Director Research, Monitoring and Evaluation – Nairobi | National Council for Population and Development 2025

Director Research, Monitoring and Evaluation – Nairobi | National Council for Population and Development 2025

Essential Job Details

• Position Title: Director Research, Monitoring and Evaluation
• Location: Nairobi, Kenya
• Employment Type: Full-Time
• Number of Vacancies: 1
• Reference Number: Advert No. 06/2025
• Salary: Competitive, commensurate with NCPD 2 grade
• Category/Department: Research, Monitoring & Evaluation
• Reporting To: Director General
• Application Deadline: July 1, 2025, 5:00 PM (East Africa Time)
• Contract Terms: 3-year renewable contract based on performance, until mandatory retirement age

Introduction

The research jobs in Kenya opportunity for a Director Research, Monitoring and Evaluation at the National Council for Population and Development (NCPD) in Nairobi is a prestigious leadership role for seasoned professionals in population studies and development. This position offers a unique chance to drive impactful research, shape national population policies, and lead knowledge management initiatives. Based in Nairobi, this role is ideal for candidates passionate about advancing evidence-based decision-making through high-quality research jobs in Kenya.

About National Council for Population and Development

The National Council for Population and Development (NCPD) is a semi-autonomous government agency in Kenya, established to formulate and promote population policies, programs, and research to enhance sustainable development. Headquartered in Nairobi, NCPD plays a pivotal role in coordinating population programs, analyzing demographic data, and fostering partnerships to address population and development challenges. Known for its commitment to excellence, integrity, and inclusivity, NCPD provides a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth, making it a leading employer for research jobs in Kenya.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate the development, implementation, and review of standards, guidelines, and procedures for research, monitoring, and evaluation to ensure quality and compliance.
• Oversee research and analysis of population and development issues to inform policy and program development.
• Lead the development, implementation, and review of the National Population Programme M&E Framework, Manual, and System.
• Coordinate the review and implementation of the National Research Agenda for Population and Development.
• Promote the utilization of population data for decision-making through research products such as reports, briefs, and publications.
• Monitor and evaluate the implementation of the National Population Policy to ensure alignment with national goals.
• Manage population information analysis and projection systems to support planning and forecasting.
• Oversee the Population Centre of Excellence and knowledge management functions to foster innovation and best practices.
• Lead capacity building initiatives in population and development, focusing on data collection, analysis, and reporting.
• Provide a platform for information exchange, knowledge sharing, best practices, and lessons learned in population programs.
• Develop strategic partnerships with stakeholders to enhance research and M&E outcomes.
• Prepare and present reports on research, monitoring, and evaluation activities to the Director General and other stakeholders.
• Supervise and mentor staff within the Research, Monitoring, and Evaluation division to build a high-performing team.

Qualifications and Skills

Required Qualifications

• Cumulative 15 years of experience, with at least 3 years at the level of Assistant Director Population (Grade NCPD 4) or an equivalent position in a comparable organization.
• Master’s degree in Population Studies, Demography, Public Health, Sociology, Anthropology, Geography, Economics, Population Health, Political Science, or an equivalent qualification from a recognized institution.
• Leadership and Management Course Certificate from a recognized institution.
• Membership to a relevant professional body (e.g., Population Association of Kenya).
• Proficiency in computer applications, including statistical software (e.g., SPSS, STATA, R) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Demonstrated managerial and administrative capability with a proven track record of professional competence and results.
• Thorough understanding of national goals, policies, objectives, and the ability to align them with NCPD’s mandate.
• Compliance with Chapter Six of the Kenyan Constitution, including clearances from:
  • Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA)
  • Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC)
  • Higher Education Loans Board (HELB)
  • Any Registered Credit Reference Bureau
  • Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI)

Preferred Qualifications

• Postgraduate qualification in Population Studies or Demography.
• Experience in leading large-scale population research or monitoring and evaluation projects.
• Advanced skills in data analysis and visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI).
• Published research in peer-reviewed journals or policy briefs on population and development.
• Familiarity with Kenya’s National Population Policy and related frameworks.

Company Culture and Values

The National Council for Population and Development fosters a culture of excellence, innovation, and collaboration. Employees are encouraged to uphold integrity, drive impactful research, and contribute to national development goals. NCPD values diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, creating a supportive environment where staff can thrive. The organization is committed to ethical practices and transparency, ensuring a workplace that aligns with Kenya’s vision for sustainable development.

How to Apply

Apply now for the Director Research, Monitoring and Evaluation position, one of the top research jobs in Kenya. Submit the following documents:

• Application letter clearly stating the position and advert number (06/2025).
• Detailed Curriculum Vitae including:
  • Names and contacts of three (3) professional references
  • Current position/grade
  • Daytime telephone numbers
• Copies of academic and professional certificates and transcripts.
• Copy of National Identity Card or Passport.
• Clearances from:
  • Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA)
  • Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC)
  • Higher Education Loans Board (HELB)
  • Any Registered Credit Reference Bureau
  • Directorate of Criminal Investigations (Police Clearance Certificate)
• Membership certificates from relevant professional bodies.

