JOB TITLE: MEAL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning) Officer
BASE LOCATION: Field-based Focus project areas: Maguindanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, and North Cotabato with possible travel to other areas within the Philippines, if deemed necessary.
DEPARTMENT / PURPOSE:
Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) Department. The MEAL Department leads in enhancing the quality and accountability of IRW’s work to empower communities. It oversees the MEAL system to make sure that all projects are continually being monitored for effectiveness and appropriateness and that all lessons are documented and communicated to inform the ongoing implementation of projects and future programming. It guides the Country Office in achieving the outcome of the projects and accountability to beneficiaries in line with the policies, standards and guidelines of IRW and donors.
REPORTING TO: MEAL Coordinator
JOB PURPOSE
To assist in establishing and managing the MEAL requirements of IR Philippines projects in accordance with the donor requirements and MEAL framework of Islamic Relief Worldwide.
JOB SUMMARY
The MEAL Officer shall assist the programme teams, in establishing, maintaining, and managing a database system and MEAL-related data/information, researches, studies, and monitoring and evaluation reports in accordance with IRW’s MEAL framework, values and standards. S/he shall ensure that the internal and external MEAL requirements of IR Philippines project/s are implemented with quality in alignment with the results or logical framework, and according to the plans, targets and timelines.
S/he shall also support in establishing Accountability mechanism based on IRW’s Complaints and Feedback Mechanism (CFM) using different modalities, and assist in conducting CFM orientation to partner communities, rightsholders, and other stakeholders. S/he shall also assist in the development of concept notes and project proposals; facilitation of project reviews and evaluation; preparation of reports and project updates; and documentation of project lessons learnt and better practices.
The MEAL Officer shall work closely with the programme/project teams under the direct supervision of the MEAL Coordinator. S/he shall also represent IRW-Philippines in various forums and/or events organized by other development and humanitarian organized, as necessary.
MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Establishing database and MEAL system
- Learn IRW’s MEAL Framework, quality standards, policies and processes.
- Assist in establishing and managing an effective database and monitoring and evaluation system for IR Philippines programmes and projects.
- Ensure that the programme teams meet all internal and external MEAL requirements on time with credible information.
- Support the MEAL coordinator in strengthening the MEAL systems and processes of IR Philippines to guarantee the achievement of intended impact and results/outcomes of programmes and projects.
- Regularly update the projects’ MEAL plan and Indicator Tracking Table (ITT) and monitor the right holders/beneficiaries reached per project.
- Assist in conducting internal and external programme/project evaluations and ensure the conduct of baseline, midline, and endline evaluations, and post distribution monitoring (PDM), as necessary.
- Assist the programme/project teams during concept note and proposal development; tactical and strategic planning; mid-term and end-of project reviews; and, exit strategy and sustainability planning with community partners and stakeholders.
- Prepare monitoring reports and assist in preparing project reports in accordance with the projects’ logical/results framework and MEAL plan.
- Ensure that verifiable data are regularly collected and analyzed across programmes/projects and shared with relevant stakeholders, internally and externally, to inform programme/project design and strategies.
- Support the MEAL Coordinator and Programme Team in ensuring that all programmes/projects are designed and implemented in accordance with international standards (e.g., SPHERE, CHS, MERS).
Demonstrating Accountability to Affected Populations
- Facilitate the development of an accountability action plan for IR Philippines projects and keep track of the progress.
- Assist in setting up community feedback mechanisms using different modalities that are appropriate to the needs of the rightsholders and stakeholders.
- Ensure the establishment and maintenance of a comprehensive complaints handling mechanism in accordance with IRW’s Complaints policy and Core Humanitarian Standards (CHS) requirements.
- Assist in developing case studies about the effectiveness of the complaints handling system and its impact on the IR Philippines programmes.
- Ensure that results of programme/project assessments, baselines, reviews, and evaluations are shared with the programme/project teams and other units, as necessary.
