performance and outcomes.
• Analyse quantitative and qualitative data to generate insights into program effectiveness, identify trends, and assess progress towards program objectives.
• Utilise statistical analysis software and data visualisation tools to present findings in a clear and meaningful manner.

Evaluation and Impact Assessment:
• Plan and conduct evaluations, including baseline assessments, mid-term reviews, and end-of-project evaluations, to assess program outcomes and impacts.
• Collaborate with external evaluators, consultants, or research partners to conduct rigorous evaluations and assessments.
• Analyse and interpret data to assess the relevance, effectiveness, impact, and sustainability of the project.
• Synthesise evaluation findings and produce high-quality evaluation reports with actionable recommendations for program improvement.

Learning and Knowledge Management:
• Facilitate learning activities, knowledge-sharing sessions, and reflection exercises to capture lessons learned and best practices from program implementation.
• Document success stories, case studies, and innovations emerging from the program to inform future programming and advocacy efforts.
• Ensure that lessons learned and insights from monitoring and evaluation activities are effectively communicated and incorporated into program strategic planning and decision-making processes.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement by embedding MEL processes into daily activities.

Capacity Building and Technical Assistance:
• Provide training and technical assistance to program staff, partners, and stakeholders on M&E concepts, tools, and methodologies.
• Build the capacity of program staff to collect, manage, and analyze data effectively and use M&E findings to improve program performance.
• Support program teams in developing and implementing learning agendas, adaptive management approaches, and evidence-based programming strategies.

Reporting and Documentation
• Ensure timely and accurate reporting of MEL results to funders, partners, and internal stakeholders.
• Develop regular progress reports and contribute to donor reports, proposals, and other documents as required.
• Maintain an organised system for managing data, reports, and other MEL-related documentation.

Qualifications and Experience:
• Master's degree or equivalent in monitoring and evaluation, statistics, social sciences, or a related field.
• At least 7 years of relevant experience in designing, implementing, and managing monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems for development programs, preferably in the education or technology sector.
• Strong quantitative and qualitative research skills, including experience with data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software (e.g Advanced Excel, SPSS, STATA, R) and data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI).
• Experience conducting impact assessments, and performance evaluations using a variety of evaluation designs and methodologies.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and provide actionable recommendations.
• Excellent communication, writing, and presentation skills, with the ability to translate complex data and technical concepts into clear and actionable insights.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in multicultural and interdisciplinary teams, manage multiple tasks simultaneously, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience working with international donor-funded projects and familiarity with donor reporting requirements and compliance standards is desirable.

Reporting Structure:
The MEL Specialist will report to the Head of Strategy and Analytics, and work closely with the Programs and Business Growth Teams.