MEAL EXPERT

**Mission**

The MEAL Expert will support the Syria mission in strengthening its Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning (MEAL) system, with a specific focus on the design, structuring and operationalization of data management processes through **ActivityInfo**.

In a context where a MEAL Manager is already in place, the MEAL Expert does not replace or duplicate the MEAL function, but provides **high-level technical support and strategic guidance** to the national MEAL Team to:

- Strengthen and harmonise the MEAL system across the mission
- Design and operationalise robust data management frameworks and tools
- Support the MEAL Manager through targeted coaching and technical mentoring
- Ensure sustainability, scalability and ownership of the system

Given the operational complexity of the Syrian context (remote management, multi-partner implementation and access constraints), the position plays a key role in improving program quality, accountability and evidence-based decision-making.

**Geographical scope of intervention**

The position will be based in Raqqa, Northeast Siria, with field visits to MdM bases in Kobane and Hassake subject to security conditions, as well as remote support to field teams and partners.

**Organisation chart**

The MEAL Expert reports to the Deputy Programs General Coordinator and works closely with the MEAL Manager and the MEAL Advisor in the HQ. The position has no direct line management responsibilities and maintains strong functional links with the MEAL team (officers, data collectors, etc.)

**Functions**

1. **MEAL system development and implementation**

- Lead the technical review and strengthening of the mission MEAL system
- Design and structure MEAL frameworks, tools and processes adapted to the mission
- Configure and optimise databases, forms and data flows in **ActivityInfo**
- Ensure harmonisation of indicators, tools and reporting approaches across projects
- Define robust data governance mechanisms, including validation and consolidation processes
- Ensure alignment with MdM standards and donor requirements
- Support the integration of MEAL principles in program design and proposal development.

1. **Monitoring and Evaluation and analytical support**

- Design and implement robust M&E frameworks and tools to monitor program performance, ensuring alignment with project objectives, donor requirements, and organizational standards.
- Strengthen monitoring frameworks and indicator systems
- Improve data quality assurance mechanisms and analytical processes
- Ensure data is effectively used for program monitoring and strategic decision-making
- Contribute to improving data integration into donor reporting

1. **Technical support and capacity building**

- Assess MEAL capacities within the mission, with a focus on the MEAL Manager
- Design and implement an advanced, tailored capacity building plan
- Provide continuous coaching, mentoring and technical guidance
- Strengthening the MEAL Manager’s ability to manage systems and tools independently
- Support the integration of MEAL approaches across program teams

1. **Accountability and use of data**

- Support the integration of accountability and feedback mechanisms
- Ensuring data from complaints and feedback mechanisms is effectively used, according to the HQ Procedure and tools
- Promote the use of data for program adaptation and learning.
- Facilitate after-action reviews, lessons learned and program adaptation sessions with teams, partners and other stakeholders to improve program quality and effectiveness.

1. **Sustainability and exit strategy**

- Ensure the MEAL system is fully operational and manageable by the mission team
- Support the MEAL Manager in achieving autonomy on tools and systems
- Provide final recommendations and handover documentation

**Required qualifications**

**Academic background:**

- Bachelor’s degree in social sciences, Public Health, Statistics, International development or a related field (master’s preferred)

**Desirable:**

- Advanced training in MEAL, evaluation or humanitarian accountability is a strong asset.

**Requirements**

**Language**:

- Excellent level of English (spoken and written)
- Arabic is an asset

**Computer requirements**:

- Advanced proficiency in data management and analysis tools
- Strong and proven expertise in **ActivityInfo** (mandatory)
- Knowledge of other data collection platforms (e.g. Kobo, ODK), data flow (eg. Power Automate) and data visualisation (eg. Power Bi)

**Other**:

- Strong facilitation, coaching and mentoring skills
- Ability to work in challenging environments, with experience working in conflict-affected or emergency settings preferred.
- Strong knowledge of accountability and participatory approaches in humanitarian context.
- Excellent analytical and communication skills

**Experience**

- Minimum 3–5 years of experience in MEAL in humanitarian contexts
- Proven experience in designing and implementing MEAL systems in com