Monitoring & Evaluation Officer

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Overview:
The Monitoring & Evaluation Specialist at Finsphere Finance is responsible for developing and implementing monitoring and evaluation (M&E) frameworks to assess the performance, impact, and effectiveness of the company’s lending activities. This role involves collecting, analysing, and reporting on data related to loan performance, client outcomes, and overall program impact. The Monitoring & Evaluation Specialist plays a crucial role in ensuring that Finsphere Finance’s lending practices are aligned with the company’s strategic goals, regulatory requirements, and the needs of clients, particularly in the tourism sector.

Key Responsibilities:
1. Monitoring and Evaluation Framework Development:

- Develop and implement M&E frameworks and tools to assess the performance and impact of Finsphere Finance’s lending activities.
- Design indicators, data collection methods, and reporting templates to measure key outcomes and objectives.
- Collaborate with the Chief Risk Officer and other stakeholders to ensure M&E frameworks align with the company’s strategic goals and compliance requirements.

2. Data Collection and Analysis:

- Collect and analyse data on loan performance, repayment rates, client outcomes, and other key metrics.
- Use quantitative and qualitative methods to assess the impact of loans on clients, particularly those in the tourism sector.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of M&E data, ensuring data integrity and security.

3. Reporting and Documentation:

- Prepare regular M&E reports for senior management, providing insights into the performance and impact of lending activities.
- Develop dashboards and visualizations to present M&E data in a clear and accessible format.
- Document lessons learned and best practices, providing recommendations for improving lending practices and program outcomes.

4. Compliance and Quality Assurance:

- Ensure that M&E activities comply with South African laws and regulations, including reporting requirements for SEFA and other funding partners.
- Conduct regular audits and quality checks to ensure the accuracy and reliability of M&E data.
- Implement internal controls to safeguard M&E data and ensure compliance with company policies.

5. Program Evaluation and Impact Assessment:

- Conduct in-depth evaluations of specific lending programs, assessing their effectiveness, efficiency, and impact.
- Use impact assessment methods to evaluate the social, economic, and environmental outcomes of loans, particularly in the tourism sector.
- Provide feedback and recommendations to improve program design and implementation, enhancing the impact and sustainability of lending activities.

6. Stakeholder Engagement and Communication:

- Work closely with loan officers, business development managers, and other team members to gather M&E data and insights.
- Engage with clients and beneficiaries to gather feedback and assess their satisfaction with Finsphere Finance’s services.
- Communicate M&E findings and insights to internal and external stakeholders, including funders, partners, and regulatory authorities.

7. Training and Capacity Building:

- Provide training and support to staff on M&E processes, tools, and best practices.
- Build the capacity of team members to collect and use M&E data effectively, ensuring a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
- Develop and deliver training materials, workshops, and resources to support M&E activities.

Qualifications:

- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Social Sciences, Business Administration, or a related field; a Master’s degree or professional certification in monitoring and evaluation is preferred.
- Experience: Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in monitoring and evaluation, impact assessment, or related fields, preferably in the financial services or development sectors in South Africa.
- Skills:

- Strong knowledge of M&E methodologies, tools, and best practices.
- Proficiency in data analysis software and M&E tools (e.g., Excel, SPSS, Stata).
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data collection and analysis.
- Good understanding of South African regulatory requirements and reporting standards.

Key Competencies:

- Analytical Thinking: Ability to analyze complex data and generate insights that inform decision-making and program improvement.
- Attention to Detail: High level of accuracy in data collection, analysis, and reporting.
- Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey M&E findings and recommendations clearly and effectively.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring effective collaboration and communication.
- Continuous Improvement: Commitment to learning and innovation, using M&E findings to drive improvements in lending practices and program outcomes.

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