Senior MERL Manager

About the role

The Senior MERL Manager will lead the Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning (MERL) function for the Building Community Engagement in Papua New Guinea (BCEP) program, a major initiative funded by the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Reporting to program leadership, the role ensures high‑quality evidence generation, supports accountability, and drives adaptive management across the project.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement the program’s MERL strategy and work plans.
• Oversee monitoring systems, data collection, and analysis to produce timely donor reports.
• Design and manage evaluations and research studies, including qualitative and quantitative analyses.
• Translate findings into actionable insights for program improvement and learning.
• Build and strengthen MERL capacity among staff and partner organisations.
• Lead, mentor and supervise the MERL team, fostering a collaborative environment.
• Maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, including donors, government agencies and community partners.

Required profile

• Extensive experience leading MERL functions in large donor‑funded development programmes.
• Proven ability to design and operate MERL systems and manage complex evaluations.
• Strong analytical skills with experience handling both qualitative and quantitative data.
• Demonstrated people‑leadership experience, including team management and mentorship.
• Excellent communication and facilitation abilities for diverse audiences.

Required skills

• Monitoring & Evaluation methodology
• Research design and implementation
• Data analysis (qualitative and quantitative)
• Donor reporting and compliance

What we offer

• Opportunity to work on a high‑impact program promoting participatory democracy.
• Collaboration with leading experts in development and governance.
• Competitive remuneration and benefits package.