Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning (MERL) Specialist at Inspire Decisions Consulting

Inspire Decisions Consulting Limited (IDC) is an ISO 20700 certified management consulting company and a fast-growing global development firm that supports international donors and donor-funded projects, as well as public and private sector organizations, to achieve their development objectives and key performance targets. Although incorporated in April 2016, the key personnel have over 40 years of cumulative experience in designing and implementing multi-sector projects, supporting private sector development, providing monitoring, evaluation, research, and learning services for international development, public, private, and civil society organizations and in West and East Africa.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning (MERL) Specialist

Location: Nigeria
Employment Type: Full-time

Role Overview

• The Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning (MERL) Specialist is responsible for designing and implementing robust MERL frameworks to track the different project impact, measure effectiveness, and facilitate data-driven decision-making.
• This role integrates monitoring, evaluation, and research to generate actionable insights that enhance program quality and effectiveness.
• The MERL Specialist also leads research assignments, ensuring that projects are informed by evidence-based practices and rigorous data analysis.
• This position requires a strong background in research methodologies, data collection, and impact assessments, with the ability to translate findings into strategic recommendations for program improvement.
• The MERL Specialist collaborates with project teams, partners, and stakeholders to strengthen learning, innovation, and adaptive programming.

Key Responsibilities
Monitoring & Data Collection:

• Develop and implement MERL frameworks, tools, and methodologies to track the performance of different client projects
• Establish and monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to assess progress toward projects objectives.
• Oversee data collection, validation, and analysis to ensure high-quality, reliable insights.
• Work with project teams to integrate real-time monitoring mechanisms and adaptive learning approaches.

Research & Evidence Generation:

• Lead and oversee research studies, market assessments, and other studies for clients and to inform strategies for the different projects.
• Apply quantitative and qualitative research methods, including surveys, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews.
• Analyze data using statistical and analytical tools such as SPSS, Stata, NVivo, Power BI, and Excel.
• Lead the development of research reports, policy briefs, and case studies to support evidence-based decision-making.
• Stay updated on emerging research trends, best practices, and innovations in thematic organizational areas.

Evaluations & Impact Assessment:

• Conduct baseline, midline, and endline evaluations to assess project outcomes and impact for different projects and as part of client assignments
• Synthesize findings from monitoring data and research studies to identify trends and lessons learned.
• Develop and track Theories of Change and Results Frameworks for new and ongoing projects.
• Ensure evaluation results contribute to strategic decision-making and program adaptation.

Learning & Knowledge Management:

• Facilitate learning sessions, workshops, and after-action reviews to promote knowledge sharing.
• Document and disseminate best practices, success stories, and lessons learned across projects.
• Support teams in integrating learning into program design and adaptive management.
• Develop knowledge products such as briefs, presentations, and infographics to communicate research insights.

Reporting & Compliance:

• Ensure MERL activities comply with client, donor, and internal reporting requirements.
• Produce high-quality MERL reports, dashboards, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Provide MERL input for proposal development, including designing logframes, indicators, and research methodologies.

Requirements
Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Monitoring & Evaluation, Research, Development Studies, Social Sciences, Statistics, or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in monitoring, evaluation, research, and learning within an NGO, development consulting firm, or donor-funded project.
• Strong expertise in research design, survey development, and data analysis using tools such as SurveyCTO, KoboToolbox, Power BI, or Tableau.
• Knowledge of MERL frameworks and methodologies, including Results-Based Management (RBM), Theory of Change, Results Chains, etc.
• Experience working with donor-funded programs (e.g., USAID, DFID, GIZ, etc) is an advantage.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and report-writing skills.
• Ability to work in a hybrid environment and travel for field research when required.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification in MERL, Data Science, or Project Management (e.g., PMD Pro, PMP, or PRINCE2).
• Experience using qualitative and participatory research methods.
• Familiarity with machine learning or predictive analytics in social research is a plus.

Technical Requirements:

• Reliable high-speed internet connection
• Personal computer/laptop
• Ability to work flexible hours to support global projects.

Equal Opportunities Employer:

• Inspire Decisions Consulting is an equal opportunity employer.
• We value diversity and encourage applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic.
• We are committed to creating an inclusive environment that respects and celebrates individual differences.

Compensation

• A competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience including and bonus opportunities.
• The opportunity to be your best self while improving the lives of those around you.

Application Closing Date
10th April, 2025.