Monitoring, Evaluation & Research Lead

About the role

The Monitoring, Evaluation & Research Lead will design, implement and continuously improve the organisation's M&E framework to support strategic objectives and programme delivery. Reporting to senior management, the role ensures data‑driven decision‑making across all projects and fosters a culture of evidence‑based learning.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and operationalise a comprehensive monitoring, evaluation and learning (MEL) framework aligned with programme goals.
• Design monitoring tools, indicators, targets and data collection methodologies for all projects.
• Conduct regular field monitoring visits, assess progress against plans and identify implementation gaps.
• Maintain robust data management systems, ensuring data quality, storage, and timely reporting.
• Lead research activities, including baseline studies, needs assessments and outcome evaluations.
• Analyse quantitative and qualitative data, produce dashboards, reports and visualisations for donors and stakeholders.
• Prepare periodic M&E reports and provide actionable insights beyond raw data.
• Facilitate learning sessions, document lessons learned and promote evidence‑based improvements.

Required profile

• Minimum 8 years (96 months) of progressive experience in monitoring, evaluation and research, preferably in NGOs or development programmes.
• Senior‑level expertise with a proven track record of designing MEL frameworks and leading evaluations.
• Strong analytical mindset with ability to translate data into strategic recommendations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for reporting to donors, partners and senior leadership.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with programme teams and external partners.

Required skills