Research and Impact Manager

This exciting role oversees two critical functions at MEST:
Leading research to generate new insights into the Ghanaian entrepreneurship and technology ecosystems; andDirecting the monitoring and evaluation of MEST's programs and their participants, aligning with our strategy, program design, partnerships, and existing program data. It will also involve impact measurement of all current and future programs. A key responsibility of this position will be leading the design, implementation, impact measurement and evaluation of MEST Africa’s digital skill training programs like Generation’s Ghana Remote and Online Work (GROW) Program, and accelerator programs like the UNICEF StartUp Lab and the MEST Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship, UNDP Young Africa Innovates program.

1. Research Objectives
Design, develop and implement research projects related to entrepreneurship, technology and innovation topics in Ghana and wider AfricaDesign and implement research initiatives to bolster existing and prospective program objectives and enhance project outcomes.Develop and compile comprehensive narrative reports and impact reports for all projects for the respective program partners.Manage the creation, development, and dissemination of research reports, impact reports, and various program-related documents.

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2. Impact Objectives
Design, develop and implement (short and long-term) impact frameworks (M&E) to monitor MEST Programs (including Training Program) tracking both impact outputs and long-term outcomes, where possible.Work with key MEST staff to learn what key indicators should be tracked and what areas to investigate for researchWork with the Strategic Director, Programs Director, and third-party finance and accounting vendor to ensure all reporting (research and impact evaluation) are delivered on timeSupport team members with designing and implementing research and impact systems Develop and support current and new client relationships and external partnerships.Research Responsibilities
Manage and conduct primary and secondary research on topics related to youth entrepreneurship and employment, startups, SMEs, technology and innovation in Ghana and beyondWrite comprehensive narrative reports detailing project activities, challenges, and achievementsWrite impact assets(reports, articles, events) to showcase MEST’s impact as well as the effects of projects on participants Oversee the design, production, and publication of research findings, reports, and other program materials.

Impact Responsibilities
Oversee, manage, and monitor day-to-day research and impact operations across the Program teamMonitor all MEST Programs’ impact performance goals, progress, and obstaclesGenerate actionable insights based on findings/results for teams to adapt, change, and iterate programsBuild and maintain key relationships with key program staff and external partners to
ensure proper research impact data collection and analysis.
Support, mentor, and manage your team across all active projects.
Interface with MEST Strategic Director, Programs Director, and program managers to ensure key program impact lessons are shared across MEST core programs and vice versaUphold existing MEST policies ensuring Ghanaian legislative regulations are followedContinuous excellence in written and verbal communicationRepresent supported projects in relevant forums and networks as needed

Required Qualifications
7+ years experience in impact monitoring and evaluation design and delivery at an analytical and managerial level in entrepreneurship, software, and working with young people

Strong track record in developing, implementing, and managing impact M&E system(s) across multiple programs in resource-constrained environments to maximize quality delivery, generate clear insights, and guide strategic and operational action

Strong experience in conducting primary and secondary research

Strong working knowledge of software, entrepreneurship, and/or startups and SMEs in Africa

Experience managing a full-time team

Experience working across different function areas in a company

Bachelor’s degree