Senior MERL & Rapid-Experiment Leader

SmartStart; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading NGO network in Johannesburg is seeking a Senior Learning and Experiments Manager to enhance their adaptive management and program effectiveness. The ideal candidate will have a Master’s degree and at least 5 years of experience in monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MERL). Responsibilities include designing developmental evaluations, leading rapid experiments, and building capacity for data-driven decision-making. This role supports a culture of innovation within the organization and its broader network.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in MERL or adaptive management.
• Proven ability to synthesize complex data into actionable insights.
• Experience with social impact organizations and relevant programs.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of developmental evaluations.
• Develop monitoring and evaluation frameworks to track program impact.
• Facilitate reflective practices and learning loops across teams.

Skills

Developmental evaluation expertise

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Fluency in African languages

Education

Master’s degree in Monitoring & Evaluation or related field

Tools

Power BI

Microsoft Dynamics 365

Job description

A leading NGO network in Johannesburg is seeking a Senior Learning and Experiments Manager to enhance their adaptive management and program effectiveness. The ideal candidate will have a Master’s degree and at least 5 years of experience in monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MERL). Responsibilities include designing developmental evaluations, leading rapid experiments, and building capacity for data-driven decision-making. This role supports a culture of innovation within the organization and its broader network.