- Provide technical assistance and guidance to the programme/project teams in conducting participatory, community-based, and inclusive needs assessments, and participatory beneficiary selection.
- Assist in providing training and coaching to IR Philippines staff in mainstreaming accountability across its operations.
- Ensure that Safeguarding and Child Protection Policies are considered and integrated into project implementation.
Organizational Learning and Capacity Building
- Assist in the establishment of an organizational learning system (learning log) that captures issues and concerns, mitigating measures and better practices across the different units/departments of IR Philippines.
- Support the Programme Team in organizing learning events in accordance with the programme plans and project designs.
- Support in the identification and documentation of new innovations in programming and ensure evidence-based results are shared with relevant stakeholders (internal and external) and applied in designing future programmes/projects.
- Support the Programme and Communications Departments in the development of relevant modules and resource materials to support quality programming.
- Assist in conducting MEAL-related capacity-building activities for staff and partner organizations.
- Participate in the project design process as a team member to ensure prior internal and external learning, community-based and inclusive needs assessment and evidence inform project design.
Support to Program Management
- Assist the MEAL Coordinator in managing the programme/project processes to ensure compliance with CHS and IHSAN Standards (IRW Quality Management System).
- Provide technical support in the development of project-specific baseline and endline surveys and review the survey reports.
- Work with the programme and finance teams in identifying MEAL-related activities for inclusion in planning and budgeting.
- Represent Islamic Relief Philippines in coordination bodies and participate in webinars, workshops, meetings, and other relevant events at national, regional, and global levels, as necessary.
ACCOUNTABILITIES
- Operational MEAL system.
- Operational Complaints-Response Mechanism.
- Contribute to the conduct of yearly self-assessments and create action plans on IHSAN-based scoring.
- Timely submission of quality internal and external reports.
- Learnings documented and shared internally and externally.
- Regular, timely, and context-specific feedback to management and project implementers particularly those that need immediate resolution.
- Work independently on assigned tasks with minimal supervision.
- Work in adherence to IRW’s policies and procedures.
PERSONAL SPECIFICATION
ESSENTIAL
Qualifications
University degree in Social Sciences. A Post-Graduate Degree is an advantage.
Knowledge/Experience
Minimum of two (2) years’ experience in monitoring and evaluation, research, and impact assessment of projects.
Good knowledge of Results-Based Monitoring (RBM), Value for Money, Do No Harm, DRM, Complaints management and report writing.
Experience and knowledge of database, qualitative and quantitative analysis, and mapping software.
Good knowledge of current development and MEAL thinking. Knowledge and experience of technology and technological solutions for MEAL.
Knowledge and experience about CHS Verification Framework.
Skills
Strong analytical and conceptualization skills and ability to think critically and strategically.
Highly organized with good attention to details and the ability to prioritize multiple tasks to meet tight deadlines.
Excellent verbal and written skills and can communicate and report on technical points.
Communicates honestly, openly, and consistently with a positive viewpoint.
Shares information appropriately and ensures that the views of team members are freely expressed.
Familiar with online data collection platforms such as KoBoToolbox.
Good numeracy skills with knowledge of budgeting and cost estimation processes are required.
Problem-solving skills and self-management.
Good interpersonal skills and the ability to work sensitively with people from various cultural and social backgrounds.
Willing to adapt to IRW’s norms and values without compromising personal beliefs and principles.
Languages
Fluency in Filipino and English (written and spoken) is essential; and able to communicate in Maranao, Maguindanaon, and Tausug is an advantage.
IT Skills
Knowledge of Microsoft Office applications such as Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
DESIRABLE
Knowledge/Experience
Functional knowledge of statistics and data processing.
Experience in collecting and analyzing quantitative and qualitative data.
Experience in integrated programme/community development.
Skills
In-depth knowledge and commitment to participatory approaches and people empowerment.
