Ali Najm Al-Rashede is a results-driven Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning (MREL) specialist with over 11 years of experience across humanitarian, development, and governance sectors in Iraq and the MENA region. He has a strong track record in designing and implementing results-based management systems, developing MEL frameworks, and supporting evidence-based decision-making for complex, multi-stakeholder programs.

Throughout his career, Ali has worked with leading international organizations, including Chemonics International (USAID-funded programs) and The Global Strategy Network (TGSN), where he contributed to program design, implementation, and evaluation at both field and strategic levels. His expertise spans the full project cycle, including baseline assessments, midline and endline evaluations, and the development of tools for qualitative and quantitative data collection.

Ali has extensive experience in developing Theory of Change models, results frameworks, and key performance indicators (KPIs), ensuring alignment with donor requirements such as USAID, FCDO, and the European Union. He has also played a critical role in proposal development, contributing to context analysis, risk assessment, and the integration of MEL components into large-scale programs focused on governance, justice reform, and economic development.

Currently serving as MREL Lead with TGSN, Ali leads the design and institutionalization of national-level MREL systems supporting Countering Violent Extremism (CVE) initiatives and institutional reform in Iraq. He works closely with government entities to strengthen performance tracking, impact measurement, and evidence-based planning. His role includes developing analytical tools, dashboards, and high-level reporting systems to inform decision-making at senior levels.

In addition to his technical expertise, Ali has demonstrated strong leadership in capacity building, having trained field teams, government stakeholders, and partner organizations on MEL methodologies, data collection, and reporting practices. He also integrates Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) principles into program design and implementation, ensuring inclusive and equitable outcomes.

Ali holds a Master’s degree in Leadership and Team Building and a Bachelor’s degree in Law, providing him with a strong foundation in organizational leadership and governance. He also serves as Chairman of the Board for the Innovation for Change (I4C) MENA network, contributing to strategic direction, partnership development, and resource mobilization.

With a combination of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and field experience, Ali brings a comprehensive and adaptive approach to development programming, with a strong commitment to achieving sustainable impact and strengthening institutional effectiveness.