Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM), established in 1951, is a leading intergovernmental organization that provides services and advice concerning migration to governments and migrants alike. IOM has been operational in Kazakhstan since 1997, focusing on promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. The organization collaborates with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners to address migration issues and emerging trends in Central Asia, particularly in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. IOM's mission in Kazakhstan plays a crucial role in coordinating migration governance and project development in the region, ensuring that migration policies align with sub-regional strategies and consultative processes.

Job Overview:
The Consultant position is integral to the IOM's regional project aimed at improving migration governance and access to services for displaced Afghans in Pakistan and Central Asia. The role involves identifying local business angel clubs, startup hubs, incubators, and private investors to support Afghan nationals and local communities. The Consultant will be responsible for preparing beneficiaries for investment opportunities, including helping them develop pitch presentations and reviewing their business models. The position requires strong networking and communication skills to facilitate introductions and organize pitch events, ensuring that beneficiaries are well-prepared to engage with potential investors. The Consultant will also be expected to produce interim and final reports detailing the activities conducted, the connections made, and recommendations for future support.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Consultant will perform a variety of tasks under this contract, including:

• By the end of April 2026, identify local business angel clubs, startup hubs, incubators, accelerators, and private investors. Collect basic information on their requirements, criteria, and processes. Assist beneficiaries in preparing individual pitch presentations, reviewing their business models, financials, and growth potential. Guide beneficiaries in enhancing their products or services to meet investor expectations, culminating in an interim report on the activity.
• By the end of June 2026, organize small pitch days, meet-ups, or closed sessions with business angels. Facilitate introductions to angel clubs, startup platforms, or investor networks. Provide guidance to beneficiaries during meetings and follow-up steps, resulting in an event summary, a list of connections made, an overview of activities and meetings organized, beneficiaries’ progress and readiness level, and a final report with recommendations for future support.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in economics, social sciences, marketing, business administration, sustainable development, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of five years of relevant professional experience is required. The ideal candidate should have experience working with startups, business angels, or investment communities, as well as experience in mentoring or training small businesses. A good knowledge of the local investment/startup ecosystem in Kazakhstan is essential, along with strong networking and communication skills.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as economics, social sciences, marketing, business administration, or sustainable development. This foundational education is complemented by five years of professional experience in related areas, ensuring that candidates have both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have substantial experience, specifically five years of relevant professional experience. This experience should include working with startups, business angels, or investment communities, as well as mentoring or training small businesses. A strong understanding of the local investment and startup ecosystem in Kazakhstan is crucial for success in this role.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, along with knowledge of Kazakh and Russian. Familiarity with Dari is considered a helpful asset. The selection process will specifically evaluate candidates' proficiency in these languages, which may include written and/or oral assessments to ensure effective communication within the organization and with stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy position may involve travel, and candidates should be aware that any offer made is subject to funding confirmation. Appointment will also depend on certification of medical fitness, verification of residency, visa, and necessary authorizations by the concerned government, where applicable. IOM provides coverage against occupational accidents and illnesses under the Compensation Plan for the duration of the consultancy, but does not offer evacuation or medical insurance for non-occupational accidents or illnesses. Consultants are responsible for their own medical insurance for such cases and must provide proof of coverage before commencing work. IOM maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct incompatible with its aims and objectives, including discrimination and harassment. Furthermore, IOM does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through its online recruitment system.