The duties and responsibilities of the Research and Learning Specialist will include, but not limited to:

• Lead on the identification, design, and commissioning of external programme evaluations and other operational research studies for the Global Fund Programmes.
• Drive an evaluation agenda, including the identification of evaluation and research opportunities, development of research protocols, oversight of data capture for research projects, and write up of findings for publication.
• Manage all evaluation and research studies for GF programmes, including contract management, oversight and project management of external evaluators and researchers.
• Provide technical input on evaluation design and methodologies, review evaluation deliverables from internal teams as well as external service providers.
• Lead the coordination of relevant evaluation advisory committees to ensure efficient communication between stakeholders and adherence to project governance structures.
• Oversee and manage (together with SANAC and Global Fund) the evaluation plan and budget for NACOSA’s GF programmes.
• Write or contribute to publications and conference papers
• Disseminate research findings internally and externally including presentations at research days and conferences
• Coach and train team members to ensure the acquisition of knowledge and skills required by the organisation
• Lead or contribute to technical components of proposals
• Stay abreast with relevant research findings

Requirements

Required qualifications, skills and experience

• Post Graduate degree or equivalent in the Public Health or Social Sciences sector (Monitoring and Evaluation qualification preferred)
• Minimum of 5 years’ evaluation and research experience in public health or related field, preferably in HIV and AIDS.
• Demonstrated qualitative and quantitative evaluation skills, including sample design, mixed method designs, and instrument development
• Proven expertise in quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis methodologies, implementation research approaches, data quality improvement, health management information systems, data visualisation and reporting.
• M&E experience in infection prevention and control, HIV/AIDS, TB, health systems strengthening, disease surveillance.
• Familiarity with South Africa’s health management information system and other national M&E systems
• Experience with bilateral and multilateral donor M&E requirements including experience in maintaining donor relationships and communicating with donors 

Personal Competencies 

• Experience in evaluation and research studies in the HIV and AIDS sector and knowledge of the public health landscape in South Africa.
• Demonstrated experience with data analysis software
• Definite inclination to keep abreast of technical developments in the HIV, AIDS and TB fields.
• Strong technical skills regarding evaluations and research with the ability to support colleagues using this expertise and facilitate knowledge transfer
• Strong planning, time management and project management skills
• Analytical thinker who is able to interpret quantitative and qualitative data to share relevant insights for programming and grant performance.
• Experience in working and communicating across all levels, including effective interpersonal communication skills
• Ability to work independently, effectively and efficiently in a fast-paced, high stress environment
• Results-oriented, professional, accountable and proactive. Must be able to work with little supervision and take ownership of the grants
• Proficiency in English and excellent written and report writing skills
• Valid drivers’ license, own reliable vehicle and willingness to travel within South Africa.