Monitoring and Evaluation Lead 

Gasabo, Nyarutarama

About Vanguard Economics

Vanguard Economics Ltd, founded in 2015 in Kigali, is as an advisory and research firm dedicated to delivering high-quality socio-economic and strategic research services tailored to the African context. Based on the notion that “social change is not a project that one group of people carries out for the benefit of another”, our main strategic goal is to build the next generation of African researchers in our areas of expertise. Our clients include Governments, private firms, multilateral institutions, foundations, and NGOs. Read more about us: Here

About the Position

We are seeking a highly experienced Monitoring and Evaluation Lead to drive our organization’s efforts in assessing and improving program effectiveness and impact. The Monitoring and Evaluation Lead will be responsible for developing and implementing robust monitoring and evaluation frameworks, systems, and processes to track progress, measure outcomes, and inform decision-making. This role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to translate data into actionable insights for continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of the organization’s monitoring and evaluation strategy, in alignment with program goals, objectives, and donor requirements.
• Design and implement comprehensive monitoring and evaluation frameworks, including logic models, theory of change, performance indicators, data collection plans, and reporting mechanisms.
• Provide strategic support on data collection, analysis, and management of quantitative and qualitative data to track program outputs, outcomes, and impact. Ensure data quality, integrity, and confidentiality throughout the process.
• Plan and conduct evaluations, including baseline assessments, mid-term reviews, and end-of-project evaluations, to assess program effectiveness, efficiency, relevance, and sustainability.
• Analyze evaluation findings and performance data to identify trends, patterns, and lessons learned. Synthesize complex information into clear and concise reports, presentations, and recommendations for stakeholders.
• Provide training and technical assistance to staff and partners on monitoring and evaluation concepts, methods, tools, and best practices. Build internal capacity for data collection, analysis, and utilization.
• Promote knowledge sharing and learning within the organization by documenting and disseminating best practices, case studies, success stories, and lessons learned from monitoring and evaluation activities.
• Collaborate with program managers, donors, government agencies, and other stakeholders to ensure alignment of monitoring and evaluation activities with program objectives and stakeholder expectations.
• Lead efforts to continuously improve monitoring and evaluation processes, tools, and methodologies based on feedback, evaluation findings, and emerging trends in the field.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Statistics, Social Sciences, International Development, or related field. Master’s degree preferred.
• 8+ years of experience in monitoring and evaluation, research, or related roles, preferably in the international development sector.
• Strong understanding of monitoring and evaluation concepts, methodologies, and tools, including quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis techniques.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software (e.g., SPSS, STATA, R) and data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to effectively present complex information to diverse audiences.
• Experience working with donors, implementing partners, and government agencies on monitoring and evaluation activities.
• Knowledge of donor reporting requirements and compliance standard

Preferred Skills

• Strong written and presentation skills
• Ability work effectively using agile project management framework
• Advanced analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Creative and innovative mindset
• Cultural awareness and sensitivity to navigate diverse business environments.
• Ability to work independently and in a team setting.
• Flexibility and adaptability to rapidly changing situations.
• Strong coaching and mentoring skills.
• The ability to think strategically.
• Knowledge of French language is added value.

What We Offer

• Work with talented, diverse and motivated team members
• Competitive salary and benefits package based on the labour market and candidate’s experience
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• A chance to make a significant impact on trade within the African continent.