MEAL Manager II - TaMoLe Hub (Tanzania, Mozambique & Lesotho)

Position Overview

The MEAL Manager II will lead and provide technical guidance on Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning activities across Tanzania, Mozambique, and Lesotho within the TaMoLe ESARO hub. This role demands establishing robust monitoring frameworks, ensuring compliance with accountability standards, facilitating evaluations, and fostering continuous learning aligned with donor and organizational expectations. The position requires adaptation to shifting priorities across countries based on programmatic demands, emergency responses, and staffing dynamics.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and support MEAL system implementation in new and existing projects, ensuring adherence to CRS policies, donor regulations, and industry best practices throughout the project lifecycle.
• Deliver surge MEAL leadership during critical periods such as emergencies, project initiations, or staffing changes by acting as embedded MEAL Manager when necessary to maintain continuity and quality.
• Mentor and coach MEAL personnel, support their routine duties, and develop targeted individual development plans, also advising non-MEAL staff on related objectives.
• Oversee development and maintenance of data management systems that support adaptive program management.
• Establish and periodically assess beneficiary feedback and complaint response mechanisms (FCRM) to enhance accountability and timely response.
• Design and execute evaluation processes tailored to project requirements, including drafting comprehensive terms of reference.
• Promote cross-learning by organizing data-driven learning sessions and facilitating dissemination of promising practices to reinforce organizational and regional knowledge sharing.
• Integrate innovative technologies and best practices into MEAL processes, enhancing effectiveness and efficiency.
• Engage in strategic efforts to secure new funding aligned with organizational priorities, supporting MEAL components of proposals including budgeting and staffing.
• Develop and deliver capacity-building initiatives for staff and partners to strengthen MEAL competencies.
• Prioritize support efforts across the three countries in liaison with country and regional leaders, adjusting involvement based on evolving programmatic and organizational needs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in International Development, Statistics, Economics, or related discipline; relevant experience may substitute for educational requirements.
• Minimum of five years of relevant field experience, including at least three years specifically in MEAL roles.
• Solid quantitative analysis capabilities, proficient in statistical software like SPSS and ICT4D tools such as Power BI, CommCare, GIS.
• Skilled in qualitative research methodologies.
• Proven ability to manage MEAL systems within moderately complex project environments.
• Master’s degree and staff management experience preferred, including fostering environments conducive to learning and development.
• Experience designing and leading program evaluations and applying findings to adaptive management.
• Competence in managing donor-funded projects, particularly those involving multiple public donors including U.S. government grants.
• Strong proposal writing skills for MEAL components.
• Proficient with MS Office suite, web conferencing, and information management systems.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with a track record of providing innovative solutions.
• Effective relationship management skills capable of engaging stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong presentation and facilitation abilities.
• Fluency in English required.

Additional Details

• Travel: Anticipated travel up to 40% within the TaMoLe countries, variable depending on needs related to project phases, emergencies, or staffing.
• Supervisory duties are to be determined.
• Commitment to organizational competencies such as integrity, accountability, collaboration, openness to learning, and leadership in change management.
• Applicants must have legal authorization to work in the designated location and clear required medical examinations.
• Preference is given to citizens or permanent residents of the countries where CRS operates.
• The position includes a comprehensive benefits package aligned with local standards and U.S.-based staff benefits where applicable.
• The role is embedded within CRS’s safeguarding policy framework, ensuring protection of vulnerable groups.

About the Organization

Catholic Relief Services is a global humanitarian agency that serves vulnerable communities worldwide regardless of race, religion, or nationality. Through programs spanning emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding, CRS dedicates itself to saving and transforming lives. Staff from various faith traditions who align with CRS’s values are encouraged to join.