Essential Job Details

• Position Title: Data & Accountability Officer
• Location: Nairobi, Kenya
• Employment Type: Full-Time
• Number of Vacancies: 1
• Salary: KES 80,000 – KES 120,000 Monthly (Estimated based on market research from reputable sources: PayScale and Glassdoor for mid-level MEAL/data roles in Nairobi’s NGO sector)
• Category/Department: Data, Business Analysis and AI / ICT / Computer
• Reporting To: Global Impact Advisor / MEAL Manager
• Application Deadline: 15 September 2025

Introduction

The data & accountability officer role at HelpAge International in Nairobi, Kenya, offers a transformative opportunity for a skilled professional to strengthen data management and accountability practices within a global network dedicated to advancing the rights and well-being of older people. This position focuses on administering digital systems, ensuring high-quality data, and fostering transparent feedback mechanisms to support impactful humanitarian and development programs. Designed for experts in monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning (MEAL) and information systems, the data & accountability officer role provides a platform to contribute to meaningful initiatives while advancing a career in non-profit data governance. By joining HelpAge International, you’ll drive evidence-based strategies, enhance stakeholder engagement, and make a tangible difference in the lives of older populations across the globe.

About HelpAge International

HelpAge International serves as the secretariat for the HelpAge Global Network, a coalition of organizations and individuals working to promote the rights and address the needs of older women and men worldwide. Operating across national and international levels, the network advocates for age-inclusive policies, delivers impactful programs, and fights discrimination and poverty among older populations. With a strong commitment to sustainable development and humanitarian response, HelpAge International leverages data-driven strategies to maximize program effectiveness and global advocacy. The organization fosters a collaborative, inclusive culture that prioritizes innovation in MEAL practices, making it an ideal environment for a data & accountability officer to excel in driving data excellence and supporting transformative change for older communities.

Key Responsibilities

Data Systems Management

• Administer the Digital MEAL System (DMS) and HelpAge CONNECT platform, ensuring data remains accurate, up-to-date, and accessible to authorized users for program monitoring and evaluation in the data & accountability officer role.
• Coordinate global data submissions and updates, collaborating with operations and IT support teams to ensure seamless integration and accessibility across the network.
• Troubleshoot technical issues with DMS and CONNECT platforms, working with IT teams to resolve problems and contribute to system enhancements in the data & accountability officer capacity.
• Monitor system performance to identify bottlenecks, recommending optimizations to streamline data workflows and improve efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with international data protection standards, including GDPR and humanitarian data guidelines, to safeguard sensitive information in the data & accountability officer role.
• Integrate new data sources into existing platforms to create comprehensive data ecosystems that support robust program monitoring.
• Document system configurations, user guides, and protocols to facilitate onboarding and ongoing support for staff and network members.
• Liaise with external vendors to ensure cost-effective and reliable maintenance of data platforms, enhancing system reliability.
• Maintain system logs to track usage and performance, ensuring transparency and accountability in data operations.
• Support the adoption of new features in DMS and CONNECT to align with evolving organizational needs.

Data Collection and Quality Assurance

• Lead scheduled data collection cycles, partnering with programme teams and network members to gather reliable and relevant data in the data & accountability officer role.
• Conduct comprehensive data validation, cleaning, and quality assurance checks to ensure dataset integrity and usability across all programs.
• Align data collection efforts with HelpAge’s Global Impact Framework, ensuring data supports strategic objectives and key performance indicators.
• Develop standardized data collection tools and protocols to streamline processes, minimize errors, and enhance consistency in the data & accountability officer role.
• Perform regular audits of data entries, identifying discrepancies and implementing corrective measures to maintain high data quality.
• Support field teams with real-time data entry guidance, ensuring accuracy and completeness in data submissions.
• Analyze data gaps and propose strategies to improve collection methods, enhancing future cycles’ effectiveness.
• Uphold ethical data handling practices, particularly for sensitive information related to vulnerable older populations, in the data & accountability officer role.
• Train programme teams on data collection best practices to ensure consistency and reliability across the network.
• Monitor data submission timelines to ensure compliance with reporting schedules and donor requirements.

