Mercy Corps Seeks MMERL Advisor for Innovative Childcare Project in Addis Ababa
Mercy Corps, a leading global humanitarian organization, has announced a key leadership vacancy for a Market system and Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning (MMERL) Advisor. This is a senior role based in Addis Ababa, central to a groundbreaking two-year project funded by the Conrad Hilton Foundation.
The project, “Empowering Families, Enriching Lives,” is designed to scale up evidence-based childcare solutions to foster early childhood development and drive economic empowerment for women, youth, and displaced communities. If you are an expert in market systems development and MERL with a passion for creating systemic change, this is a unique opportunity to lead a high-impact initiative.
Why This Role is Important
This is more than a standard M&E position; it’s a strategic role at the intersection of social and economic development. As the MMERL Advisor, you will:
- Drive a High-Impact Project: Lead the technical and learning components of a project that directly addresses the critical link between affordable childcare and women’s economic participation.
- Utilize a Market Systems Approach: Go beyond traditional aid by designing and implementing innovative, market-based interventions that create sustainable jobs and strengthen local economies.
- Influence Policy: Your research and data will support evidence-based advocacy to institutionalize childcare as a fundamental service at local and national levels.
- Work with a Leading INGO: Join a globally respected organization known for its bold, community-driven solutions in over 40 countries.
- Collaborate with Key Stakeholders: Engage with government agencies, private sector actors, and development partners to drive systemic reforms.
About the Role: MMERL Advisor
The MMERL Advisor will provide technical leadership for the project’s interventions and oversee its entire learning framework. This includes designing market-based solutions, managing the MERL strategy, and ensuring all data and insights are used for adaptive management and reporting.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Leadership & MERL Framework:
- Develop and implement a robust MERL framework aligned with project objectives.
- Lead the design of MERL tools and systems to measure impact and foster a culture of data-driven decision-making.
- Market Systems Interventions:
- Design and implement innovative, market-based interventions focusing on childcare services and inclusive labor market opportunities.
- Map key market actors and value chains to identify and engage implementing partners.
- Program Implementation & Quality Assurance:
- Oversee the implementation of all MERL activities, ensuring accurate data collection and reporting.
- Provide technical guidance and support to implementing partners.
- Produce timely, high-quality reports for donors, government, and internal stakeholders.
- Team Leadership & Capacity Building:
- Provide technical leadership and mentoring to project staff and partners.
- Build the capacity of the team in effective M&E systems, data analysis, and learning practices.
Who We’re Looking For (Qualifications & Experience)
Required Knowledge and Experience
- Education: A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Sciences, Economics, International Development, Statistics, or a related field.
- Experience: A minimum of 3 years of relevant professional experience, particularly in Market Systems Development (MSD) and Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MERL).
- Technical Expertise:
- Advanced knowledge of MERL practices, research methodologies, and impact measurement.
- Familiarity with labor market systems, childcare services, and employment ecosystems.
- Proven experience implementing MERL frameworks and managing large-scale data collection.
- Languages: Fluency in English and Amharic is required.
Success Factors
The ideal candidate will have strong analytical, strategic planning, and project management skills. You should be a resilient and flexible professional with excellent communication skills, capable of working effectively under pressure and conveying technical information to diverse audiences.
Application Deadline 📅
The deadline for all applications is Monday, October 20, 2025.
With the deadline just over a week away, interested candidates are strongly encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
How to Apply
All applications must be submitted electronically through the official Mercy Corps career portal.
Step 1: Prepare your CV, a list of three professional references, and all other applicable documents.
Step 2: Click the link below to access the online application form.
Step 3: Complete the application and upload your documents before the deadline.
➡️ Click Here to Apply on the Official Mercy Corps Website
Please Note: Mercy Corps is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding. Qualified female and young candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
