Financial Inclusion Technical Lead

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded on the belief that a better world is possible. Established to provide assistance in disaster and hardship, 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 focuses on various sectors, including economic development, health, and education, and aims to empower individuals and communities to achieve sustainable change.

Job Overview:
The Financial Inclusion Technical Lead will play a crucial role in the start-up of the FCDO-Funded ‘Scaling Climate-Smart Agribusiness Finance’ (SCAFIN) programme in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This position is integral to increasing access to finance for climate-smart agribusinesses in specific provinces, including Kongo Central, Kwilu, Mai-Ndombe, and Kwango. The lead will provide technical assistance and transaction advisory support to local financial institutions, impact funds, and other investors, leveraging grants and guarantees to mobilize additional financing. The role involves developing a pipeline of investment-ready businesses and providing technical assistance to help these businesses attract and utilize financing effectively. The Financial Inclusion Technical Lead will work closely with various stakeholders, including government actors and financial institutions, to ensure alignment with program objectives and facilitate investments into agribusinesses.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Financial Inclusion Technical Lead will be responsible for validating and further developing a market study on agribusiness financing, analyzing the demand for financing from agribusinesses, and identifying key financial institutions and stakeholders involved in providing financing. The lead will also make recommendations on priority value chains and financing needs, support partnership creation with financial institutions, and identify the technical assistance needs of potential partners. Additionally, the lead will engage with stakeholders to share program objectives, formalize partnerships, and assist in hiring and onboarding key program staff. The consultant will create a detailed implementation plan and budget utilization plan for the first year of the program, ensuring all activities align with the overall goals of the SCAFIN programme.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 10 years of experience working in agricultural finance and value chains in Sub-Saharan Africa, with a strong preference for familiarity with the DRC. Experience working with financial institutions and investors to provide inclusive finance to underserved markets is essential. Candidates should have a proven track record in designing and implementing blended finance mechanisms, conducting market studies, and providing consultancy services in this area. Strong analytical, verbal, and written communication skills are required, along with familiarity with major institutional donors in the sector.

Educational Background:
A relevant degree in finance, economics, agricultural science, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or certifications in finance or development studies would be advantageous, as they demonstrate a higher level of expertise and commitment to the field.

Experience:
The position requires extensive experience in agricultural finance, particularly in the context of Sub-Saharan Africa. Candidates should have a strong background in working with financial institutions and understanding the dynamics of agribusiness financing. Experience in managing programs for organizations like Mercy Corps is highly desirable, as it indicates familiarity with organizational structures and processes.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and French is mandatory for this position, as effective communication with diverse stakeholders is crucial. Knowledge of additional local languages would be considered an asset, enhancing the ability to engage with local communities and partners.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is expected to be until 31 March 2026, with a total expected level of effort of 30 days. The work will be conducted both on-site in DRC and remotely, with an approximate split of 75% on-site and 25% remote. The consultant will report to the SCAFIN Start-up Team Lead and will collaborate closely with the Deputy Regional Director and Senior Advisor for Digital and Financial Inclusion. The role is designed to be full-time, and the organization is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in its hiring practices.