Local Expert for SMEs Financing Strategy

Job Posting Organization:
The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek (POiB) was established to support the Ministry of Economy and Commerce (MoEC) in developing the National Strategy for Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Development for the years 2026 to 203

• The organization aims to foster sustainable growth and competitiveness of SMEs in Kyrgyzstan. The POiB collaborates with various donors, including UNDP and EDB, to ensure that the strategy reflects best global practices while being tailored to the local economic context. The office operates with a mission to enhance the economic environment in Kyrgyzstan, focusing on inclusivity and sustainability in SME financing. The OSCE has a presence in multiple countries, promoting peace, democracy, and stability, and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to these goals.

Job Overview:
The position of Local Expert for SMEs Financing Strategy is crucial for the successful development of the National Strategy for Small and Medium Enterprises 2026 – 203

• The expert will provide analytical and advisory support to the MoEC, focusing on assessing current financial instruments and designing a unified strategy for SME financing. This role requires a comprehensive understanding of the financial landscape in Kyrgyzstan, including public and private financing mechanisms, and the ability to integrate sustainability and inclusiveness into the strategy. The expert will conduct field missions, engage with stakeholders, and develop recommendations that will guide the MoEC in creating a robust financing system for SMEs. The position is expected to contribute significantly to the overall goal of enhancing the competitiveness of SMEs in the region, ensuring that the strategy is not only effective but also reflective of the needs of various stakeholders, including women entrepreneurs and youth-led enterprises.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The successful candidate will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: conducting a thorough review of existing SMEs financing instruments and support measures in Kyrgyzstan; engaging in consultations with government agencies, financial institutions, business associations, and development partners; conducting at least two regional field missions to gather insights and data; designing a 'smart financing' architecture that integrates public and private financial resources; developing recommendations for an auction-based interest rate subsidy system to enhance competition among banks; proposing alternative financing instruments such as leasing, factoring, and crowdfunding; preparing proposals for integrating financial literacy and business capacity-building programs; ensuring that sustainable and green financing principles are incorporated into public support for SME development; compiling a final report with actionable recommendations for the National Strategy; and preparing presentations for stakeholders to communicate project solutions and proposals effectively.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in economics, finance, or business administration, with an advanced degree preferred. A minimum of 7 years of professional experience in the financial sector and public administration is required, including senior executive roles in banking, microfinance, and financial regulation. Extensive expertise in the Kyrgyz Republic's financial market, lending, and guarantee mechanisms is essential. Proven experience in analyzing program efficiency and designing proposals for improvements is necessary. Strong analytical, leadership, and coordination skills are required, along with experience in stakeholder engagement at both national and international levels. Candidates must demonstrate gender awareness and sensitivity, with the ability to integrate a gender perspective into tasks and activities.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in economics, finance, or business administration. An advanced degree is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and understanding of complex financial systems and strategies. This educational foundation is critical for the candidate to effectively analyze and develop financial instruments and support measures for SMEs in Kyrgyzstan.

Experience:
The position requires at least 7 years of professional experience in the financial sector and public administration. This experience should include senior executive roles in banking, microfinance, and financial regulation, demonstrating a deep understanding of the financial landscape and the ability to navigate complex regulatory environments. Candidates should have a proven track record of analyzing program efficiency and designing proposals for improvements, showcasing their capability to contribute meaningfully to the development of the SMEs financing strategy.

Languages:
Fluency in Russian and Kyrgyz is mandatory, as these languages are essential for effective communication with local stakeholders. Advanced proficiency in English is also required, particularly for reviewing international practices and documentation. This multilingual capability is crucial for the expert to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders and to ensure that the strategy aligns with global best practices while being tailored to the local context.

Additional Notes:
The position is offered under a Special Service Agreement (SSA) and is classified as a consultant role. The contract duration is for one month, with the possibility of extension based on project needs and performance. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce and encourages qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The remuneration package will be based on the selected consultant's qualifications and experience, in accordance with OSCE established rates. The OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application process, ensuring a fair and transparent recruitment process.