TITLE: Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Associate 
UNIT: Nepal Office
REPORTS TO: Program Manager 
LOCATION: Butwal and Janakpur (one each)
SUPERVISES: N/A

1. SUMMARY OF RESPONSIBILITIES

The Monitoring,  Evaluation  and  Learning (MEL) Associates at The Asia  Foundation (the Foundation) will provide technical support in the overall implementation of the USAID Civil Society and Media (CSM) program in Nepal. S/hewill support the MERL Specialist in monitoring the program, tracking progress, generating learning and assist in data collection and analysis. S/he will help collect program-related data for the program’s MEL system and work with the program staff  and  MERL team to facilitate learning activities,  prepare  program  reports,  and  support adaptive  management.They  will  work  closely  with  the  Program  Managers,  and other team members, and will be part of the MERL team, and will be responsible for integrating Diversity, Equity,  Inclusion  and  Accessibility (DEIA) and data responsibility  components of the  MERL Charter into their day-to-day responsibilities.

2. RELATIONSHIPS

Internal

Contact with all staff within the respective provincial offices based in Butwal and Janakpur as well as at the Foundation’s office in Kathmandu.

External

Regular  contact  with  grantees,  independent  contractors,  government  officials  and  agencies, bilateral  and multilateral development  agencies  and  donors,  business  sector  and  civil  society organizations, professional organizations, and academic and other local institutions.

3. REQUIREMENTS

Education

Bachelor’s degree in development studies, political science, international relations, public policy,economics, international development,or a relevant field. 

Experience

Minimum two years of experience in Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning, and Research programs.Experience in quantitative and qualitative data collection. Skills in data analysis is an advantage.

Other 

Demonstrated  knowledge of  Nepal’s  political,  economic,  and  social  context, along   with knowledge  of the media and  civil  society landscape in  the  country.  Knowledge  of  regional  and provincial development,  local  governance,  and  social  initiatives  in  Madhesh  and/or  Lumbini Province will be valuable. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills in English and Nepali (and a local language spoken in either Madhesh or Lumbini province is preferred) and the ability to  harmoniously  interact  with  people  from  a  variety  of  cultural  and  professional  backgrounds. Advanced computer skills (Microsoft Windows, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Internet)and time  management skills.  Ability  to  prioritize  and  critically  analyze  information. Willingness to travel to districts across the respective  province. Proven ability to work  independently and in a team environment.

4. JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Support and Management

• Support MERL Specialist in maintaining the database of program progress as per indicators and track the targets, achievements, and learning
• Lead data collection and evidence generation at provincial level
• Support synthesis of learning and distill into appropriate, targeted knowledge products
• Conduct regular field visits to assess the performance and compliance by local partners and share findings with the team
• Assist MERL team to conduct regular partners meetings and reflection sessions
• Support MERL team in administrative tasks (Memo preparation, Grant reviews, Review of Partners' Progress Report, SMS etc.)
• Support the team in collecting case stories, good practices, and learnings in coordination with provincial team
• Assist the MERL team to roll out the plan and activities planned on the MEL plan

Financial Management

• Assist Program  Officers  and  Finance  &  Grants  Unit  in  conducting  due  diligence  to potential  partners/grantees  and  ensure  that  all  due  diligence  documents  are  completed/ submitted by potential partners/ grantees.
• Following  Foundation  policies  and  practices,  ensure that  all  financial  documentation related  to  project  activities  is  prepared,  updated,  and  settled,  including  supporting documents.

Representation

• Participate  in  the  Foundation’s  or  other  meetings,  professional  forums,  and  events  with development partners, governments, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders.
• Contribute articles, written materials, and documentation for publication by the program or the Foundation.

Other Responsibilities

• Work closely with the communications team to develop and maintain the program’s outreach activities to enhance its visibility and other activities as may be necessary.
• Provide  support  to  other  ongoing  programs  and  activities  of  the  Foundation  as  may  be necessary.
• Any other tasks as assigned by the Country Representative or designate.