Manager – MEAL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability & Learning)

The Manager – MEAL will lead the design and implementation of robust MEAL systems to track, evaluate, and improve the impact of youth development and livelihoods programs. The role focuses on strengthening data systems, conducting actionable evaluations, and embedding learning loops across the organization. A key focus will be on integrating technology for real-time monitoring and using evidence to enhance youth-centric, scalable solutions. Key Responsibilities: Monitoring & Evaluation Design M&E frameworks and tools to track outcomes in youth skilling, career readiness, and livelihood programs. Oversee implementation of baseline, midline, and endline studies to assess youth transitions into employment, entrepreneurship, or education. Work with program teams to ensure timely and accurate data collection and use of key indicators. Develop and maintain program dashboards that track progress and highlight impact pathways. Technology & Data Systems Implement and manage digital tools (e.g., KoboToolbox, CommCare, Power BI) for efficient data capture, reporting, and visualization. Ensure effective use of youth feedback data (surveys, mobile apps, helplines) to shape program design and delivery. Explore and pilot technology-enabled methods to assess soft skills, career preparedness, and job retention. Accountability to Youth & Stakeholders Establish feedback and grievance mechanisms that enable youth voices to be heard and addressed. Promote inclusive M&E practices that reflect the perspectives of marginalized youth groups. Ensure donor and partner reporting is aligned with impact narratives and evidence. Learning & Adaptation Drive internal learning reviews, reflection workshops, and strategy adaptations based on field-level data. Generate learning reports, outcome stories, and case studies to inform program scale-up and advocacy. Foster a data-driven culture among teams through training and coaching. Capacity Building & Team Management Build the capacity of field and program teams on MEAL practices specific to youth and livelihoods programming. Collaborate with leadership to align MEAL strategy with organizational mission and sector innovations. Qualifications & Experience: Master’s degree in Social Sciences, Public Policy, Development Studies, Statistics, or related field. 8 years of experience in MEAL, with at least 3 years focused on youth development, employability, or livelihoods programs. Proven experience managing large surveys, evaluation studies, and impact assessments. Strong command of data tools (Excel, SPSS, STATA, or R) and digital platforms (ODK, KoboToolbox, Power BI, etc.). Experience in managing tech-enabled, youth-facing interventions or platforms is highly preferred. Excellent reporting, analysis, and communication skills for diverse audiences (donors, youth, partners). Desirable Attributes: Passion for working with youth and co-creating solutions that improve their career pathways. Ability to turn data into insights and drive strategic conversations. Experience working with grassroots youth, community-based organizations, or youth-led initiatives. Willingness to travel to project sites and engage closely with youth participants.