Finance Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek (POiB) is an integral part of the Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), which was established to promote peace, stability, and democracy in the region. The POiB focuses on socio-economic development in Kyrgyzstan, particularly through initiatives aimed at enhancing the capabilities of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and fostering economic connectivity. The office supports various projects, including the Business Promotion and Development of SMEs Project, which aims to empower local entrepreneurs and promote women's economic empowerment. The organization operates in multiple regions within Kyrgyzstan, including Batken, Issyk-Kul, Jalal-Abad, Osh, and Talas, and is committed to building capacity and providing resources to enhance the local economy. The POiB employs a diverse team of professionals dedicated to achieving its mission and operates in alignment with the OSCE's broader goals of security and cooperation across its member states.

Job Overview:
The Finance Consultant position is designed to provide essential financial advisory services to local entrepreneurs in the Naryn region of Kyrgyzstan. The consultant will work closely with Entrepreneurship Support Centres (ESCs) and the Joint Investment Agency (JIA) in Naryn to assist local businesses in establishing sound accounting practices, preparing financial statements, and developing effective budgeting and cash-flow management tools. The role also involves advising entrepreneurs on cost control and financial planning, ensuring compliance with national tax legislation, and assisting with tax-related matters. The consultant will play a crucial role in helping entrepreneurs draft compelling project proposals, attract investments, and ensure accurate expense calculations, which are vital for the sustainability of their businesses. Additionally, the consultant will support the implementation of the Women’s Economic Empowerment Component (WEEC) by providing targeted coaching, workshops, and practical consultations to women beneficiaries, ensuring they are equipped to develop feasible and realistic business plans for sustainable growth. This position is pivotal in enhancing the overall economic landscape of the Naryn region by empowering local entrepreneurs and fostering a supportive environment for SME development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Consultant will be responsible for a variety of tasks aimed at supporting local entrepreneurs in the Naryn region. Key duties include:

• Developing a comprehensive action plan for the duration of the consultancy contract, outlining clear timelines and objectives.
• Providing consultancy services to entrepreneurs in the Naryn region on financial planning, accounting, taxation, investment, and other business-related issues.
• Coordinating with the ESC PR manager to showcase success stories of consultancy services provided to local entrepreneurs.
• Conducting a minimum of three training sessions, workshops, or roundtables (either online or offline) focused on finance-related topics for entrepreneurs.
• Assisting the POiB in organizing a workshop for women beneficiaries in Naryn, including follow-up consultations.
• Supporting the implementation of the WEEC by providing training, mentorship, and support for selected women beneficiaries.
• Delivering an action plan, monthly consultation reports, training materials, and success stories in coordination with the PR manager.
• Preparing technical specifications for equipment to be granted to women entrepreneurs and summarizing mentorship activities and outcomes in monthly reports.
• Compiling a final report that summarizes results and lessons learned throughout the consultancy period.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in finance, accounting, economics, business management, project management, or a related field. A Master’s degree is considered an advantage. Additionally, candidates should have at least five years of professional experience in accounting, financial management, or financial consulting, preferably with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). A strong understanding of national accounting standards and tax legislation applicable to SMEs is essential. Candidates should also demonstrate knowledge of finance and taxation best practices, 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 using accounting software such as Salyk and 1C, as well as common business software and project management tools, is required. Experience in organizing and conducting training sessions on topics such as accounting, taxation, financial planning, or business strategies is an asset. Candidates should also exhibit strong digital literacy and familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite and internet applications. Furthermore, candidates must demonstrate gender awareness and sensitivity, with the ability to integrate a gender perspective into their work.

Educational Background:
The position requires 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. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant possesses the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively support local entrepreneurs in their financial and business endeavors.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of professional experience in accounting, financial management, or financial consulting, with a preference for experience working with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This level of experience is crucial for understanding the unique challenges faced by local entrepreneurs and providing them with effective financial advisory services. The consultant should have a proven track record of successfully assisting businesses in financial planning, compliance with tax regulations, and overall financial management.

Languages:
Fluency in Russian and Kyrgyz, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position, as the consultant will be working directly with local entrepreneurs and beneficiaries. A good understanding of the English language is preferred, as it may be necessary for communication with international stakeholders and for accessing relevant resources. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication and the successful delivery of training and consultancy services.

Additional Notes:
The position is offered under a Special Service Agreement (SSA) contract type, and the consultant will be expected to start as soon as possible. The remuneration package will be based on the consultant's qualifications, experience, and the specific tasks and deliverables associated with the position, in accordance with the OSCE's established rates. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce and encourages qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The organization emphasizes the importance of ethical conduct and professionalism among its officials, ensuring that all candidates understand the expectations of integrity and impartiality in their roles.