Head of Research and Evaluation

Position Overview:

As the Foundation expands its presence across Africa, this is an exciting opportunity to apply cutting-edge research and evaluation (RE) tools to monitor program performance, measure impact, and inform future strategies. In close collaboration with the Chief Research and Evaluation Officer (CREO) and the wider RE team, the Head of Research and Evaluation, Ethiopia, will define, lead, and drive the strategic direction of the regional RE team. This role involves overseeing the development and execution of RE strategies, leading a diverse team, and ensuring that all initiatives align with the RE team’s objective to provide independent, credible, and actionable feedback on program delivery and performance to maximize impact and cost-effectiveness.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement Ethiopia’s RE strategy, ensuring alignment with the Foundation’s goals while addressing local needs and priorities.
• Program Monitoring & Evaluation: Provide rapid data collection and evidence-based insights during program design and implementation. Monitor the performance of ongoing programs in Ethiopia, tracking key performance indicators to ensure alignment with goals and deliver measurable impact.
• Impact Assessment: Lead rigorous program evaluations to assess outcomes, effectiveness, and broader program implications, ensuring data-driven decision-making.
• Internal Communication & Feedback: Develop effective feedback systems to keep senior leadership and program teams informed about RE activities, ensuring research findings contribute to program planning and execution.
• Team Leadership: Lead and mentor a talented team of researchers, fostering a culture of collaboration, continuous learning, and high performance. Oversee recruitment and ensure team development.
• Financial Oversight: Manage the annual budget for Ethiopia’s RE activities, ensuring financial sustainability through ongoing monitoring and quarterly reviews.
• Travel: Travel within Ethiopia to support RE activities as required.

What We’re Looking For

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Education: Master’s degree (or higher) in Economics, International Development, Political Science, Statistics, Public Policy, or a related field.
• Experience: A minimum of 7 years of fieldwork management experience, ideally in a research project within academic, development, or non-profit sectors.
  • Proficiency in statistical tools like STATA, R, and survey platforms (e.g., KoboCollect, SurveyCTO).
  • Strong understanding of economics, econometrics, and statistics.
  • Excellent writing, presentation, and communication skills.

Technical Skills:

Personal Attributes:

• Creative and results-oriented with a keen attention to detail.
• Strong interpersonal and team-building skills, able to collaborate effectively across departments and locations.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines.