Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning (MERL) Advisor at Sanitas Health and Development Foundation (SANHDEF)

SANHDEF (Sanitas Health and Development Foundation) is a non-governmental organization (NGO) established in 2022 by a team with extensive experience in promoting and implementing sustainable development solutions. As a registered organization in Nigeria, SANHDEF specializes in providing technical assistance to achieve sustainable development solutions. With operational presence across the country, our dedicated team is committed to making a lasting impact on communities where we work. We strive to address the complex challenges faced by these communities, focusing on areas such as healthcare, education, environmental sustainability, and social empowerment. Through our expertise, partnerships, and innovative approaches, SANHDEF maintains a pole position at contributing towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Our work is guided by a deep understanding of local contexts and driven by the aspirations of the people we serve.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

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

Location: Kano
Reports to: MERL Lead
Division/Department: Technical
Job type: Full time

Project Overview

• SANHDEF has been engaged by the Gates Foundation (GF) to implement a three (3) year Health System Strengthening (HSS) Project in Kano State.
• The project will support the State in developing realistic plans to optimize its health systems, improve health outcomes, and build a more resilient healthcare infrastructure capable of meeting the needs of its growing population.
•  We are seeking highly motivated and skilled professionals to join our State-level team in various critical roles.

Job Summary

• The Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning (MERL) Advisor will lead the design and implementation of MERL activities for the Service Delivery Plan for the PHC strengthening project.
• The MERL Advisor will provide technical leadership to ensure high-quality, effective, and timely monitoring and evaluation of the project's activities and outcomes.
• This role includes capacity building of the project team and partners, ensuring data-driven decision-making, and contributing to the overall strategic goals of the project

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement a comprehensive monitoring and evaluation framework, including data collection tools, data management and backup processes, feedback mechanisms, quality assurance checks and audits, and data visualization.
• Ensure that MERL activities are integrated into the project cycle from the design phase throughout implementation of the project.
• Ensure timely and accurate data collection, analysis, and reporting.
• Develop and implement data quality assurance mechanisms to ensure the reliability and validity of data.
• Conduct regular field visits to monitor the implementation of project activities and verify data accuracy.
• Lead the design and implementation of operational research studies to generate evidence for decision-making and policy development.
• Promote a culture of learning and continuous improvement by facilitating knowledge sharing and reflective practices within the project team and among stakeholders.
• Synthesize and disseminate research findings, lessons learned, and best practices through reports, presentations, and publications.
• Utilize advanced data analysis techniques and software to generate insights and inform programmatic decisions.
• Lead the conduct of a baseline assessment of the PHC system to identify strengths, weaknesses, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement.
• Collaborate with other project teams and stakeholders to ensure alignment and coherence in MERL activities.

Requirements
Qualifications and Experience:

• Advanced degree in Public Health, Statistics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning advisory roles.
• Proven experience working on donor-funded projects or in Development.
• Strong background in data management, data visualization, statistical analysis, and research methodologies

Desired Competencies:

• Demonstrated leadership and management skills, with the ability to lead and mentor MERL teams.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with proficiency in statistical software applications (e.g., SPSS, STATA, R).
• Proficiency in data visualization, including the use of Power BI
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and effectively.
• Proven ability to engage and collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including government officials, donors, and community groups.
• Experience working in multicultural and multidisciplinary teams.
• Familiarity with the health landscape in Nigeria, particularly in Kano State.
• Commitment to promoting gender equality, equity, and social inclusion in MERL activities

Application Closing Date
5th August, 2025.