Access to Finance Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that aims to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working to improve the lives of people and build resilient nations. The organization focuses on various areas including democratic governance, peacebuilding, climate change, and sustainable development. UNDP is committed to promoting gender equality and empowering women and youth, recognizing their critical role in achieving sustainable development goals. The organization collaborates with governments, civil society, and the private sector to implement programs that address local challenges and foster inclusive growth.

Job Overview:
The Access to Finance Specialist will play a crucial role in the Enhancing Capacities of Young Women and Youth-Led Enterprises for Regional Trade (ECoWYERT) project, which aims to empower youth and women by enhancing the capacities of micro and small enterprises (MSMEs) to leverage opportunities presented by the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). This position involves establishing and managing the Grants and Revolving Fund components of the project, focusing on advancing finance for cross-border traders and MSMEs. The specialist will lead the design and implementation of innovative blended finance facilities, ensuring effective disbursement of funds to project participants, and will be responsible for monitoring and evaluating the performance of these financial components. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including local partners, financial institutions, and community organizations, to ensure that the project meets its objectives and effectively supports the target beneficiaries, particularly young women.

Duties and Responsibilities:
1) Lead the establishment of the Grants and Revolving Fund components of the project, including the design and structuring of impact-driven finance facilities, and the identification and onboarding of strategic partners. 2) Ensure effective disbursement of funds to project participants, including conducting due diligence and quality control, delivering training programs for local partners, and managing stakeholder convenings. 3) Monitor and evaluate the performance of the Grants and Revolving Fund, developing risk assessment frameworks and preparing detailed reports on financial activities. 4) Participate in knowledge-building activities, conducting research on access to finance, supporting the development of tailored financial products, and promoting knowledge sharing and best practices within the project.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in Finance, Business Administration, Actuarial Science, Management, Economics, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the above fields combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience will be considered. The position requires a minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in banking, impact finance, or development finance, with a strong understanding of blended finance structures. Candidates should demonstrate experience in designing and implementing innovative finance initiatives, strong analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">financial analysis skills, and the ability to build effective relationships with partners in both public and private sectors.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (master’s degree) in relevant fields such as Finance, Business Administration, Actuarial Science, Management, or Economics. A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in these fields, combined with additional qualifying experience, will also be considered. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of finance and development, particularly in relation to MSMEs and youth empowerment.

Experience:
The Access to Finance Specialist should have a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience at the national or international level, particularly in banking, impact finance, or development finance. Candidates with a bachelor’s degree should have at least 9 years of experience. The role requires a proven track record in designing, structuring, and implementing innovative finance initiatives, as well as experience in managing grants and working with MSMEs. Familiarity with the challenges faced by youth and women in accessing finance is crucial, as is experience in project management and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

Languages:
Proficiency in both written and spoken English is essential for this position. While English is the primary language required, knowledge of French is considered an asset, particularly given the regional context of the project and the potential for collaboration with French-speaking partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Lusaka, Zambia, and is part of a project funded by the Mastercard Foundation. The role involves full-time engagement and may require travel within the project implementation countries. UNDP is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization adheres to strict standards against harassment and discrimination, ensuring a safe and inclusive workplace for all personnel. Candidates should be aware that UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions in the future.