Job Description
Job Summary
- The MERL Advisor will lead and ensure the high-quality design, implementation, and capacity building for MERL activities in the PHC strengthening project, driving data-driven decision-making and supporting the project's strategic goals.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement a comprehensive MERL strategy that aligns with project objectives and donor requirements.
- Ensure that MERL activities are integrated into the project cycle from the design phase through implementation and close-out.
- Design and oversee the implementation of robust monitoring and evaluation frameworks, including indicators, tools, and methodologies.
- Ensure timely and accurate data collection, analysis, and reporting.
- Develop and implement data quality assurance mechanisms to ensure the reliability and validity of data.
- Conduct regular field visits to monitor the implementation of project activities and verify data accuracy.
- Lead the design and implementation of operational research studies to generate evidence for decision-making and policy development.
- Promote a culture of learning and continuous improvement by facilitating knowledge-sharing and reflective practices within the project team and among stakeholders.
- Synthesize and disseminate research findings, lessons learned, and best practices through reports, presentations, and publications.
- Build a maturity model to track the progress of the PFM system in the state
- Develop tools and support the institutionalization of result-based budgeting.
- Utilize advanced data analysis techniques and software to generate insights and inform programmatic decisions.
- Conduct a 360° rapid diagnostic assessment of the PHC system to identify strengths, weaknesses, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement.
- Collaborate with other project teams and stakeholders to ensure alignment and coherence in MERL activities.
Education and/or Work Experience Requirements
- Degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, Statistics, or a related field.
- Minimum of 8 years of experience in Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning
- Proven experience working on donor-funded projects or in NGO settings.
- Strong background in data management, statistical analysis, and research methodologies.
Desired Competencies:
- Excellent analytical skills
- Problem-solving skills, with proficiency in statistical software (e.g., SPSS, STATA, R).
- Expertise with Data visualization software (Power B.I)
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Stakeholder management and networking skills
- Experience working in multicultural and multidisciplinary teams.
- Familiarity with the health landscape in Nigeria, particularly in Kano State.
- Commitment to promoting gender equality, equity, and social inclusion in MERL activities.