Reporting and Visualisation

• Collate and visualize data for key organizational outputs, such as the Annual Report and Learning Report, to highlight achievements and insights in the data & accountability officer role.
• Create interactive dashboards and analytics reports using tools like Power BI, tailored for internal decision-making and external communications.
• Assist the Global Impact Advisor in analyzing trends and performance across programmes and strategic priorities, delivering actionable recommendations.
• Design customized reports to meet donor requirements and internal review needs, ensuring clarity, timeliness, and relevance.
• Utilize advanced visualization techniques to communicate complex data narratives to diverse audiences, including non-technical stakeholders, in the data & accountability officer role.
• Automate reporting processes to reduce manual effort and increase efficiency, leveraging tools like Excel and Power BI.
• Refine reporting templates based on feedback to enhance clarity, usability, and impact for organizational outputs.
• Contribute to knowledge products, such as infographics, presentations, and case studies, derived from data insights to support advocacy efforts.
• Ensure all reports align with HelpAge’s branding and communication standards for professional presentation.
• Support the preparation of data-driven presentations for board meetings and donor engagements.

Accountability and Feedback

• Manage daily operations of HelpAge’s digital feedback and accountability tools within the DMS and CONNECT systems to ensure robust functionality in the data & accountability officer role.
• Log, track, and facilitate the resolution of feedback and complaints, directing them to relevant teams for timely and transparent responses.
• Maintain detailed records of feedback trends, generating regular reports to inform programme adjustments and organizational learning.
• Collaborate with the MEAL Officer and other teams to integrate system-generated insights into continuous improvement efforts.
• Reinforce HelpAge’s commitment to accountability by maintaining accessible, responsive feedback channels for stakeholders and older people in the data & accountability officer role.
• Champion accountability practices internally among staff and externally with network members to foster a culture of responsiveness and transparency.
• Conduct periodic reviews of feedback mechanisms to assess effectiveness and recommend enhancements for improved stakeholder engagement.
• Ensure confidentiality and ethical handling of sensitive feedback, adhering to protection policies and humanitarian standards.
• Develop feedback response protocols to ensure consistent and equitable handling of complaints.
• Promote awareness of feedback channels among older communities to encourage active participation.

Capacity Strengthening

• Provide technical support and training to staff and network members on data management, reporting standards, and accountability practices in the data & accountability officer role.
• Assist teams and network members in collecting and reporting monitoring data, ensuring alignment with HelpAge’s Global Impact Framework.
• Maintain a central repository of MEAL tools, guidance documents, and learning resources for easy access and utilization across the network.
• Support documentation of case studies, lessons learned, and good practices based on data analysis to enhance organizational knowledge.
• Contribute to learning sessions and working groups, sharing evidence-based insights to promote growth and improvement in the data & accountability officer role.
• Develop tailored training modules on data platforms like Kobo, Excel, and Power BI to build capacity across the network.
• Facilitate peer-to-peer learning exchanges to share best practices in accountability and data management.
• Evaluate training outcomes and refine programs to address evolving capacity needs within the organization.
• Support the onboarding of new staff by providing training on DMS and CONNECT platform usage.
• Promote a culture of data literacy and accountability across all levels of the organization.

