MEL and Funder Reporting Manager

Role Summary

The MEL and Funder Reporting Manager will be a key member of the program team, responsible for designing, implementing, and managing the Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning framework for our pan-India women's economic empowerment initiatives. This role is crucial for ensuring that we effectively track our progress, measure our impact, and meet the reporting requirements of our various funders. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical skills, a passion for data-driven decision-making, and a deep understanding of the socio-economic context of women in India.

Key Responsibilities

1. Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) System Management

• Design and implement a robust MEL framework, including a Theory of Change, Logical Framework, and a comprehensive M&E plan for the program.
• Develop and refine data collection tools and methodologies (e.g., surveys, focus group discussions, interviews) that are gender-sensitive and culturally appropriate.
• Oversee the implementation of an effective Management Information System to ensure timely, accurate, and high-quality data collection from the field.
• Conduct regular data quality assessments to ensure the reliability of collected data.
• Track and monitor project progress against key performance indicators (KPIs) and targets.
• Conduct periodic field visits to monitor program activities and ensure data quality.

2. Funder Reporting and Compliance

• Prepare and submit high-quality, timely, and evidence-based reports to all funders, as per their specific requirements and guidelines.
• Ensure the program is compliant with all relevant national and international regulations, including the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act in India.
• Work closely with the finance team to ensure financial data aligns with program outcomes for all reporting.
• Create compelling impact stories and case studies to highlight program successes and learning for both internal and external stakeholders.

3. Learning and Knowledge Management

• Lead the analysis of quantitative and qualitative data to generate actionable insights and inform program adjustments.
• Facilitate regular learning sessions with the program team and partners to share findings, discuss challenges, and identify best practices.
• Document lessons learned and best practices to inform the design of future programs and projects.
• Support the development of knowledge products such as research briefs, learning papers, and presentations.

4. Capacity Building

• Train and mentor program staff and implementing partners on MEL concepts, tools, and data collection methodologies.
• Provide technical assistance to partners to strengthen their own MEL systems and reporting capabilities.

Qualifications and Skills

• Education: A Master's degree in Social Sciences, Development Studies, Statistics, Public Policy, or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 7-10 years of professional experience in Monitoring and Evaluation, with a significant portion of that experience in the development sector, preferably in women's economic empowerment, livelihoods, or entrepreneurship.
• Technical Skills: Demonstrated experience in designing and managing MEL frameworks and systems.
• Proficiency in data analysis and visualization tools (e.g., Excel, Power BI, SPSS, or R).Experience with digital data collection platforms (e.g., Kobo Toolbox, ODK, Survey CTO).
• Strong knowledge of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies.
• Soft Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with proven ability to write clear and concise reports for diverse audiences.
  Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Fluency in English is required; proficiency in one or more Indian languages is an asset.
• Willingness to travel frequently across India to program locations.
• Contextual Knowledge: A strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to women's entrepreneurship and livelihoods in the Indian context.