Job Description

MEAL COORDINATOR   

Preliminary Job Information

• Job Title: MONITORING, EVALUATION, ACCOUNTABILITY AND LEARNING (MEAL) COORDINATOR 
• Duty Station: Sanaa – Yemen 
• Reports hierarchically to: DEPUTY HEAD OF MISSION FOR PROGRAM (DHOM-P) 
• Announcement Date: 13-March-2025 
• Deadline for Applications:  27-March-2025
• Contract Start Date: ASAP 

General Information about the Mission

PU-AMI’s Context & Strategy:

Première Urgence - Aide Médicale Internationale (PU-AMI) is an international, non-profit, non-political, and non-religious humanitarian organization which aims to provide rapid global response to the basic needs of populations affected by humanitarian crises to help them regain independence and dignity. PU-AMI provides assistance to more than 6 million people throughout 24 countries, with more than 2,500 staff worldwide.
PU-AMI adopts an integrated approach, to identify and understand the full array of the needs of the people affected by crises. This innovative approach is at the core of every PU-AMI-supported project to better target and prioritize actions, stabilize and improve the situation of the most vulnerable groups. It allows the teams to take all aspects of a problem into account, to come up with an efficient combination of solutions, which will have a powerful and long-lasting impact on the affected populations. In this respect, the organization runs worldwide around 190 projects a year, most of which are focused on Health, Nutrition, Food Security, Water, Sanitation and Hygiene, Psychosocial Support, Education and Protection activities. 
In Yemen, PU-AMI is supporting 21 health facilities (Health Centers, Health Units and Therapeutic Feeding Centers) in four Districts in Hodeidah (Al Mighlaf, As Sukhnah, Al Mansuriyah and Al Qanawis), three Districts in Raymah (Bilad at Ta’am, Al Jabin and Mazhar) and two Districts in Taizz (Al Mokha and Mawza). PU-AMI’s operations are managed by two field offices in Hodeidah and Mokha cities, both supported by the Sana’a coordination office. PU-AMI recently established a second coordination office in Aden. 
PU-AMI is participating actively in clusters and sub-clusters (health; nutrition; food security and livelihoods; WaSH) and works closely with relevant government departments.

Overall Objective

The Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning (MEAL) Coordinator is responsible for guiding the overall MEAL strategy and implementation or related activities within projects while providing timely and relevant information to stakeholders. This includes designing MEAL frameworks, ensuring high-quality data collection and analysis, strengthening accountability mechanisms, contributing to the proposal development and supporting program teams in evidence-based decision-making. The role requires close engagement with local authorities, partners, and communities to enhance program effectiveness and ensure compliance with humanitarian standards.

Tasks and Responsibilities

Under the supervision of the Deputy Head of Mission for Programs (DHoMP), and in cooperation with technical coordinators and MEAL staff in the operational bases and at coordination level, the MEAL Coordinator will:

• Strategy: Lead the design and the roll-out of a sound and adapted-to-context MEAL strategy and operational guidance integrating cross-cutting issues (gender, protection, accountability, do-no-harm, community participation, disability, etc.)
• Training and technical support: Provides a methodological support to all program teams on technical questions linked to MEAL and cross-cutting issues such as: design of MEAL plan, quantitative and qualitative data collection, measure of indicators, complaint response mechanism, “do no harm” analysis, terms of references of internal and external evaluations etc.
• Monitoring and evaluation: Looks over the quality and relevance of internal monitoring and evaluation activities, recommendations and analysis produced by his/her department.
• Accountability: Makes sure his/her department is cross-cutting and well-integrated with all departments (functional links) as well as coherent with all coordinators and managers.
• Human Resources Management: Supports training of program teams within his/her fields of expertise.
• Knowledge building: Contributes to institutional knowledge building and improvement of MEAL methods and techniques.
• MEAL Tools Development: Develop new MEAL Tools that are missing in the mission, train program staff about the use of the developed tools. 

Specific Goals and Related Activities

1.    DEVELOP AND ROLL OUT THE MISSION MEAL STRATEGY

• Conduct a comprehensive diagnosis on current MEAL systems at mission level with methodological analysis.
• Design the MEAL strategy and framework for the mission including roles and responsibilities, team organization, protocols, tools and processes. Lead the process of a participatory definition of tailored MEAL strategy and guidelines for the mission.
• Lead the effective transition/deployment of the designed MEAL framework at mission level by proposing and developing sector-based action plans in coordination with technical coordinators.
• In collaboration with technical coordinators, produce an overall analysis of PUI’s programs’ effects/outcomes through internal and external M&E as well as orientations, lessons learnt and recommendations
• Make sure collected data are used to take appropriated operational decisions and to address contractual engagements with donors.
• Ensure participation of communities, authorities and humanitarian actors are included in the MEAL strategy
• Adapts and contextualizes MEAL tools in collaboration with the Access Team and properly use by programs. In link with DHoM ensures the transmission of relevant tools to HQ.
• Develops and/or revises Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for MEAL activities, ensuring they are context-specific, aligned with organizational policies, and compliant with standards.

