Finance Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek (POiB) is dedicated to supporting socio-economic development in Kyrgyzstan. Established to facilitate various projects, the office focuses on enhancing the capabilities of local entrepreneurs and fostering economic connectivity. The POiB operates in multiple regions of Kyrgyzstan, including Batken, Issyk-Kul, Jalal-Abad, Osh, and Talas, and is involved in initiatives aimed at empowering women economically. The organization emphasizes collaboration with local entities to ensure sustainable growth and development in the region.

Job Overview:
The Finance Consultant position is designed to provide essential financial advisory services to local entrepreneurs in the Naryn region of Kyrgyzstan. This role involves working closely with Entrepreneurship Support Centres (ESCs) and the Joint Investment Agency (JIA) Naryn to assist entrepreneurs in various financial aspects, including accounting processes, financial statement preparation, budgeting, and cash-flow management. The consultant will also play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with national tax legislation, preparing tax reports, and advising on tax optimization strategies. Additionally, the consultant will support entrepreneurs in drafting project proposals and attracting investments, while also focusing on women's economic empowerment through targeted coaching and workshops. The ultimate goal is to enhance the financial literacy and business acumen of local entrepreneurs, particularly women, to foster sustainable economic growth in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Consultant will be responsible for a range of duties, including but not limited to: developing a comprehensive action plan for the consultancy period; providing consultancy services to entrepreneurs in financial planning, accounting, taxation, and investment issues; coordinating with the ESC PR manager to showcase success stories of consultancy services; conducting at least three training sessions or workshops on finance-related topics; assisting in the implementation of the Women’s Economic Empowerment Component (WEEC) by providing training and mentorship to women beneficiaries; and delivering various reports and documentation as required. The consultant will also be expected to maintain a high level of communication with stakeholders and ensure that all deliverables are met within specified timelines.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in finance, accounting, economics, business management, project management, or a related field, with a Master’s degree considered an advantage. A minimum of five years of professional experience in accounting, financial management, or financial consulting is required, preferably with small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Strong knowledge of national accounting standards and tax legislation applicable to SMEs is essential, along with proven analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. The ability to communicate complex financial information clearly to non-financial stakeholders is crucial. Proficiency in relevant accounting software and project management tools is also necessary, along with experience in organizing and conducting training sessions on financial topics.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in finance, accounting, economics, business management, project management, or a related field. A Master’s degree is preferred and will be viewed favorably during the selection process. The educational qualifications should provide a solid foundation in financial principles and practices, enabling the consultant to effectively support local entrepreneurs in their financial endeavors.

Experience:
The position requires at least five years of professional experience in accounting, financial management, or financial consulting. This experience should ideally include work with small and medium enterprises, providing the consultant with the necessary insights into the unique challenges and opportunities faced by these businesses. Experience in training and mentoring individuals or groups in financial topics will also be beneficial, as the consultant will be expected to conduct workshops and provide guidance to entrepreneurs.

Languages:
Fluency in Russian and Kyrgyz, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. A good understanding of the English language is preferred, as it may facilitate communication with international stakeholders and enhance the consultant's ability to access a wider range of resources and information. The ability to communicate effectively in these languages is crucial for the successful delivery of consultancy services and training sessions.

Additional Notes:
The contract for this position is categorized as a Special Service Agreement (SSA) and is intended for a consultant role. The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified candidates from various backgrounds to apply. The remuneration package will be based on the consultant's qualifications and experience, as well as the specific tasks and deliverables associated with the position. The OSCE emphasizes the importance of ethical conduct and professionalism among its officials, and candidates should be aware that no payment is required at any stage of the application process. The target start date for this position is as soon as possible, and the office retains the discretion to modify the job description or duration as necessary.