MEL Specialist – Evidence, Evaluation & Analytics

About Busara

Since 2014, Busara has evolved from a small behavioral science lab in Nairobi into a boutique research and advisory organization. Our diverse team of over 130 staff from 15+ countries has engaged in diverse projects across more than 50 countries in sectors like agriculture, health, governance, and inclusive finance. While headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, we have expanded our footprint with offices now in India, Uganda, Tanzania, Nigeria, and Latin America.

Role Purpose Statement

This role requires strong evaluation design, research, and analytical skills to generate high-quality evidence and improve decision-making across Busara’s behavioral science projects. It is well-suited for someone who is highly comfortable working with data, enjoys designing and implementing evaluations, and can translate complex findings into clear, visual, and actionable insights.

The Specialist will support and lead evaluation design, conduct rigorous analysis, and develop practical Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) tools and processes to strengthen internal systems. The role also involves working closely with project teams to ensure evidence is effectively connected to strategy, implementation, and adaptive management across our portfolio.

The ideal candidate is a strong analytical thinker and clear communicator, with technical confidence in MEL practice. They will be able to design and lead learning reviews, conduct MEL assessments and trainings, synthesize evidence across multiple countries, and support teams in using data and insights to drive continuous learning and improvement.

Key Accountabilities/Responsibilities 

The MEL Specialist will work closely with Busara Project Leads and the research team to perform a variety of tasks, including, but not limited to:

• Design evaluations and reviews, including sampling plans, analytical frameworks, and fit-for-purpose methodologies.
•  Lead the design and strengthening of Theories of Change, learning frameworks, and measurement strategies.
• Design and apply appropriate evaluation designs, such as mixed-methods, theory-based, quasi-experimental, or contribution analysis.
• Lead or support data collection, including designing qualitative and quantitative tools and protocols.
• Conduct rigorous analysis of primary and secondary datasets to generate actionable insights.
• Ensure all evaluations meet quality, ethical, and learning standards, and are tailored to decision-making needs.

• Conduct quantitative analyses using multiple data sources (descriptive statistics, trends, segmentation, simple modeling).
• Develop clear, engaging visualizations (charts, dashboards, summary visuals) that help teams understand patterns quickly.
• Create simple dashboards using tools like Google Sheets, Excel, Data Studio, or similar.
• Present findings visually in ways that support rapid learning and decision-making.

• Develop MEL plans, indicator definitions, and practical measurement frameworks.
• Create user-friendly tools such as surveys, interview guides, templates, and checklists.
• Strengthen internal data management systems, including data flows, documentation practices, and verification steps.
• Lead the design of data quality assessments (DQAs) and recommend improvements.

• Produce clear, well-structured evaluation reports, evidence summaries, and learning briefs.
• Support learning sessions, reflection workshops, and sense-making meetings.
• Write case studies, short briefs, and presentations tailored to internal and external audiences.

• Strengthen MEL capability across Busara by guiding associates and analysts.
• Build and maintain tools, templates, and internal guidance notes.
• Support MEL-related business development by contributing to scopes of work and proposals.

We encourage you to apply and join us on our journey in advancing behavioral science in the Global South!

Data Privacy Statement 

As part of Busara’s recruitment process, personal information provided by an applicant through various means will be collected and stored. This includes but is not limited to the information which the candidate provides to Busara in their application and profile, any data from role assessments, interviews information including video interviews and data provided to us by your referees. This data will be used to evaluate the application, communicate with the candidate, and where a candidate has selected this option, for future recruitment opportunities. All this information will be treated as part of each job application record and only retained for the required record retention period. 

By choosing to apply for this position at Busara, you are giving Busara your consent to process your personal data as described above. We are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring that your personal information is secure.