Qualifications and Skills

• Experience: Proven experience in data management, MEAL, or information systems within humanitarian or development contexts, essential for the data & accountability officer role.
• Technical Knowledge: Strong proficiency in data platforms such as Power BI, DHIS2, Kobo, and Excel for analysis, reporting, and visualization.
• Data Quality: Demonstrated expertise in data quality assurance and validation processes to ensure reliable and usable datasets.
• Accountability Principles: Familiarity with accountability and community feedback mechanisms in non-profit settings, critical for the data & accountability officer role.
• Organizational Experience: Background working with global or networked civil society organizations, alliances, or consortiums, preferably in humanitarian or development sectors.
• Programming Understanding: Knowledge of humanitarian or development programming, particularly age-inclusive initiatives, to align data efforts with program goals.
• Language Skills: Fluency in English; proficiency in one or more languages relevant to HelpAge’s regions, such as Spanish or Arabic, is essential for effective communication.
• Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree (BA/BSc/HND) in Information Technology, Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Analytical Skills: Strong ability to analyze complex datasets and derive actionable insights for strategic decision-making in the data & accountability officer role.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to train staff, collaborate with teams, and present data insights effectively.
• Problem-Solving: Strong capacity to troubleshoot technical issues and implement efficient solutions for data systems and processes.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to data handling, validation, and reporting to ensure accuracy and reliability.
• Team Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively in multicultural, networked environments, fostering collaboration across global teams.
• Adaptability: Flexibility to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced non-profit setting, critical for the data & accountability officer role.
• Ethical Awareness: Commitment to data protection, confidentiality, and ethical standards, particularly when handling sensitive information.
• Preferred Skills: Experience with additional tools like SQL, Tableau, or R for advanced analytics; familiarity with humanitarian standards such as CHS or Sphere.
• Training Skills: Ability to design and deliver training programs to build data and accountability capacity across diverse teams.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Experience engaging with diverse stakeholders, including older communities, to ensure inclusive feedback processes.
• Technical Troubleshooting: Proficiency in diagnosing and resolving issues with digital platforms and data tools.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding of diverse cultural contexts to tailor data and feedback practices effectively.

Company Culture and Values

HelpAge International cultivates a collaborative and impact-driven work environment centered on equity, inclusion, and the rights of older people. The organization values transparency and accountability, embedding these principles into all operations to ensure programs are responsive and effective. With a global network approach, HelpAge promotes diversity and cross-cultural collaboration, empowering staff to innovate and learn continuously. The culture emphasizes professional development, offering training and opportunities to contribute to evidence-based advocacy. Committed to sustainability and ethical practices, HelpAge International supports a supportive atmosphere where employees can thrive while advancing the mission of age-friendly societies worldwide. As a data & accountability officer, you’ll be part of a team dedicated to meaningful change through data excellence and stakeholder engagement, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and responsiveness.

Benefits

• Competitive Salary: KES 80,000–120,000 monthly (estimated based on market research from PayScale and Glassdoor for mid-level MEAL/data roles in Nairobi’s NGO sector), reflecting the role’s responsibilities and experience requirements.
• Professional Development: Access to training and capacity-building opportunities to enhance data management and MEAL skills.
• Impactful Work: Opportunity to contribute to global advocacy for older people’s rights and inclusion through data-driven strategies.
• Collaborative Environment: A diverse, inclusive workplace that values teamwork, innovation, and ethical practices.
• Flexible Work: Support for work-life balance within a mission-driven non-profit organization.

How to Apply

Apply now for the Data & Accountability Officer position. Submit the following documents to Jobs@helpage.org by 15 September 2025:

• A detailed CV outlining your education, experience, and relevant skills.
• A cover letter explaining your interest in the data & accountability officer role and how your qualifications align with HelpAge International’s mission.
  Clearly state the job title Data & Accountability Officer in the email subject line. Review the full job description before applying. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. HelpAge International is an equal opportunity employer, encouraging applications from all qualified individuals, including those from underrepresented groups. Never pay for any CBT, test, or assessment as part of the recruitment process. When in doubt, contact the organization directly.

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data & accountability officer, Nairobi jobs, NGO jobs Kenya, MEAL positions 2025, data management careers

Extended Content for Depth and Context

The data & accountability officer role at HelpAge International is a cornerstone position designed to enhance the organization’s ability to deliver impactful programs through robust data management and accountability practices. As a data & accountability officer, you will oversee critical digital platforms like the DMS and CONNECT, ensuring data quality, generating actionable insights, and fostering transparent feedback mechanisms that empower older people and stakeholders. This role is ideal for professionals passionate about leveraging data to drive social impact in humanitarian and development contexts, particularly within a global non-profit network focused on age-inclusive programming.

Why Choose This Data & Accountability Officer Role?

The data & accountability officer position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a global mission centered on the rights and well-being of older populations. By managing data systems and accountability tools, you’ll ensure programs are effective, transparent, and responsive to community needs. HelpAge International provides a supportive environment for professional growth, where your technical expertise in MEAL and information systems will drive evidence-based advocacy and program improvements. This role is perfect for Nairobi-based professionals seeking to make a meaningful impact in the non-profit sector while advancing their careers in data governance.

