Country MERL Specialist
Provide specialist guidance on MERL initiatives in line with organizational policies.
Overview
Provide specialist guidance on MERL initiatives in line with organizational policies.
You have:
- Bachelor’s degree in Development Studies, Statistics, Social Sciences, Social Work, or a related field.
- Additional training at Post Graduate level in Monitoring and Evaluation, project planning and management or a related field is an asset.
- At least 5 years of experience in providing MERL for projects in development and humanitarian contexts.
Plan International is an independent development and humanitarian organization that advances children’s rights and equality for girls. We believe in the power and potential of every child. We support children’s rights from birth until they reach adulthood and we enable children to prepare for – and respond to – crises and adversity.
We drive changes in practice and policy at local, national and global levels using our reach, experience and knowledge. In Zimbabwe, we have been building powerful partnerships for children for over 31 years. Plan International operates an equal opportunities policy and actively encourages diversity.
Reporting to the Head of MERL Southern Africa and working closely with the Head of Programs the incumbent will be responsible for providing specialist guidance on MERL initiatives in line with organizational policies and standards.
Accountabilities
- Monitoring & Performance Management
- Program Quality and Innovation
- Knowledge Management & Learning
- Evaluation and Research
- Capacity Building
- Safeguarding, Gender Equality & Inclusion
The individual
Desired skills and competencies
- Bachelor’s degree in Development Studies Statistics, Social Sciences, Social Work, or a related field.
- Additional training at Post Graduate level in Monitoring and Evaluation, project planning and management or a related field is an asset.
- At least 5 years of experience in providing MERL for projects in development and humanitarian contexts.
Click here to get the full Job Description
Equality, diversity and inclusion is at the very heart of everything that Plan International stands for.
We want Plan International to reflect the diversity of the communities we work with, offering equal opportunities to everyone regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.
Plan International is based on a culture of inclusivity and we strive to create a workplace environment that ensures every team, in every office, in every country, is rich in diverse people, thoughts, and ideas.
Interested candidates who meet the above requirements are required to submit their curriculum vitae & cover letter outlining their suitability for the position. A range of pre-employment checks will be undertaken in conformity with Plan International's Safeguarding Children and Young People policy. Plan International also participates in the Inter Agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme. In line with this scheme we will request information from 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 their understanding of these recruitment procedures.
This position is open to Zimbabwean nationals and people with the right to work in Zimbabwe.
Location: Harare Country Office
Type of role: Fixed Term Contract
Closing Date: 31 December 2025
Please note that Plan International will never send unsolicited emails requesting payment from candidates.
Potential interview questions
| Can you describe your experience with Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning initiatives? | This question assesses the candidate's direct experience in MERL relevant to the role. | Provide specific examples of initiatives you've led or managed. |
| How do you approach capacity building within an organization? | The interviewer wants to understand your methods and strategies for enhancing skills in others. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| What strategies do you use for ensuring gender equality and inclusion in your projects? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Can you give an example of a challenging project and how you managed its evaluation? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Describe your method for knowledge management and learning in a team setting. | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| How do you stay updated with the latest trends in development and humanitarian sectors? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| What role do you believe safeguarding plays in MERL initiatives? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| How would you assess the impact of your projects on children’s rights and gender equality? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |