Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist

7 hours ago

National Local Government Finance Committee (NLGFC) · Lilongwe, Malawi

Listing expires November 13, 2026

NATIONAL LOCAL GOVERNMENT FINANCE COMMITTEE

Integrated Social Protection for Resilience and Opportunity (INSPIRE-O)
Credit /Grant No: P512324
Date of Issue: 6th November 2026

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FOR POSITIONS UNDER THE INTEGRATED SOCIAL PROTECTION FOR RESILIENCE AND OPPORTUNITY (INSPIRE-O)

The Government of Malawi (GoM) through the National Local Government Finance Committee (NGFC) has received financing from the World Bank Group and the Malawi Social Protection Multi-Donor Trust Fund supported by the European Union, Ireland, the United Kingdom through FCDO, Germany through KIW, Iceland, and Norway towards the cost of Integrated Social Protection for Resilience and Opportunity (INSPIRE-O). The NGFC intends to apply part of the proceeds of this financing to eligible payments under the contract to recruit various specialists and/officers on a three – year contract, renewable annually based on performance and availability of financial resources or as mutually agreed by both parties.

NGFC, therefore, invites applications from suitably qualified and interested candidates to fill various positions available at the NGFC Offices:

Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist (1 position)

Position Overview

The Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist (M&ES) is a senior technical position whose primary role is to lead the design, implementation, and management of the M&E systems for the INSPIRE-O project. The incumbent will be responsible for ensuring robust, evidence-based tracking of project progress, outcomes, and impact, thereby supporting effective management, accountability, and learning. The M&ES will work as part of the INSPIRE-O Project Implementation Unit (PIU) and will report to the Project Coordinator. S/he will work in close collaboration with the Project Coordinator, project technical specialists, the M&E unit of the NLGFC, and implementing partners to ensure the effective integration and operationalization of the M&E framework. The M&ES will provide M&E technical advice and support. Technical approvals of project designs and specifications, financial certification, legal opinions, environmental and social technical determinations, and statutory approvals will remain the responsibility of the Client’s duly authorized officers and relevant specialists. The Specialist shall coordinate with those officers and provide M&E-related input within the scope of this assignment.

Objective of the Assignment

The objective of the M&E Specialist role is to lead the design and management of the project’s monitoring and evaluation system to generate reliable, timely evidence on implementation progress and results. The role oversees data collection, verification, analysis, and management information systems; tracks performance against project indicators and targets; prepares quality reports; and coordinates evaluations, knowledge management, and learning. The Specialist also strengthens the capacity of project staff and partners to apply M&E tools and use findings to improve project implementation and decision-making.

Duties and Responsibilities

The M&ES’s role encompasses the following key result areas, with core responsibilities including but not limited to:

M&E System Design & Management

  1. Lead the development, operationalization, and continuous refinement of the project M&E framework, including the Results Framework, indicators, baselines, targets, and data collection methodologies and reporting tools.
  2. Prepare indicator reference sheets defining methodologies, baselines, targets, data sources, collection frequencies, and responsibilities.
  3. Develop annual M&E work plans and budgets.
  4. Oversee the establishment, maintenance, and utilization of the project database and a Management Information System (MIS) to support data collection, storage, analysis, reporting, and decision-making.
  5. Ensure the M&E system is fully aligned with donor (e.g., World Bank, SP-MDTF) reporting requirements and government policies.
  6. Strengthen data flows between community, district, implementing agency, and national levels.

Data Collection, Verification & Analysis

  1. Coordinate the systematic collection, collation, verification, and management of project data from all implementing partners, participating Local Authorities, and other stakeholders.
  2. Conduct regular Data Quality Assessments (DQAs) and verification exercises to ensure the accuracy, completeness, reliability, and timeliness of project data.
  3. Undertake quantitative and qualitative data analysis to track progress towards the Project Development Objective (PDO), intermediate results indicators, and annual performance indicators.
  4. Ensure project data is appropriately disaggregated by sex, age, and other relevant categories to support gender-responsive and inclusive reporting and analysis.
  5. Develop and implement Data Quality Assessment protocols and conduct routine data audits, verification exercises, and spot checks.

Results Monitoring & Performance Tracking

  1. Track progress against PDO and intermediate indicators.
  2. Consolidate quarterly, semi-annual, and annual performance reports.
  3. Monitor implementation milestones and identify implementation bottlenecks.
  4. Maintain a project performance dashboard for management review.
  5. Generate analytical reports highlighting achievements, challenges, risks, and corrective actions.
  6. Support results-based management and adaptive project implementation.

Management Information Systems (MIS) & Data Management

  1. Lead coordination of project MIS and digital reporting systems.
  2. Ensure integration between project MIS and other relevant government systems.
  3. Develop protocols for data quality assurance, data verification, and data security.
  4. Maintain a centralized project database.
  5. Ensure compliance with applicable data protection legislation and World Bank requirements.
  6. Promote utilization of digital technologies for real-time monitoring and reporting.

Reporting & Performance Management

  1. Prepare and submit high-quality monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, and annual project performance reports in accordance with project and donor requirements.
  2. Prepare periodic Results Framework Performance Reports demonstrating progress towards achieving project targets and indicators.
  3. Develop and generate analytical products, scorecards, dashboards, and performance summaries to support evidence-based decision-making and management oversight.
  4. Track and report on the implementation of recommendations arising from supervision missions, evaluations, audits, data quality assessments, and management reviews.
  5. Support the Project Coordinator in preparing M&E inputs for World Bank implementation support missions, project reviews, and other oversight meetings.
  6. Prepare quarterly Interim Progress Reports and Annual Results Reports.
  7. Provide M&E inputs to Aide Memoires, ISR reporting, Mid-Term Reviews, and Project Completion Reports.

Evaluation, Knowledge Management & Learning

  1. Coordinate and manage the planning and implementation of project evaluations, including baseline surveys, mid-term reviews, beneficiary satisfaction assessments, impact evaluations, and end-of-project evaluations.
  2. Design and coordinate process evaluations, beneficiary assessments, tracer studies, and other operational research.
  3. Support development of impact evaluation methodologies in collaboration with research institutions and development partners.
  4. Prepare terms of reference and manage consultants conducting evaluations and studies.
  5. Document lessons learned, best practices, success stories, and implementation challenges to support knowledge management, continuous improvement, and adaptive management.
  6. Facilitate the dissemination of M&E findings to internal and external stakeholders to promote learning and accountability.
  7. Develop learning agendas to support project improvement and policy dialogue.
  8. Organize review meetings, learning events, and knowledge-sharing forums.
  9. Support preparation of project briefs, case studies, success stories, and results publications.

Capacity Building & Support

  1. Strengthen the M&E capacity of project staff, Local Authorities, community-level structures (e.g., Catchment Management Committees), and other stakeholders on results-based management, monitoring and evaluation concepts, and reporting procedures.
  2. Conduct an M&E capacity-needs assessment for designated NLGFC staff, Local Authority personnel, and implementing partners involved in INSPIRE-O implementation.
  3. Prepare and implement a time-bound capacity-building and on-the-job training plan covering M&E concepts, data collection methodologies, use of M&E tools, quality assurance, and reporting procedures.
  4. Prepare training manuals, tools, guidelines, and reporting templates and deliver orientations, workshops, clinics, and hands-on coaching agreed with the Project Coordinator.
  5. Provide on-going technical support and mentoring to field teams and partners on data collection methodologies, use of M&E tools, and quality assurance.
  6. Maintain evidence of knowledge-transfer activities, including topics, participants, materials, learning assessments, follow-up needs, and agreed actions.
  7. Coach designated counterpart staff during live M&E activities to support gradual transfer of responsibility.
  8. Support the integration and harmonization of M&E activities across all project components to ensure consistency in performance measurement, reporting, and learning.

Reporting, Records & Coordination

  1. Prepare the reports and outputs specified in Section 5 and provide concise analysis of progress, problems, risks, decisions required, and next steps.
  2. Establish and maintain an organized M&E record-keeping system, including electronic and physical records as applicable, with appropriate indexes and version control.
  3. Coordinate M&E activities with sector ministries, local governments, development partners, and other stakeholders.
  4. Coordinate with the PIU, user departments, technical specialists, financial management staff, regional offices, committees, service providers, and the World Bank on M&E-related matters within the Specialist’s mandate.
  5. Prepare a complete assignment handover package containing current M&E status, pending actions, key records, capacity-building outputs, and recommendations.

Qualifications and Experience

  1. A Master’s Degree in Monitoring and Evaluation, Economics, Statistics, Demography, Social Sciences, Development Studies, Public Policy, Data Science, or a related field from a recognized institution. An advanced certification or specialized training in Monitoring and Evaluation will be considered an added advantage.
  2. A minimum of seven (7) years of relevant working experience in a dedicated M&E position for large-scale donor-funded development projects. Experience with World Bank or other multilateral/bilateral funded projects is highly desirable.
  3. Proven experience in designing, implementing, and operating project M&E systems from initiation to close-out stages.
  4. Demonstrated experience in designing and managing beneficiary monitoring and database systems.
  5. Demonstrated experience managing M&E systems for World Bank, IDA, or other donor-funded projects.
  6. Experience designing results frameworks and performance monitoring systems.
  7. Strong experience with surveys, evaluations, data analytics, and reporting.
  8. Experience working with Management Information Systems and digital data platforms.
  9. Experience coordinating multiple stakeholders across government institutions and development partners.
  10. Experience in social protection, livelihoods, employment, human development, or community-driven development projects is an added advantage.
  11. Demonstrated experience in training, coaching, or on-the-job transfer of M&E knowledge.

Essential Skills and Competencies

  1. Technical: Strong knowledge of M&E frameworks, results-based management, and major evaluation methodologies (qualitative, quantitative, mixed-method, and impact). Proficiency in data analysis with statistical packages such as SPSS, Stata, or R, and in data visualization tools. Advanced Excel and data visualization skills. Understanding of impact evaluation methodologies. Knowledge of data protection and information governance principles.
  2. Computer: Proficient in using MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and database software. Experience with mobile data collection tools (e.g., Kobo Toolbox, ODK) is an asset. Experience with Management Information Systems and digital data platforms.
  3. Analysis & Reporting: Excellent analytical and report-writing skills with a demonstrated ability to translate complex data into clear, concise, and actionable information for diverse audiences. Excellent report writing and presentation skills.
  4. Communication & Interpersonal: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multi-disciplinary team and build the capacity of diverse stakeholders. Strong organizational and stakeholder coordination skills. Ability to work independently and under tight deadlines. Ability to work under minimal supervision.
  5. Personal Attributes: Proactive, result-oriented, and with a high degree of integrity and attention to detail. Willingness to travel regularly to field locations. Highly motivated, self-starter, result-oriented and capable of working under pressure to meet tight deadlines. Must demonstrate the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and a commitment to anti-corruption and anti-bribery ethics. Experience in mainstreaming gender, youth, and social inclusion in M&E frameworks.
  6. Eligibility: Eligibility and absence of conflict of interest in accordance with the applicable World Bank Procurement Regulations.

Deliverables and Performance Management

The M&E Specialist’s performance will be assessed against the timeliness, quality, and completeness of the following deliverables:

  1. Inception Report and Work Plan: Understanding of the assignment; initial M&E portfolio review; detailed work plan; reporting templates; coordination arrangements; risk register; approach to knowledge transfer.
  2. Comprehensive Project M&E Framework and Operational Manual: M&E framework; Results Framework; indicator reference sheets; data collection tools; reporting templates; data management protocols; M&E work plan and budget.
  3. Annual M&E Work Plans and Budgets: Detailed annual work plan; budget; activities; timelines; responsibilities.
  4. Indicator Reference Manual: Indicator definitions; methodologies; baselines; targets; data sources; collection frequencies; responsibilities.
  5. Baseline Assessment Report: Baseline data for all indicators; methodology; analysis; recommendations.
  6. Monthly Reports: Progress summary; activities completed; issues; next steps.
  7. Quarterly Performance Monitoring Reports: Progress against indicators; achievements; challenges; risks; corrective actions; data quality summary.
  8. Semi-Annual and Annual Results Reports: Progress towards PDO and intermediate results; Results Framework performance; analytical summaries; recommendations.
  9. Data Quality Assessment Reports: DQA methodology; findings; data quality ratings; corrective actions; follow-up status.
  10. Functional Results Dashboard: Visual dashboard showing progress against key indicators; performance summaries.
  11. Evaluation and Learning Reports: Baseline, Mid-Term, Beneficiary Satisfaction, and End-of-Project evaluation reports; lessons learned; best practices.
  12. Mid-Term Review M&E Report: M&E inputs for Mid-Term Review; progress analysis; recommendations.
  13. Completion Report Inputs and Endline Assessment: Endline assessment; completion report M&E inputs; final results summary.
  14. Training Materials and Records: Training manuals; tools; guidelines; templates; attendance records; learning assessments.
  15. Final Handover Package: Current M&E status; pending actions; key records; capacity-building outputs; recommendations.