Good knowledge of globally accepted humanitarian technical standards and initiatives e.g., Sphere, MERS, LEGS, INEE, CALP, SGDs, Inclusion Charter, ADCAP.
Disposition/Approach
Able to work flexible hours when necessary to carry out the task that requires completion.
Politically, faith, gender, and culturally sensitive with qualities of patience, tact, and diplomacy.
Ability to work on one’s initiative as well as a part of a team.
Have a high sense of urgency and a well-developed work ethic.
Able to show a good understanding of humanitarian principles and empathy and commitment to Islamic Relief’s values: Sincerity, Excellence, Compassion, Social Justice, and Custodianship; and with Islamic Relief’s vision and mission.
Physical
Energetic and able to function in challenging situations.
Interests
Humanitarian relief, development, Disaster Risk Reduction, Community Development, etc.
Competencies Required:
Teamwork: Work productively with a broad range of team members, actively participate in and support team decisions, and openly share knowledge, expertise, or experience with team members. Takes and gives constructive actions and feedback to team members.
Action Management: Effectively manages own work related to multiple tasks or activities. Recognizes opportunities or threats and acts on them with the agreement of the supervisor. Responds quickly to emergencies with a solution or a decision. Evaluates own strengths and developmental needs and modifies behavior based on feedback or self-analysis.
Communication: Presents information clearly and concisely, verbally and in writing. Listens to and shows understanding of ideas and views of others. Adapts level of language and/or complexity of content to an audience. Shares information and knowledge with colleagues, staff, and supervisors. Communicates respectfully with all individuals regardless of gender, age, diversity, nationality, and cultural background.
Interpersonal Relations: Respects differing needs and viewpoints. Resolves personal and professional disagreements constructively. Builds effective working relationships within the unit/division/office. Demonstrates sensitivity, tact, and empathy for others.
Organizational Awareness: Develops a sound understanding of own area of activity as well as IRPH structure, mandate, vision, and key priorities. Prioritizes own work activities following the Unit’s mandate. Develop a sound understanding of policies and procedures that are related to own work. Recognizes operational problems and issues as opportunities for improvement. Knows key clients and beneficiaries of IRPH services.
Our values and commitment to safeguarding
IRW is committed to preventing any type of unwanted behavior at work including sexual harassment, exploitation and abuse, lack of integrity and financial misconduct; and committed to promoting the welfare of children, young people, adults and beneficiaries with whom IRW engages. IRW expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment through our code of conduct. We place a high priority on ensuring that only those who share and demonstrate our values are recruited to work for us.
The post holder will undertake the appropriate level of training and is responsible for ensuring that they understand and work within the safeguarding policies of the organisation.
All offers of employment will be subject to satisfactory references and appropriate screening checks, which can include criminal records checks. IRW also participates in the Inter Agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme.
In line with this Scheme, we will request information from job applicants’ previous employers about any findings of sexual exploitation, sexual abuse and/or sexual harassment during employment, or incidents under investigation when the applicant left employment.
By submitting an application, the job applicant confirms his/her understanding of these recruitment procedures.
How to apply
Interested applicants should send their CV with a cover letter on or before **24 January 2024,**to HR.Philippines@islamic-relief.org.ph with email subject or reference: MEAL Officer Application.
Islamic Relief Worldwide is a humanitarian and development organization and working in Livelihood, WASH, Education and DRR sectors in line with our vision of a caring world where communities are empowered, social obligations are fulfilled, and people respond as one to the suffering of others. We work regardless of ethnicity, religion, political affiliation, or gender.
This position is open for Filipino nationals only, women are strongly encouraged to apply.
Selection will be based on application letter, CV, interview, and other relevant documents (as requested). Only short-listed applicants will be contacted.
Walk-in applicants and applications sent through Islamic Relief Philippines social media account i.e., Facebook, will not be entertained.
As the position needs to be filled in on an urgent basis, therefore, we may stop receiving applications as soon as there are applicants suitable for the position.