Team Leader - Green Growth Programme Component 3

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded on the belief that a better world is possible. Established in 1979, Mercy Corps operates in over 40 countries worldwide, partnering with communities to implement bold solutions that help people overcome adversity and build stronger communities from within. The organization has a significant presence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) since August 2007, employing more than 300 national and expatriate staff. Mercy Corps has reached 2.12 million people in various provinces of DRC, providing integrated programs that enhance access to improved water, sanitation, and hygiene services, promote economic development, and foster peace and good governance.

Job Overview:
The Team Leader for the Green Growth Programme Component 3 will provide strategic leadership and overall management of the program, ensuring timely and effective delivery of all targets and outputs. This role involves overseeing program staff, maintaining compliance with Mercy Corps and FCDO requirements, and serving as the main liaison with FCDO, government counterparts, partners, and other stakeholders. The Team Leader will ensure coordinated implementation, strong partner collaboration, and integration of technical inputs in line with the program’s Theory of Change. The position requires a proactive approach to drive innovation, identify new opportunities, and enhance inclusive finance for agribusinesses and rural enterprises in the DRC.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Team Leader will be responsible for leading the articulation and delivery of a clear strategic vision for Component 3, ensuring alignment with the overall program objectives. They will oversee the high-quality implementation of the program, translating strategy into actionable work plans and budgets. The role includes managing partnerships with financial institutions, overseeing the establishment of loan guarantees, and ensuring compliance with operational standards. The Team Leader will also provide strong leadership to the program team, promote a culture of accountability and collaboration, and ensure effective financial management and compliance with donor regulations. Additionally, they will represent the program in various coordination forums and foster alignment with related donor and government initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree (MA/MSc or equivalent) in finance, economics, business administration, or a related field relevant to sustainable finance or private-sector development. A minimum of 10 years of professional experience in financial sector development, blended finance, or agribusiness finance is required, along with experience working with financial institutions and investors to provide inclusive finance. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of blended finance instruments and have at least five years in a senior leadership role overseeing complex programs. Proven strategic leadership experience and extensive networks within the African financial sector are essential, as well as excellent communication skills in English and fluency in French.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree (MA/MSc or equivalent) in finance, economics, business administration, development economics, or a related field is required for this position. The educational background should be relevant to sustainable finance, investment, or private-sector development, ensuring that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to lead the program effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of professional experience in financial sector development, blended finance, impact investment, or agribusiness finance. Candidates should have experience structuring or managing innovative financial products in emerging markets, as well as experience working with financial institutions and other investors to provide inclusive finance to underserved markets. At least five years in a senior leadership or advisory role overseeing complex, multi-stakeholder programs is essential, ideally involving investment facilitation or green finance.

Languages:
Fluency in French is required, and excellent verbal and written communication skills in English are mandatory. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the region may be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Kinshasa, DRC, with housing provided under housing allowance regulations. The role requires regular travel to various locations within Kongo Central, Kwilu, Mai-Ndombe, and Kwango, which may include unstable areas with strict security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security rules. Living conditions in field locations are basic but secure, and while conditions in much of the country are improving, there are still pockets of violence and insecurity. Mercy Corps offers a culture of learning and continuous improvement, encouraging team members to dedicate time to personal and professional growth. The organization is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, striving to create a respectful and safe work environment for all team members.