The Role in Non-Profit Data Management

In non-profit organizations like HelpAge International, the data & accountability officer plays a critical role in transforming raw data into actionable insights that inform strategy, advocacy, and program delivery. You’ll manage digital platforms, validate datasets, and create visualizations that support organizational reports and donor requirements. By overseeing feedback mechanisms, you’ll ensure that the voices of older people and other stakeholders are heard and acted upon, fostering accountability and trust. This data & accountability officer role bridges technical expertise with ethical practices, making it essential for delivering age-inclusive programs that address the unique needs of older populations.

Data Systems Management in Practice

As a data & accountability officer, you’ll be responsible for administering the DMS and CONNECT platforms, ensuring they support HelpAge’s global data needs. This involves coordinating data submissions from programme teams across multiple regions, working closely with IT and operations to maintain system reliability. You’ll troubleshoot technical issues, propose enhancements, and ensure compliance with data protection standards like GDPR. By documenting system configurations and creating user guides, you’ll facilitate smooth onboarding and usage for staff and network members, ensuring a robust data ecosystem that supports program monitoring and evaluation.

Ensuring High-Quality Data

Leading data collection cycles is a core responsibility of the data & accountability officer. You’ll collaborate with programme teams to gather reliable data, conducting validation and cleaning to maintain integrity. Aligning with HelpAge’s Global Impact Framework, you’ll ensure data supports strategic objectives, performing regular audits to identify and resolve discrepancies. By developing standardized tools and training field teams on best practices, you’ll enhance data quality and consistency, enabling accurate reporting and informed decision-making.

Driving Impactful Reporting and Visualisation

Creating compelling reports and visualizations is a key aspect of the data & accountability officer role. Using tools like Power BI, you’ll collate data for outputs like the Annual Report, designing dashboards that highlight programme achievements and trends. Supporting the Global Impact Advisor, you’ll analyze performance metrics, delivering actionable recommendations to improve program outcomes. By automating reporting processes and refining templates, you’ll ensure insights are accessible to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, enhancing HelpAge’s advocacy efforts.

Strengthening Accountability Mechanisms

Managing digital feedback tools is critical for fostering accountability in the data & accountability officer role. You’ll oversee the DMS and CONNECT systems, ensuring complaints are logged, tracked, and resolved promptly by relevant teams. By maintaining records of feedback trends and generating reports, you’ll provide insights that drive programme improvements. Championing accessible feedback channels, particularly for older people, you’ll reinforce HelpAge’s commitment to transparency and responsiveness, aligning with humanitarian accountability standards.

Building Capacity Across the Network

The data & accountability officer plays a vital role in building data and accountability capacity across HelpAge’s global network. By providing technical training on platforms like Kobo and Excel, you’ll empower staff and network members to collect and report data effectively. Maintaining a repository of MEAL tools and documenting lessons learned, you’ll support organizational learning through case studies and working groups. Facilitating peer-to-peer exchanges and evaluating training outcomes will ensure continuous improvement in data practices.

A Day in the Life

A typical day as a data & accountability officer is dynamic and impactful. You might start by validating data submissions in the DMS, followed by creating a Power BI dashboard for a programme review. Next, you could train network members on Kobo, troubleshoot a platform issue, or analyze feedback trends for a quarterly report. Collaborating with global teams, you’ll contribute to learning sessions, ensuring data drives programme adjustments. Your work will balance technical tasks with stakeholder engagement, making each day varied and rewarding.

Why Nairobi Is Ideal for This Role

Nairobi is a thriving hub for NGOs and humanitarian organizations, making it an ideal location for the data & accountability officer role. As a key base for HelpAge International, Nairobi offers access to diverse networks, resources, and infrastructure, facilitating coordination with global teams. The city’s vibrant ecosystem supports data-driven humanitarian work, providing an environment where you can drive impact and collaborate effectively.

