MERL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning) Specialists

MEDA’s work is built on a foundation of Mennonite business roots and faith-based values, within the global context of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Business solutions are seen as effective interventions to address poverty. Through a market-systems approach and strategic partnerships, MEDA enables access to finance and provides business and technical expertise to build transformative agri-food market systems that create decent jobs, allowing traditionally excluded groups to become active participants in a sustainable economy. MEDA welcomes all who share these values and are aligned with its mission.

The $200 million Mastercard Foundation Africa Growth Fund, led by the Mastercard Foundation and implemented by MEDA, supports early-stage, growth-focused African SMEs, with a focus on gender equity and economic transformation. Recent investments in African-led ventures highlight its commitment to regional growth.

For more information, visit www.meda.org | Mastercard Foundation Africa Growth Fund - MEDA   

About the role

Each MERL Specialist will provide support to the Director of MERL in ensuring effective Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning systems and processes are in place for the Mastercard Foundation Africa Growth Fund initiative, in their respective regions. The role requires a strong research and impact measurement background with experience in impact investing, entrepreneurship development and job creation. The MERL Specialist will work closely with MEDA’s Monitoring and Impact Measurement (MIM) department, Learning Partner Organization (LPO), and the Mastercard Foundation’s external Impact Partner Organization.

Key dimensions of the role

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Data Analysis and Reporting (30%)

• Continuously analyze the Fund's portfolio performance and prepare timely quarterly reports.
• Support the Learning Partner in gathering data from Investment Vehicles (IVs) and Portfolio Companies (PCs).
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), financials, and impact metrics.
• Identify trends, strengths, weaknesses, and potential risks, providing recommendations.
• Collaborate with partners to prepare detailed quarterly performance reports with insights and recommendations.

 Learning and Knowledge Sharing (20%)

• Develop evidence-based learning products (reports, briefs, case studies, toolkits, etc.).
• Ensure alignment of learning products with the Fund’s objectives.
• Support the Learning and Communications Partner in knowledge dissemination at events.

MERL System Implementation (20%)

• Improve the Fund’s MERL systems for better data collection and visualization.
• Maintain and optimize the Fund’s dashboards (Impact, ESG/GDEI).
• Train partners, IVs, and PCs on tracking and reporting impact data.
• Ensure data collection aligns with donor requirements and Fund objectives.

Capacity Building (20%)

• Enhance impact measurement capabilities for IVs and PCs through training.
• Support alignment of MERL requirements with IVs' investor reports.
• Regularly check in with IVs and PCs, gathering feedback to improve capacity-building efforts

Other Duties (10%)

• Participate in MERL and partner meetings.
• Prepare partners for the Consortium retreat and ecosystem events.
• Support internal learning meetings and additional tasks as needed.

Skills and experience

The desired candidate will have but not limited to:

• Master’s in International Development, Economics and Statistics, Sociology or a related field.

• Ideal to have 4 to 6 years of experience in Impact Measurement, MERL Systems, as well as supervisory & managerial capacity.
• Experience in impact investing, entrepreneurship, and job creation.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills.
• Ability to integrate information technology and automated data systems into MERL processes.
• Knowledge of Gender and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) frameworks, with the ability to integrate these into MERL processes. Data visualization and PowerPoint presentation skills.
• Experience managing complex MERL systems and working in partnership-type interventions.
• Excellent relationship management, networking, presentation, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in diverse cultural settings.
• Proficiency in English; French or regional languages are an asset.

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This job description may be reviewed, revised and updated as required to meet department and/or organizational objectives. MEDA is an equal opportunity employer and accommodations are available during all phases of the recruitment process. We ask that any applicants requiring accommodation make their needs known in advance.

Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women and people of colour are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At Millar Cameron, we are dedicated to supporting our Clients in building and supporting diverse and inclusive workplaces and culture, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles. 

Since 2007 Millar Cameron has specialised in sourcing leadership and keyperson talent across a number of industries, including agribusiness, international development, industrial, consumer, financial and professional services, private equity, and technology, media and telecommunications. Our mission and purpose is to positively contribute to the development of Africa, and other emerging markets, through the provision of people.