Principal Manager (PM)

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

• Its mission is to foster the transition towards open market-oriented economies and promote private and entrepreneurial initiative in countries from Central Europe to Central Asia. The EBRD operates in over 30 countries and has a workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. The organization focuses on various sectors, including banking, infrastructure, and energy, and aims to support sustainable development and economic growth in the regions it serves.

Job Overview:
The Principal Manager (PM) plays a crucial role in delivering the Advice for Small Businesses (ASB) activities within Benin. This position involves developing comprehensive annual business plans and leading a local team to implement these plans in alignment with the EBRD's strategic priorities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the country. The PM is responsible for overseeing the entire project lifecycle, from conception to evaluation, ensuring that advisory activities are in line with EBRD investment priorities. The role requires the PM to manage a diverse project portfolio, drive strategic initiatives such as non-financial services for financial industry counterparts, and maintain constructive relationships with various stakeholders, including the local business community and government entities. The PM is also expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity and ethical conduct, serving as a role model for the team.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Principal Manager will lead the delivery of instruments and activities under the ASB Programme, ensuring alignment with the Bank's strategic priorities. Key responsibilities include developing and overseeing the implementation of the ASB annual operational plan, conceptualizing business development activities, and engaging with external stakeholders to identify SME development needs. The PM will monitor the advisory and banking portfolio, ensuring synergy between them, and will be responsible for recruiting, training, and developing staff. Additionally, the PM will oversee the management of donor-funded budgets, ensuring transparency and accountability in the use of funds. The role also involves fostering productive relationships within the organization and championing the Bank's behavioral competencies and corporate behaviors.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a BA or MA from a recognized program in international development, economics, or business, along with equivalent work experience. Strong people management skills, including recruitment and mentoring, are essential. Candidates should demonstrate strong business and financial analytical skills, effective communication and negotiation abilities, and the capacity to manage relationships with various stakeholders. Diplomatic skills are necessary for maintaining relationships with local stakeholders, and candidates should have strong project management and organizational skills. Fluency in English and local languages is mandatory, along with strong writing skills in both languages. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and PowerPoint, is required.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's or master's degree in international development, economics, business, or a related field is required. Candidates should have a solid understanding of local accounting principles and practices, as well as experience in analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">financial analysis. Additional qualifications in project management or related areas would be advantageous.

Experience:
Candidates should have extensive relevant professional experience, ideally from commercial management consultancy, corporates, banks, or donor organizations. Experience in the financial industry, particularly in bank lending, private equity, or early-stage investing, is strongly desirable. Proven leadership skills and experience in managing teams, including performance management, are essential. Familiarity with EBRD's strategic SME priority areas, such as green economy and digitalization, is also important.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, along with proficiency in local languages, both written and verbal. Strong writing skills in English and local languages are essential, particularly in the context of proposal writing and report generation.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a fixed-term contract lasting three years. The EBRD promotes a flexible working environment, expecting employees to attend the office 50% of their working time. The organization values diversity and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of their background. Due to the high volume of applications, detailed feedback will not be provided to candidates who are not shortlisted.