Preparing for Success

To succeed as a data & accountability officer, you’ll need technical expertise in data platforms, a strong ethical focus, and a collaborative mindset. Proficiency in tools like Power BI, DHIS2, and Kobo, combined with knowledge of accountability principles, is essential. Staying updated on humanitarian standards and aligning with HelpAge’s mission will ensure your work drives meaningful change. Attention to detail, adaptability, and effective communication will help you excel in this fast-paced role.

The Broader Impact

As a data & accountability officer, your work will strengthen HelpAge International’s ability to advocate for older people’s rights, using data to create equitable, impactful programs. By fostering transparency and learning, you’ll contribute to sustainable development and community empowerment, ensuring older populations are heard and supported. Your efforts will have a lasting impact on global advocacy and programme effectiveness.

Additional Responsibilities for Comprehensive Impact

• Monitor emerging trends in data management and MEAL practices to keep HelpAge at the forefront of non-profit innovation.
• Support donor reporting by preparing data-driven narratives that highlight programme impact and accountability.
• Engage with older communities to ensure feedback mechanisms are inclusive and accessible, reflecting HelpAge’s commitment to equity.
• Collaborate with external partners, such as other NGOs or consortiums, to share data practices and enhance network-wide learning.
• Develop contingency plans for data system disruptions to ensure continuity of operations.
• Review global data policies and recommend updates to align with best practices in the data & accountability officer role.
• Support advocacy campaigns by providing data insights that highlight the needs and contributions of older people.
• Ensure all data activities comply with HelpAge’s ethical guidelines and donor requirements.
• Facilitate cross-regional data sharing to enhance collaboration and consistency across the network.
• Contribute to strategic planning by providing data-driven recommendations for programme expansion.

Career Growth Opportunities

The data & accountability officer role offers significant opportunities for professional development within HelpAge International. By mastering data platforms and accountability practices, you’ll build skills that are highly valued in the non-profit sector. The organization’s focus on training and capacity building provides access to mentorship, workshops, and career advancement, positioning you for future leadership roles in MEAL or data governance.

The Importance of Accountability in Non-Profits

Accountability is a cornerstone of HelpAge International’s mission, and the data & accountability officer ensures this principle is embedded in all operations. By managing feedback tools and promoting transparent channels, you’ll empower stakeholders, particularly older people, to engage with programs. This role strengthens trust, enhances programme quality, and aligns with humanitarian standards like the Core Humanitarian Standard (CHS).

Technical Expertise in Action

As a data & accountability officer, your technical skills will be critical to success. Proficiency in Power BI for visualization, DHIS2 for health data management, and Kobo for field data collection will enable you to deliver high-quality outputs. Knowledge of Excel for advanced analysis and familiarity with SQL or R for deeper insights will enhance your ability to support complex reporting needs. Your ability to troubleshoot platforms and train others will ensure the network remains data-driven and agile.

Ethical Data Practices

Ethical data handling is paramount in the data & accountability officer role, particularly when working with vulnerable populations. You’ll ensure confidentiality, protect sensitive information, and adhere to global standards like GDPR. By championing ethical practices, you’ll build trust with stakeholders and reinforce HelpAge’s commitment to integrity.

Collaboration Across the Global Network

Working with a global network requires the data & accountability officer to collaborate across cultures and regions. You’ll engage with programme teams in Africa, Asia, and beyond, ensuring data consistency and sharing best practices. Your ability to communicate effectively in English, with additional proficiency in Spanish or Arabic, will facilitate seamless coordination and stakeholder engagement.

Final Thoughts

The data & accountability officer role at HelpAge International is a unique opportunity to leverage data for social impact, driving accountability and transparency in a global network dedicated to older people’s rights. With a collaborative team, opportunities for professional growth, and a mission-driven environment, this role is ideal for Nairobi-based professionals passionate about MEAL and data governance. Apply today to join HelpAge International and contribute to transformative change for older populations worldwide.

Salary Estimate: KES 80,000–120,000 monthly, estimated based on market research from reputable sources PayScale (https://www.payscale.com) and Glassdoor (https://www.glassdoor.com) for mid-level MEAL/data roles in Nairobi’s NGO sector, reflecting the role’s responsibilities and experience requirements.