2.    TRAINING AND TECHNICAL SUPPORT

• Deploy PUI’s MEAL training package for all MEAL staff and other relevant staff in country
• Develop program teams’ capacities in his/her field of expertise: data collection and analysis (method, format, software etc.), measure of indicators, complaint and feedback response mechanism, do-no harm analysis, etc.
• Develop tailor training modules along with DHoMP for specific issues.
• Provide program teams with a technical and methodological support for M&E activities, data management (questionnaire design, sampling, data entry, extraction of useful data and interpretation) and integration of cross-cutting issues.
• Support program teams in creating or adapting tools for: indicators monitoring, impact monitoring (MEAL or M&E plan and survey tools) or risk analysis.
• Identify technical training requirements and the resources available in the work area for his/her team

3.    MONITORING AND EVALUATION OF PUI PROGRAMS

• Propose and organize a range of M&E activities in collaboration with technical coordinators, area/field coordinators, Deputy Field Coordinators and project managers:
• Programmatic monitoring to ensure project quality, identify areas for improvement and provide recommendations in consultation with technical coordinators.
• Supports the design and implementation of post-intervention/distribution Monitoring, Baseline / Endline activities to assess the effectiveness and impact of project interventions.
• Coordinate Internal and/or Third-Party Evaluation (interim and final) to assess project performance, identify lessons learned to inform future programming. Contribute to terms of references for external evaluations and studies.
• Follow up with program teams to integrate cross-cutting issues (accountability, gender, do-no harm, etc.).
• Design and implement thematic studies to explore specific topics relevant to the project.
• Participate in operational audits to ensure compliance with organizational policies and procedures.
• Elaborate or contribute to the elaboration, review and harmonization of M&E tools, data management, especially the project Monitoring Tools (PMT).
• Contribute to the development of new M&E tools and data management systems aligned with project objectives and indicators
• Review and refine existing tools to ensure they remain contextually effective and relevant
• Harmonize M&E tools and data management systems across projects and teams
• Provide training and support to project staff on the use of M&E tools and data management systems
• Validate relevance of reports, analysis, and recommendations produced by the MEAL department or PMs before their dissemination in coordination with HQ.
• Coordinate data quality assessments for the mission.

4.    ACCOUNTABILITY

• Design and roll out of complaints and feedback response mechanisms, aligned with PUI’s MEAL Framework and adaptive to the local context. 
• Collaborate with program teams to design and implement participation activities that promote inclusive and meaningful engagement with affected populations. 
• Ensure that the key principles of the complaint response mechanism are respected and accessible to all stakeholders.
• Establish and maintain an effective complaint management system, ensuring that complaints are registered, tracked, analyzed, and addressed in a timely and fair manner in link with PUI’s MEAL framework.
• Ensure that complaints and feedback are analysed and that internal monthly reports are shared to inform program improvement and decision-making.
• Ensure that complaints are addressed, and that an appropriate and timely response is given to the complainant.
• Coordinate the design of an information common speech and supervise the design of the relevant communication plan.

5.    LESSONS LEARNT AND INSTITUTIONAL KNOWLEDGE BUILDING (IKB)

• Sensitize and support program teams on the mission in the process of learning and IKB.
• Ensure that learning activities are included in the project activities
• Build institutional knowledge on activities and missions’ results (lessons learnt and recommendations) and make sure these are known by all relevant parties (program staff, technical and area/field coordinators).
• In link with PUI’s MEAL framework and tools develop a recommendation tracking process (internal and external) and work together with technical coordinators on action plans.
• Participate into centralizing and disseminating procedures, guides and tools both at mission level and capitalized with HQ.
• Contribute to the preparation of kick off and learning meetings per project and ensure capitalization of its content.
• Produce a detailed handover report at the end of the employment contract, validated by the DHoMP and Desk Program Officer.
• Design and implement a yearly IKB plan

6.    COORDINATION AND OPERATIONAL MONITORING

• Ensure consolidation and validation of the department’s activity work plan.
• Ensure achievement of the department’s objectives.
• Actively participate in the mission’s coordination meetings.
• Take part of the monthly review of programs (budget, operational, logistics…) and of budget follow up for his/her department.

7.    HR MANAGEMENT/CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT

• Together with the DHoMP, defines the MEAL set up and HR needs.
• Develop and roll out communication schemes, roles and responsibilities and procedures inside the MEAL department
• Make sure that new staffs from program and MEAL departments are briefed on MEAL’s roles and responsibilities.
• Evaluate and assess the performance of collaborators under his/her direct supervision.
• Lead workshops, coordination meetings and/or technical exchange programs
• Supervise adherence to security regulations by personnel under his/her supervision.
• Supervise and support MEAL teams in implementing their action plan and achievement of their objectives.

