Associate, Advice for Small Businesses Programme

Job Posting Organization:
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is an international financial institution 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 Associate position within the EBRD’s Advice for Small Businesses Programme is a pivotal role that involves leading and contributing to various activities aimed at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The Associate will work under the guidance of the Principal Manager, engaging in business development, project execution, and monitoring of advisory projects. This role requires a proactive approach to identifying the business needs of high-growth potential clients and providing them with tailored advice and support to enhance their investment readiness. The Associate will also be responsible for designing and delivering non-project initiatives that align with EBRD’s strategic priorities, collaborating closely with partner banks and other stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of the programme.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Associate will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities including: leading the delivery of advisory services under the Advice for Small Businesses Programme; ensuring compliance with the Bank’s policies and procedures; conducting due diligence and stakeholder outreach; structuring impactful advisory support for SMEs; engaging with external partners to identify development needs; monitoring portfolio performance; preparing internal and donor reports; and contributing to the development of innovative financial and non-financial products for SMEs. The Associate will also be involved in business development activities to generate a pipeline of high-quality clients and advisory projects, ensuring alignment with EBRD’s strategic priorities.

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 statements, conduct analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">financial analysis, and understand local accounting principles is essential. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate strong project management skills, effective communication abilities, and the capacity to manage relationships with various stakeholders. Proficiency in writing project proposals and reports is desirable, as is fluency in English and the local language.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Business, Economics, or Finance is required. Advanced degrees or certifications in related areas may be advantageous but are not mandatory. Candidates should have a solid understanding of business advisory services and the local business environment.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of relevant professional experience is required, ideally gained in commercial management consultancy, development institutions, or financial institutions. Candidates should have a good understanding of EBRD’s strategic SME priority areas, such as green economy, economic inclusion, and digitalisation, along with experience in these fields.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and verbal. Proficiency in the local language of Iraq is also essential to effectively communicate with clients and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term contract for a duration of two years. The role is based in Baghdad, Iraq, and may require travel within the country and internationally. The EBRD promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their background. The organization offers a hybrid workplace model, competitive benefits, and prioritizes employee wellbeing.