Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is an international financial institution founded in 199

• Its mission is to promote the transition to open market-oriented economies and to foster private and entrepreneurial initiative in countries from Central Europe to Central Asia. The EBRD operates in over 30 countries and employs approximately 2,000 staff members. The organization is committed to investing in projects that create jobs, promote sustainable development, and enhance the quality of life in the regions it serves.

Job Overview:
The Associate position is a pivotal role within the EBRD’s Advice for Small Businesses Programme. Under the guidance of the Principal Manager, the Associate will lead and contribute to various activities including the initiation, structuring, execution, implementation, monitoring, and completion of advisory projects. This role requires proactive engagement in business development and the delivery of compliant projects, ensuring alignment with the strategic directions of the SME Finance and Development group. The Associate will work closely with high-growth potential clients to assess their business needs and provide tailored advice and financing solutions to prepare them for investment readiness. Additionally, the Associate will design and deliver non-project initiatives that support EBRD’s strategic priorities, collaborating with partner banks and other stakeholders to enhance the impact of the programme.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Associate will be responsible for leading the delivery of instruments and activities under the Advice for Small Businesses Programme. This includes performing all activities in alignment with the Bank’s policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with donor requirements and internal control standards. Key responsibilities include: origination and conception of advisory activities, implementation and monitoring of projects, and evaluation of outcomes. The Associate will liaise with banking colleagues to identify suitable advisory support for high-growth SMEs, analyze financials and growth prospects, and structure impactful advisory support. The role also involves initiating business development efforts, generating a pipeline of high-quality clients, and engaging with external stakeholders to explore SME development needs. The Associate will monitor portfolio companies’ performance, contribute to banking project approval documents, and prepare internal and donor reports to inform stakeholders about progress and funding utilization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Business, Economics, Finance, or a related field, along with strong business and financial analytical skills. The ability to interpret financial accounts and conduct thorough analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">financial analysis is essential. Candidates should demonstrate strong project management and organizational skills, as well as effective communication, presentation, and negotiation abilities. Experience in writing advisory project proposals and reports is desirable. Fluency in English, both written and verbal, is mandatory, along with fluency in the local language of operations. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and PowerPoint, is required, and candidates should be able to quickly learn new systems.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in Business, Economics, Finance, or a related field is required. This educational background provides the foundational knowledge necessary for understanding financial principles, business operations, and economic factors that influence small businesses.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of relevant professional experience is required, preferably in commercial management consultancy, development institutions, or financial institutions such as banks. Candidates should have a good understanding of EBRD’s strategic SME priority areas, including green economy, economic inclusion, sustainable supply chains, and digitalization. Experience in business advisory services and knowledge of the local business environment and consultancy market is essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and verbal. Additionally, fluency in the local language of operations is essential for effective communication with clients and stakeholders. Knowledge of other languages relevant to the region may be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term contract lasting for two years. The role is based in Baghdad, Iraq, and may require travel within the country and internationally. The EBRD promotes a hybrid workplace that offers flexibility and prioritizes employee wellbeing, providing a comprehensive suite of competitive benefits. The organization values diversity and encourages all qualified candidates to apply, regardless of their background.