Associate Manager of the SME F&D Grants Unit

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

• The EBRD's mission is to foster the transition towards open market-oriented economies and to promote private and entrepreneurial initiative in the countries where it invests. The organization operates in over 30 countries across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, employing a diverse workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. The EBRD is committed to sustainable development and aims to support projects that enhance the economic and social well-being of the regions it serves.

Job Overview:
The Associate Manager of the SME F&D Grants Unit plays a crucial role in the implementation of Technical Co-operation, Guarantees, and Co-Investment grants mobilized for the SME Finance & Development Business Group (SME F&D). This position is responsible for overseeing various facilities, programs, and products that the SME F&D may deploy, particularly those involving complex blended finance and advisory programs. The Associate Manager will contribute to fundraising efforts, ensure the integrity and consistency of program implementation and reporting, and facilitate the adoption of lessons learned. Reporting to the Associate Director/Principal Manager, the Associate Manager will also manage a team of analysts and senior officers, providing guidance and support while troubleshooting issues as necessary. This role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including management, staff, donors, and consultants, to maximize the impact of grants in SME F&D operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Associate Manager will be responsible for several key accountabilities, including:

• Supporting the donor fundraising process and managing grants within the SME F&D Grants Unit's mandate. This includes contributing to concept papers, communications, presentations, and other fundraising documents, as well as attending donor meetings.
• Leading or supporting the Grant Review process, preparing TCRS or contributing to aggregated result reporting, and creating bespoke donor progress updates and reports for presentation at Steering and Monitoring Committee Meetings.
• Monitoring the deployment of programs, particularly regarding the availability of Technical Cooperation (TC) and Non-Technical Cooperation (Non-TC) funds.
• Developing improved internal monitoring and management systems, including KPI implementation across instruments, in line with Project Monarch developments.
• Responding to queries related to programs concerning donor funding and commenting on investment documentation related to the programs.
• Overseeing the development of products and contributing to their structuring, including participating in the origination, design, and development of donor-funded programs supporting the Small Business Initiative.
• Providing guidance on TC and Non-TC (guarantees & incentives) and overseeing the preparation and implementation of programs and projects.
• Managing and supporting the work of analysts and senior officers, ensuring quality and addressing any issues that arise.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess relevant and substantive experience in an international financial institution or donor organization, particularly in grant fundraising, product structuring, implementation, and monitoring. Expertise in the financial sector, including experience working with banks or non-bank financial institutions, as well as knowledge of financial sector infrastructure or legal and regulatory frameworks, is essential. A good relevant undergraduate degree from a leading university is required, with a preference for a Master's degree in business administration, project management, or international development. Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English are mandatory, and proficiency in an additional language of EBRD Countries of Operations is advantageous. Candidates should also demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, advanced proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint, familiarity with SAP and Tableau, and the ability to handle complex matters while finding pragmatic solutions.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a good relevant undergraduate degree from a reputable university, with a preference for candidates holding a Master's degree in business administration, project management, or international development. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of the financial sector and the specific requirements of the SME F&D Grants Unit.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have substantial experience in an international financial institution or donor organization, particularly in areas related to grant fundraising, product structuring, implementation, and monitoring. This experience should ideally include working within the financial sector and engaging with banks or non-bank financial institutions, as well as familiarity with the legal and regulatory frameworks that govern these entities.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, with excellent written and verbal communication skills required. Additionally, having working proficiency in another language relevant to the EBRD Countries of Operations is considered an advantage, as it can enhance communication with diverse stakeholders and facilitate engagement in various regions.

Additional Notes:
This position is a short-term contract with a duration of 12 months. The role is based in London, United Kingdom, and offers a unique opportunity to work within a pioneering and diverse international organization. The EBRD promotes a hybrid workplace that emphasizes flexibility, trust, and connectedness, and is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that values diversity. The organization provides a comprehensive suite of competitive benefits and prioritizes employee well-being.