Evidence and Learning Coordinator, Moldova

Contract type: Fixed Term Contract
Duration: 1 October 2024 – 31 March 2025, with the possibility of extension

Please note: This position is contingent upon receipt of funding and donor approval.

ABOUT IWPR:

Founded in 1991 and operating currently in three dozen countries around the world, the Institute for War & Peace Reporting (IWPR) is an independent nonprofit organisation that supports journalists and civil society to help drive change in countries experiencing conflict, crisis, and transition. Our work includes:

• Training and mentoring: IWPR trains and mentors journalists and rights activists to improve their ability to identify and present factual information.
• Providing platforms: IWPR helps local talent establish and strengthen media outlets and civic groups.
• Removing barriers: IWPR works with partners to remove barriers to free expression and citizen engagement
• Strengthening media and civil society: IWPR helps strengthen the ability of media and civil society to speak out.
• Empowering societies: IWPR helps societies find their own solutions.

IWPR’s reporting has exposed violations, led to political and legal reform, and improved people’s lives.

PROJECT BACKGROUND:

The Building Resilience through Innovation and Collaboration (BRIC) project aims to strengthen the capacity, collaboration, and effectiveness of local Moldovan organizations to counter disinformation and enhance the resilience of the Moldovan public. The program addresses the vulnerability of Moldova’s information landscape to disinformation, malign influences, and hostile interference.

SUMMARY:

The Evidence and Learning Coordinator will contribute to the overall implementation of the BRIC project, ensuring its smooth execution and alignment with strategic goals. This role involves coordinating project activities, managing relationships with local partners, and ensuring that objectives are met.

While Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) will be an important component of the role, the focus will be on project implementation, capacity building, and driving collaboration to strengthen Moldova’s resilience to disinformation and malign influences. The role will also involve gathering evidence to inform the project's strategies and goals.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL):

• Coordinate all MEL activities related to the BRIC project;
• Ensure accurate data collection, analysis, and reporting, including outcome tracking to measure the project's impact on countering disinformation;
• Liaise with local partners to gather evidence on disinformation trends, audience vulnerabilities, and project success;
• Review subgrantees' monthly narrative reports, provide constructive feedback, and gather essential information for organizational and donor reporting;
• Participate in external project evaluations and assist evaluation teams in conducting on-site activities;
• Regularly review the M&E and operational plans and track the progress towards planned project objectives.

Capacity Building & Mentorship:

• Assist in organizing local training sessions and mentorship activities with Moldovan stakeholders;
• Help develop and implement a capacity-building plan in collaboration with the Project Manager;
• Provide feedback and gather data from training participants and stakeholders to inform ongoing improvements;

Evidence Gathering & Research:

• Support research efforts related to disinformation in Moldova, particularly identifying vulnerabilities in the information environment;
• Work with IWPR's local partners to gather evidence on the impact of external influence and disinformation;
• Utilize research findings to adapt project interventions and support future project design;
• Independent Countering Disinformation Centre:
• Assist other team members in running the Independent Countering Disinformation Centre (ICDC) in Chisinau and measuring impact of its activities;
• Engage with stakeholders to ensure effective collaboration in fighting disinformation.

Coordination & Project Support:

• Collaborate with IWPR’s local partners to ensure smooth project implementation, including financial reporting and event organization;
• Work closely with other members of IWPR staff in Moldova, especially with the Evidence and Learning Coordinator engaged in the Countering Disinformation Moldova (CDM) project;
• Provide administrative support to the BRIC Project Manager, Moldova Programmes Director, and ICDC Project Manager, including preparing reports and organizing events;
• Travel to various regions of Moldova as needed to attend events, workshops, or interview stakeholders;
• Assist the Project Manager in identifying new ideas for future IWPR projects in Moldova.
• Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration:
• Foster cross-sectoral collaboration among organizations and institutions working to counter disinformation;
• Attend conferences, workshops, and other events to represent the project and gather insights for enhancing project strategies.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Advanced degree (minimum Master’s or equivalent) in Communications, Media Studies, Political Science, International Relations, or a related field;
• At least 5 years of experience working within civil society, media, or an international organization;
• Proven track record of implementing projects focused on countering disinformation, media literacy, or related fields;
• Experience in Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL), strategic communication, operational management, and advocacy.

Skills and Abilities:

• Experience in MEL: Demonstrated experience in Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning, preferably in the fields of media, governance, or counter-disinformation;
• Research Skills: Strong ability to conduct qualitative and quantitative research, particularly in relation to disinformation and media monitoring;
• Communication Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to liaise effectively with local and international partners;
• Project Management: Experience managing or supporting projects, including event organization, reporting, and financial oversight;
• Adaptability: Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, with changing priorities, and across different regions and stakeholders;
• Language Skills: Fluency in English and Romanian is required; Russian is a plus;
• Time Commitment: The Evidence and Learning Coordinator is expected to devote necessary time and attention to the successful performance of the role;
• Compliance: The Evidence and Learning Coordinator must comply with all relevant laws, company policies, and health and safety procedures;
• Flexibility: The role may require participation in events outside of normal working hours.

Interested candidates are invited to submit their CV, a cover letter outlining their suitability for the role, and three references by 25 September 2024. IWPR will offer a competitive salary to successful applicants.