MEL Coordinator/Deputy Center Manager (Asia focused)

MEL Coordinator/Deputy Center Manager (Asia focused)

Remote, Part-Time, Contract

About IREX

IREX is a global development and education organization committed to fostering a just, prosperous, and inclusive world. Operating in over 100 countries with an annual portfolio exceeding $100 million, IREX focuses on cultivating leaders, empowering youth, strengthening institutions, and increasing access to education and information.

Position Summary

The MEL Coordinator/Deputy Center Manager will oversee the monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) aspects of IREX’s media projects in South, East, and Southeast Asia. Under the supervision of the Center Manager, the Coordinator will ensure high-quality delivery of holistic safety trainings, trainings-of-trainers (ToT), and risk management support for media practitioners and human rights defenders in the region.

Candidates located in Asia (e.g., Thailand, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Indonesia) with strong regional knowledge, MEL expertise, and prior experience in coordinating training and emergency support activities are preferred.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Project Monitoring and Coordination
  • Implement project plans and monitor outcomes of ToTs and related activities.
  • Identify partners and beneficiary groups using regional networks.
  • Provide strategic and technical leadership as a liaison between IREX and stakeholders.
• Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting
  • Conduct ongoing MEL activities, including data collection, analysis, and reporting.
  • Create and implement exercises (e.g., pre/post-tests) to evaluate training outcomes.
  • Mentor partner organizations in developing efficient and impactful MEL practices.
  • Develop, tailor, and implement MEL tools as required.
• Curriculum and Content Development
  • Support curriculum adaptation and development for activities.
  • Assist in creating content that aligns with learning objectives and project goals.
• Participant Engagement and Risk Management
  • Coordinate follow-ups with ToT participants for mentorship support.
  • Vet and refer risk assessment and mitigation requests for journalists and human rights defenders.
• Capacity Building and Gender Initiatives
  • Support gender equality and social inclusion (GESI) initiatives.
  • Train and build capacity for participants and partners in MEL practices.
• Logistics and Communication
  • Organize logistics for participants as needed.
  • Draft training and periodic activity reports for internal and external stakeholders.

Skills and Experience

• Essential Requirements
  • Familiarity with holistic safety challenges for journalists and human rights defenders.
  • MEL Expertise: Proven experience in monitoring, evaluation, data collection, and analysis.
  • Strong understanding of the media and civil society landscape in Asia.
  • Experience in project coordination, including liaising with partners and at-risk groups.
  • Background in training, ToT programs, or knowledge of adult learning techniques.
• Preferred Qualifications
  • Proficiency in data management systems and online survey tools.
  • Analytical skills and experience presenting findings in clear, comprehensive reports.
  • Expertise in gender equality and social inclusion.
  • Experience in risk mitigation strategies for vulnerable populations.
• Soft Skills
  • Excellent interpersonal and mentoring abilities.
  • High-quality written and verbal communication skills in English.
  • Ability to work independently and adapt to evolving project needs.

Main Selection Criteria

• Knowledge of safety challenges for journalists and civil society actors in South, East, and Southeast Asia.
• Proven experience in MEL activities and risk management coordination.
• Training or mentoring experience with a focus on inclusive practices.
• Demonstrated ability to liaise with partners and support at-risk groups.

Application Process

• Submit:
  • CV and cover letter summarizing relevant experience.
  • Hourly consultant rate (in $ USD).
• IREX may request additional information, including references, and reserves the right to extend the duration or scope of contracts based on funding and performance.

Make an impact on the safety and resilience of journalists and human rights defenders in Asia by advancing inclusive MEL practices and supporting critical risk management strategies.