The MEAL Project Lead will oversee the execution and timely delivery of assigned research projects under the MEAL pillar. The role involves managing project operations, leading communications with clients, coordinating internal and external teams, and ensuring high-quality research outputs. The Project Lead will typically manage between two and four projects simultaneously and may contribute directly to research tasks subject to approval by the Research Manager.
This is a leadership role that requires strong organizational, research, analytical, and stakeholder engagement capabilities.
Key Responsibilities
Objective 1: Team Management and Coordination
- Oversee the implementation and day-to-day management of research project timelines
- Manage and lead project team members across in-office and field locations
- Supervise project finances, procurement, and liaise with finance/admin teams
- Train national and international research teams for effective data collection and reporting
- Approve and review key project deliverables including proposals, research tools, and reports
- Coordinate with partners and oversee compliance with fieldwork authorization processes
- Ensure the timely delivery of client deliverables and invoicing schedules
Objective 2: Client Management and Communications
- Serve as the primary point of contact for clients on project-related matters
- Respond promptly to client requests and feedback
- Prepare and present project updates to internal and external stakeholders
- Maintain effective data-sharing and upload systems for project-related information
- Support the expansion of Samuel Hall’s network through event participation and proposal writing
Objective 3: Research Oversight
- Lead or co-lead the design of research methodologies, tools, and frameworks
- Manage mixed-method fieldwork in diverse geographic locations
- Oversee and ensure the quality and timeliness of data collection
- Train and supervise research assistants and area coordinators
- Contribute to data analysis, reporting, and dissemination of findings
- Review research outputs for methodological rigor and relevance
Key Competencies and Skills
- Research & Analysis – Strong command of qualitative and quantitative methodologies, and ability to interpret complex data
- Project Management – Excellent ability to manage work plans, budgets, risk, and compliance across multiple projects
- Leadership – Effective leadership, mentorship, and conflict resolution within global and multicultural teams
- Stakeholder Engagement – Strong relationship-building skills with donors, clients, policymakers, and partners
- Communication – Excellent written and verbal communication skills for reporting, presenting, and proposal development
- Budgeting – Skilled in financial oversight and resource management for large-scale research initiatives
- Adaptability – Innovative problem-solver with a capacity to thrive under pressure and deliver on tight timelines
Growth and Development at Samuel Hall
As part of its commitment to learning and professional development, Samuel Hall offers:
- Paid leave for professional development (up to 5 days annually)
- Financial support for relevant courses, training, or conferences
- A performance-driven environment that supports creativity and initiative
- Hands-on experience in high-impact projects at the intersection of research and policy
- Opportunities for internal growth and cross-functional collaboration
Vacancy Requirements
Required Qualifications
- Master’s degree in a relevant field such as Social Sciences, International Development, Migration Studies, or Monitoring & Evaluation
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in MEAL roles, ideally with a focus on migration, displacement, or international development
- Demonstrated experience with data collection, management, analysis, and reporting
- Excellent project management, analytical thinking, and writing skills
- Strong command of research tools and statistical software for data visualization and interpretation
- Excellent English and French language proficiency (spoken and written)
- Meticulous attention to detail, team spirit, and high adaptability
- Willingness to travel domestically and internationally based on project requirements
- Must have legal right to work and reside in the country of application
Desirable Qualifications
- Field experience in East and Horn of Africa, Central/South Asia, or the Middle East and North Africa
- Previous work experience with NGOs, international organizations, or research institutions
What We Offer
- A 12-month renewable employment contract
- Flexible work arrangement (remote or on-site in Nairobi, Kenya)
- Compensation for health insurance
- Competitive salary based on experience and location, aligned with Samuel Hall’s internal framework
How to Apply
All applicants should send the following as separate PDF documents:
- Cover letter (label as: CL – Full Name)
- Curriculum Vitae/Resume (label as: CV – Full Name)
- Three relevant work samples
- Contact details of three professional references
Email applications to: careers@samuelhall.org
Email Subject Line: Your Full Name – MEAL Project Lead
Application Deadline: 14th April 2025
Apply Now
Note:
Only applicants who follow the application format will be considered. Due to high application volumes, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis.
Samuel Hall is an equal opportunities employer and actively encourages applications from individuals regardless of gender, identity, ethnicity, age, religion, disability, or lived experience of migration or displacement.
If you suspect discrimination or misconduct during the recruitment process, please report it through our independent whistleblowing system.
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