Richard Ponsford

Richard Ponsford is an experienced Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) professional currently serving as MEL Manager for Research and Project M&E at Better Cotton since July 2023, where responsibilities include managing a team and overseeing impactful research initiatives. Previously, Richard held various roles, including MEL Manager for the Growth and Innovation Fund at Better Cotton and as an independent consultant supporting social purpose organizations. Richard's extensive background includes positions such as Lead Social Impact Analyst and Trainer at ImpactMapper, Senior Consultant roles at INTRAC and IMC Worldwide, and Programme Performance Advisor at Christian Aid, where expertise in MEL system development, evaluations, and capacity building has been demonstrated across multiple international organizations. Richard holds a Master's Degree in International Development: Development Management from Manchester University and a Bachelor's Degree in Economics and Politics from the University of Leeds.