8.    REPORTING 

• Validate and disseminate final versions of MEAL reports, studies and analysis produced by the department.
• In collaboration with technical coordinators and Grants Department contribute to the development of monthly reports, including analysis of PMT data and narrative sections.
• Provide technical input to the development of interim/semi-annual/project completion and other ad-hoc reports, including MEAL Annexes and narrative sections.
• Ensure that all reports are delivered on time and in the correct format.
• Ensure that reports are comprehensive, accurate, and meet donor requirements.
• Coordinate quarterly project review meetings with the Grants Department and project teams to review progress, identify areas for improvement, and inform corrective actions, using PMT and MEAL data.
• Convey information to the relevant person on any event having possible consequence on PUI’s reputation, activities or the security of the teams.

9.    Proposal Development

• Support the DHoMP and HoM for review of project proposals in his/her field.
• Collaborate with the Deputy Head of Mission for Programs (DHoMP) to design and implement needs assessments, including developing Terms of References (TOR), tools, and methodologies, and compiling reports that inform proposal development and ensure high-quality programming.
• Provide MEAL technical support to technical coordinators and other teams during the proposal development process.
• Collaborate with technical coordinators to provide methodological support in developing Log Frames, defining indicators, and Theories of Change (ToC).
• Write and contribute to the MEAL section of project proposals, ensuring that MEAL plans are clear, comprehensive, and aligned with project objectives.
• Support technical coordinators in developing beneficiary calculations, providing guidance on formatting, tools, and methodologies.
• Complete and finalize MEAL-related annexes, such as MEAL plans, data collection tools, and monitoring templates.
• Review and provide feedback on proposal drafts to ensure that MEAL components are robust and aligned with project objectives.

10.    External Communication

• Ensure transparent communication with relevant stakeholders, including donors, partners, and communities, on MEAL-related activities and results.
• Represent PUI when requested and/or delegated to do so, promoting the organization's interests and values.
• Ensure PUI's representation at meetings, forums, and other events related to MEAL, advocating for the organization's positions and interests.
• Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including donors, partners, and local authorities, to promote PUI's work and interests.
• Serve as the focal point for all MEAL-related requests from external stakeholders, including third-party monitoring, evaluations, and other assessments, ensuring timely and effective responses.

PRIORITIES OF THE DEPARTMENT FOR THIS POSITION 

• Development of complementary working tools to improve the work of the of MEAL Department countrywide. 
• Provision of technical guidance to the mission’s MEAL Teams’ work to improve the quality of the department’s work 
• Working with MEAL and Program Teams to design effective reporting tools on indicators. 
• Building program staff capacities to foster an effective continuity of the good and quality work of the MEAL Department.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERTISE 

Mandatory Requirements: 

• Education Background: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in a field related to Project Management, international development, social sciences, statistics or a related field. A professional training in MEAL Dpro and other relevant trainings will be an added advantage. 
• Professional Experience: At least 5 years of experience with I/NGOs, UN Agencies, or humanitarian organizations in Yemen with 4 years managing MEAL Teams in similar roles. International Experience in Humanitarian INGO with expertise in Emergency response, Health and Nutrition Programs will be an added advantage.  
• Language Skills: Arabic Language skill is a must, fluency in English Language for effective communication with Donors and foreign nationals is required with excellent oral and written communication skills for both languages. 
• Conceptual Skills: Experience working with Health Authorities in Yemen is very essential for this job with strong diplomatic or negotiation skills.  
• Computer Skills: Microsoft Office Pack MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access), MDC and software language (ODK, Kobo, Power-BI) etc.
• Others Required Skills: Capacity for analysing and synthetizing comprehensive information & technical data with good knowledge in statistics and sampling methods. Demonstrated ability to transfer knowledge to diverse audiences through training and mentoring. Excellent knowledge of project management

Others Expertise: 

• Ability to work independently, take the initiative and take responsibility in a proactive approach
• Ability to travel to field locations as required to all governorates in Northern and Southern Yemen
• Self-motivated, flexible and adaptable to the needs of the team and organization
• Strong commitment in humanitarian principles
• Resilience to stress
• Diplomacy and open-mindedness
• Good analytical skills
• Able to organize assigned tasks with the ability to manage priorities and varied workload
• Ability to guarantee effective and timely outputs
• Problem solving and leadership skills
• Ability to work and manage professionally and maturely
• Ability to integrate into the local environment, taking account of its political, economic and historical characteristics
• Participatory skills in project proposal writing, including the setting of project indicators

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their application package comprising of their CV, Cover Letter with Degree Certificates and Training Diplomats in English Versions  via email to co.recruitement@premiere-urgence-yem.org not later than Tuesday, 27th March 2025.  

The subject of the email should be: «Application for the Position of MEAL Coordinator- Sana’a ».

Only applications respecting the required criterium will be considered for review. 

Due to high number of applications, PU-AMI will contact only shortlisted candidates during the recruitment process. 

Qualified Female Candidates are highly encouraged to apply for this job. 

PU-AMI treats all candidates equally regardless of their gender, race, cultural, and ethic background.