Program Engagement Consultant-MNO 11

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded on the belief that a better world is possible. Established to address humanitarian crises and foster development, Mercy Corps operates in over 40 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on empowering communities to overcome adversity and build resilience through innovative solutions. With a diverse workforce, Mercy Corps emphasizes collaboration and partnerships to implement impactful programs that address the needs of vulnerable populations.

Job Overview:
The Program Engagement Consultant-MNO 11 will play a crucial role in supporting the Ethiopia MNO Gender Innovation Facility, which is part of the BMGF's Women's Economic Empowerment initiative. This position involves providing technical assistance to mobile network operators (MNOs) in Ethiopia, focusing on creating inclusive digital products and services that empower low-income women. The consultant will engage with various stakeholders, including MNOs, to develop project plans, monitor progress, and ensure the successful implementation of initiatives aimed at bridging the digital divide and enhancing economic opportunities for women. The consultant will also contribute to the learning agenda of the program, tracking impact metrics and supporting the development of proposals to leverage funding for innovative projects.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a wide range of activities, including:

• Supporting partner relationships and project plans, ensuring alignment with the objectives of the BMGF MNO and WCS management.
• Assisting in the development of business and work plans for partners, reviewing marketing strategies, operational manuals, and financial statements.
• Monitoring project progress and providing oversight for technical consultants or third-party providers, addressing issues as they arise.
• Preparing regular project progress reports and status updates for stakeholders.
• Conducting due diligence on potential partners and compiling necessary legal documentation.
• Staying informed about the Ethiopian agri/fintech ecosystem and participating in learning meetings with program stakeholders.
• Identifying and supporting technical consultants as needed, including preparing terms of reference and scopes of work.
• Contributing to the learning agenda of the BMGF MNO and WCS programs and tracking partner impact metrics.
• Assisting MNOs in developing proposals to access the BMGF Innovation Fund and providing technical assistance for proposal concepts. 1
• Supporting internal and external partners in generating key learnings and collecting impact data for donors.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, or a related field, with a master’s degree preferred. A minimum of three years of relevant work experience in banking, mobile network operations, or reputable organizations is required. Experience in mobile money, financial services, or technology for development is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate excellent computer skills, verbal and written communication abilities, and strong interpersonal skills. A proactive and self-disciplined approach is essential, along with the ability to work effectively in multicultural teams. Experience in project management, monitoring and evaluation, and analytical problem-solving is also necessary.

Educational Background:
The position requires a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, or a related field. A master’s degree is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and understanding of the complexities involved in the role.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of three years of experience working in relevant sectors such as banking, mobile network operations, or international organizations. Experience with mobile money and financial services is particularly advantageous, as is familiarity with the Ethiopian market and its regulatory environment.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and for reporting purposes. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Ethiopia would be considered a valuable asset, enhancing communication with local stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is set to take place from May 1, 2026, to October 31, 202

• The consultant will report to the DCSA Director and work closely with the AgriFin Technical Team. This position is expected to be full-time during the consultancy period, and the consultant will be required to produce monthly reports detailing activities, meetings, and time spent on various tasks. The role emphasizes collaboration, accountability, and adherence to Mercy Corps' values and ethical standards.