Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning (MERL) Officer

Equity Bank Limited seeks to strengthen program delivery through reliable information, practical research and systematic assessment of results. The Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning (MERL) Officer supports this work by helping program teams maintain dependable records, interpret performance information and identify evidence that can inform operational decisions. The position works with Enterprise Development and Financial Inclusion program managers, regional colleagues and the MERL Manager.

The officer contributes to the processes that turn program records into useful management information. This includes reviewing datasets, checking the completeness of submitted information, identifying inconsistencies and helping maintain records that can support credible reporting. Careful documentation is essential because errors, missing entries or inconsistent reporting practices can affect how program progress is understood.

Another important part of the assignment involves preparing regular reports and visual summaries. The officer helps organize numerical information into tables, charts, dashboards and other accessible formats, allowing colleagues to review reported outputs, identify emerging concerns and follow up on gaps. Analytical work must be accurate, clearly explained and consistent with approved reporting requirements.

The position also supports research and evaluation activities. Depending on program needs, assignments may involve reviewing questionnaires, preparing interview guides, assisting with field monitoring, organizing collected information and contributing to quantitative or qualitative analysis. Desk research and document reviews help place program findings in context and identify information relevant to implementation.

Beyond data processing, the officer contributes to organizational learning by documenting practical experiences, recurring challenges and lessons emerging from program activities. This information can help teams assess their approaches and identify opportunities for improvement. The officer may also prepare supporting materials for technical meetings, regional discussions and learning sessions.

A suitable candidate should have an academic background in a relevant discipline, confidence working with structured information and an interest in evidence-based program management. Microsoft Excel proficiency, familiarity with analytical software, strong written communication and attention to detail are important. Professional conduct, confidentiality and responsible handling of program information are expected throughout the assignment.

Candidates should consult Equity Group Foundation's official recruitment announcement to confirm the complete eligibility criteria, work location, closing date and application procedure.

• 2 years

Data Administration and Quality Control

Maintain program datasets and associated records using approved data-management procedures.

Examine submitted information for completeness, consistency, accuracy and conformity with reporting standards.

Identify duplicate entries, missing fields, conflicting values and unusual results requiring clarification.

Coordinate routine corrections with relevant colleagues while preserving the integrity of source information.

Organize records so authorized program personnel can retrieve information efficiently for analysis and reporting.

Assist regional and program teams with routine questions about approved data systems and reporting processes.

Escalate technical problems and persistent data-quality concerns to the appropriate supervisor.

Program Monitoring and Reporting

Compile program information from authorized databases, monitoring records and reporting systems.

Prepare weekly regional reports describing implementation progress, recorded outputs, emerging issues and information gaps.

Develop tables, charts, dashboards and other visual summaries to communicate program findings.

Review calculations, reporting periods, labels and source figures before submitting analytical outputs.

Help identify inconsistencies between reported results and supporting records.

Provide accurate information for periodic reports, management discussions and authorized ad hoc requests.

Research and Evaluation Support

Assist with preparing, reviewing and testing questionnaires, interview guides and other data collection instruments.

Support monitoring visits, data-quality assessments, beneficiary engagements and evaluation exercises in accordance with approved procedures.

Organize quantitative and qualitative information using the relevant methodology and documentation requirements.

Conduct assigned descriptive analysis and qualitative reviews using suitable software and supervisory guidance where needed.

Examine findings for recurring themes, notable differences and potential implementation concerns.

Contribute data summaries, methodological notes and analytical findings to research reports and evaluation documents.

Learning and Program Collaboration

Review relevant program documents and secondary sources to support monitoring, research and evaluation activities.

Summarize useful findings, implementation experiences and lessons for program learning.

Help prepare presentations and supporting materials for program meetings, workshops and learning events.

Collaborate with regional colleagues to clarify reporting requirements and resolve routine information gaps.

Maintain orderly supporting documentation for completed analytical and reporting assignments.

Undertake related MERL duties assigned by the MERL Manager, consistent with program priorities and established procedures.

A bachelor's degree in Social Sciences, Statistics, Economics, International Development or a related discipline.
Relevant experience or demonstrated practical capability in monitoring and evaluation, research, data analysis, data management or program reporting. Confirm any mandatory experience duration from the original vacancy.

Data validation: Ability to examine records systematically, identify irregularities and support accurate information management.

Spreadsheet proficiency: Practical use of Microsoft Excel to organise datasets, perform calculations and prepare reporting outputs.

Quantitative analysis: Ability to summarise numerical information, interpret results and recognise limitations in available data.

Visual reporting: Capability to communicate findings through readable tables, charts and dashboards.

Research assistance: Skill in reviewing documents, organising evidence and supporting the use of data collection instruments.

Analytical writing: Ability to explain findings clearly, distinguish evidence from assumptions and prepare structured reports.

Information quality assurance: A careful approach to checking figures, source records, completeness and consistency.

Collaboration: Ability to communicate professionally with programme managers, regional colleagues and other authorised stakeholders.

Work organisation: Ability to prioritise assignments, maintain documentation and deliver outputs within agreed timelines.

Ethical judgement: Commitment to confidentiality, appropriate data use, professional integrity and approved research procedures.

Adaptability: Willingness to learn new tools, respond constructively to feedback and improve analytical practices.