Global MELS Manager – US or Africa at IFDC Ethiopia

About IFDC

The International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC) is a public international organization that advances soil health and strengthens agricultural systems through science-based innovation. For over 50 years, IFDC has translated research into practical solutions that improve nutrient use efficiency, restore degraded soils, strengthen local agricultural markets, and expand opportunity for smallholder farmers, especially women and youth.

We work with farmers, governments, and private sector partners to build resilient farming systems that produce nutritious food, improve livelihoods, and safeguard natural resources for future generations.

Our Values

Collaborate: We work across teams, countries, and partners to create lasting impact.
Innovate: We apply evidence and continuous learning to design practical and responsible solutions.
Include: We promote equity and meaningful participation for women, youth, and underrepresented groups.
Act with Integrity: We steward resources responsibly, uphold transparency, and remain accountable to our stakeholders.

Position Summary

The Global MELS Manager leads the implementation of IFDC’s Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning, and Sharing (MELS) framework, ensuring strong systems for performance tracking, learning, and accountability across programs.

The role supports data-informed decision-making across Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and the U.S., requiring expertise in international agricultural development, digital data systems (including Power BI), and adaptive management.

Responsibilities

Leadership and Capacity Building

Build, lead, and mentor the MELS team, strengthening staff capacity through structured training programs.
Promote a data-informed culture across the organization.

Framework and Systems Implementation

Lead the implementation of the MELS framework and oversee the rollout of the Results Framework aligned with institutional strategy.
Provide technical guidance on MELS systems and tools, including CROPP and Power BI dashboards.
Standardize indicators, oversee Data Quality Reviews (DQRs), and promote the use of GIS and advanced analytics.

Learning and Knowledge Sharing

Establish and facilitate Communities of Practice (CoPs), organizing knowledge-sharing events and peer exchanges.
Lead the development and dissemination of knowledge products (e.g., case studies, policy briefs, reports) to support external engagement and organizational visibility.

Evaluations and Reporting

Coordinate internal and external evaluations, including impact evaluations and mid-term reviews.
Lead thematic studies under the learning agenda in collaboration with academic and research partners.
Lead the preparation of periodic reports and dashboards to track progress for senior management and the Board.

Requirements

Education: Master’s degree in a relevant field such as Agriculture, International Development, or Evaluation.
Experience: Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in MELS within international agricultural development.
Regional Expertise: Demonstrated experience in Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, or the U.S. is strongly preferred.
Leadership: Proven experience managing teams and coordinating with cross-functional project/program teams.
Technical Skills: Proficiency in conducting evaluations, managing data analysis, and using digital reporting tools.
Language: Excellent writing and communication skills in English (fluency in French is preferred).

Reporting and Location

Reporting: Reports directly to the Head of the IFDC Impact Assessment Task Force.
Location: National recruitment; the position may be based at any IFDC office in the U.S. or Africa.

Salary and Benefits

Salary Grade: BG 10.
Benefits: Includes annual and sick leave, health and group life insurance, a 13th-month salary, social security/pension contributions, and end-of-contract benefits.

IFDC is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Decisions are made based on ability, performance, and organizational need.

Global MELS Manager – US or Africa

Job Description