Key Performance Indicators

KPIs will include:

  1. Timely submission and quality of all M&E reports and deliverables.
  2. Accuracy and completeness of project data and indicator reporting.
  3. Functionality and regular updating of the project MIS.
  4. Timely completion of data quality assessments and evaluation activities.
  5. Quality of analytical reports and evidence-based recommendations provided to management.
  6. Completion of evaluations and studies as scheduled.
  7. Utilization of M&E findings for project management and decision-making.
  8. Compliance with World Bank reporting requirements.
  9. Effectiveness of capacity building and knowledge transfer activities.

Reporting and Supervision

The M&E Specialist will report to the Project Coordinator. S/he will work in close collaboration with the Project Coordinator, project technical specialists, the M&E unit of the NLGFC, and implementing partners. The Specialist shall promptly disclose any matter that may materially affect M&E integrity, compliance, schedule, cost, project performance, or achievement of the assignment objective and shall recommend practical corrective action for consideration by the authorized Client representatives.

Facilities and Client Inputs

NLGFC will provide reasonable facilities necessary for performance of the services, including:

  1. Office space, furniture, and office equipment;
  2. Communication and internet facilities;
  3. Access to relevant project documents, reports, systems, and designated counterpart staff, subject to applicable access controls. Official travel outside the duty station shall require prior written authorization. NLGFC will provide or pay for authorized transport and applicable subsistence allowances (per diems, etc.) in accordance with the contract and applicable Government rates. The contract shall clarify whether each eligible cost is paid directly by NLGFC or reimbursed against supporting documentation.

Ownership, Confidentiality and Records

All reports, registers, tools, training materials, databases, records, and other products prepared specifically under the assignment will be the property of NLGFC, subject to the terms of the contract. The Deputy Project Coordinator shall maintain confidentiality of non-public information received or generated during the assignment and shall use it only for performance of the services. At completion or termination of the assignment, the Specialist shall return or hand over all Client records, access devices, working files, and final outputs in an organized and usable form and shall not retain confidential copies except where required by law or expressly authorized in writing by the Client.

Location of Employment

The consultant will be based at the NLGFC offices in Lilongwe. The position will require regular and extensive travel to project implementation areas across Local Authorities in Malawi to conduct field monitoring, support capacity building, and verify data.

Duration of Assignment

The assignment is for a period of three (3) years, with annual contract renewals subject to satisfactory performance and availability of project resources.

Selection and Remuneration

  1. Selection Method: The M&E Specialist will be selected as an Individual Consultant in accordance with the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers,” Sixth Edition, February 2025.
  2. Remuneration: The remuneration package will be competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience.

SUBMISSION OF APPLICATIONS

Interested applicants who meet the specified requirements are encouraged to submit their application letters together with a concise Curriculum Vitae (CV), National ID, and copies of relevant original certificates to the address below not later than 17.00 hours on 13th November, 2026.

The National Local Government Finance Committee (NLGFC) is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversifying Gender equality in its operations and strongly encourages women to apply for the above vacant positions.

The Executive Director
National Local Government Finance Committee
Area 14, Red Cross Building
Presidential Way
P.O Box 31162
LILONGWE 3
Or through the following email address: recruitment@nlgfc.gov.mw

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessments.

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