Application Methods

• Hard Copy Applications: Display “Advert No. 06/2025 – Director Research, Monitoring and Evaluation” on the envelope and deliver to:
  The Director General
  National Council for Population and Development
  P.O. Box 48994-00100
  The Chancery, 4th Floor
  NAIROBI, KENYA
• Online Applications: Send to recruitment@ncpd.go.ke with “Advert No. 06/2025 – Director Research, Monitoring and Evaluation” in the subject line.

Important Notes:

• Use only one submission method (hard copy or email).
• Applications must be received by July 1, 2025, 5:00 PM (East Africa Time).
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Canvassing will lead to automatic disqualification.
• Detailed job specifications are available at NCPD Careers.

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Detailed Job Overview

The Director Research, Monitoring and Evaluation role is a senior leadership position within NCPD, offering a platform to shape national population research and policy. This is one of the most impactful research jobs in Kenya, requiring expertise in population studies, monitoring, and evaluation. The successful candidate will lead strategic initiatives, oversee the Population Centre of Excellence, and drive knowledge management to support evidence-based decision-making in Nairobi.

Why This Role Matters

This position is critical to advancing NCPD’s mandate of promoting sustainable population and development policies. As a research job in Kenya, it directly influences national planning by providing data-driven insights on population dynamics. The Director will play a pivotal role in ensuring the National Population Policy is effectively monitored and evaluated, contributing to Kenya’s development goals.

Career Growth Opportunities

This research job in Kenya offers significant opportunities for professional development. The Director will gain exposure to high-level policy-making, lead cutting-edge research, and build networks with national and international stakeholders. NCPD supports career growth through training, conferences, and opportunities to publish research, making this role a stepping stone for leadership in population and development.

Work Environment

NCPD provides a dynamic and collaborative work environment in Nairobi, where innovation and impact are prioritized. The Director will work closely with the Director General, lead a team of researchers, and engage with government agencies, NGOs, and international partners. The role combines office-based strategic work with occasional fieldwork to support data collection and stakeholder engagement.

Key Skills for Success

To excel in this research job in Kenya, candidates must demonstrate expertise in research design, data analysis, and monitoring and evaluation frameworks. Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and communication skills are essential for managing teams and influencing policy. Proficiency in statistical tools (e.g., SPSS, STATA) and a deep understanding of population dynamics will set candidates apart.

Impact on the Organization

As a Director Research, Monitoring and Evaluation, your work will drive NCPD’s ability to deliver evidence-based population policies. By leading research, monitoring, and knowledge management, you’ll ensure that population data informs national planning, contributing to sustainable development and improved quality of life for Kenyans.

Application Process Details

To apply for this research job in Kenya, ensure your application is complete and clearly labeled with the advert number (06/2025). Hard copy applications must display the job title and advert number on the envelope, while email submissions should include it in the subject line. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered. Visit NCPD Careers for further details.

Why Nairobi?

Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, is a vibrant hub for professionals, offering a blend of urban opportunities and cultural richness. This research job in Kenya at NCPD provides a chance to build a career in a dynamic city while contributing to national development. With a competitive salary and professional growth opportunities, this role is ideal for senior researchers seeking impactful research jobs in Kenya.

Commitment to Equal Opportunity

NCPD is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion. Persons with disabilities and individuals from marginalized groups with the requisite qualifications are strongly encouraged to apply. The organization upholds strict anti-corruption policies, ensuring a transparent recruitment process for all research jobs in Kenya.

Additional Responsibilities

In addition to core duties, the Director may:

• Represent NCPD at national and international forums on population and development.
• Develop funding proposals to support research and M&E initiatives.
• Evaluate program performance to ensure alignment with strategic objectives.
• Advise policymakers on population trends and their implications.
• Foster innovation in data collection and analysis methodologies.

Professional Development

NCPD invests in its employees through access to training, workshops, and certifications in population studies and monitoring and evaluation. This research job in Kenya offers opportunities to enhance leadership skills, publish research, and engage with global population networks, positioning the Director for further career advancement.

Community Impact

By leading this research job in Kenya, you’ll contribute to NCPD’s mission of addressing population challenges to improve quality of life. Your research and M&E efforts will support policies that promote sustainable development, health, and economic growth, making a lasting impact on Kenyan communities.

Application Tips

To stand out for this research job in Kenya, tailor your CV to highlight your experience in population research, M&E, and leadership. Your application letter should demonstrate your understanding of NCPD’s mandate and your ability to drive strategic research. Ensure all required documents, including clearances and professional memberships, are included to avoid disqualification.

Final Notes

The Director Research, Monitoring and Evaluation position is a rare opportunity to lead transformative research at a leading government agency in Nairobi. As one of the top research jobs in Kenya, it offers a competitive salary, a supportive work environment, and a chance to shape national population policies. Apply today to advance your career with NCPD.