UN Global Pulse Seeks Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning and Portfolio Lead

The position, Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning and Portfolio Lead, is designed for a senior expert who will bridge strategic portfolio management with evidence-driven impact measurement.

Global Kenya16 hours ago

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UN Global Pulse Seeks Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning and Portfolio Lead

New York / Global (Remote/Hybrid) – April 16, 2026 – The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) has opened applications for a critical leadership role within the UN Secretary-General’s Innovation Lab, UN Global Pulse. The position, Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning and Portfolio Lead, is designed for a senior expert who will bridge strategic portfolio management with evidence-driven impact measurement.

The deadline for applications is April 26, 2026.

UN Global Pulse operates at the cutting edge of data science, responsible AI, and digital solutions to help the UN family anticipate and respond to global challenges, from conflict to climate change. This new role reports directly to the Deputy Head of Office and is central to transforming how the UN scales high-potential innovations.

Unlike traditional M&E roles, this position combines portfolio governance with adaptive learning. The successful candidate will steer the UN Global Pulse Accelerator Programme, UN80 priorities, and the DISHA programme by ensuring every initiative aligns with a shared Theory of Change.

Key Responsibilities

The Lead will be responsible for building and integrating the organization’s MEL framework, ensuring compliance, and embedding Results-Based Management (RBM) across the entire portfolio lifecycle. Key deliverables include:

Institutionalizing Adaptive Learning: Facilitating structured learning sessions and portfolio reviews using systems thinking.
Strategic Advisory: Synthesizing data to advise senior leadership on portfolio prioritization and scaling pathways.
Team Leadership: Supervising the internal MEL team to ensure high-quality, timely outputs.
Governance: Driving portfolio coherence from experimentation through to systemic impact.

Who Should Apply?

UNOPS is seeking a candidate with a proven track record in international development and innovation.

Education:

An advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in International Relations, Economics, M&E, or Business Administration with 5 years of relevant experience; OR
A first-level university degree (Bachelor’s) with 7 years of relevant experience.

Required Experience:

Minimum of two years working specifically within an innovation context (agile, digital transformation, or data science projects).
Demonstrated experience designing and applying Theory of Change frameworks.
Experience in humanitarian or development sectors (UN or public sector context preferred).

Desired Skills:

Experience with agile project management and portfolio management.
Designing mixed-method evaluations for complex or uncertain environments.
Facilitating strategic reflection workshops and leading multidisciplinary teams.

Why Join UN Global Pulse?

UN Global Pulse is not a traditional monitoring office. It is the Secretary-General’s flagship lab for restoring public trust in technology. The team operates across hubs in Uganda, Indonesia, Finland, and the United States, focusing on making digital innovation inclusive, accessible, and ethical.

This role offers a unique opportunity to move beyond simple metrics and actually shape how the UN family transforms through data-driven, responsible innovation.