Analyst

Job Posting Organization:
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is an international financial institution founded in 199

• Its mission is to foster the transition towards open market-oriented economies and to promote private and entrepreneurial initiative in countries from Central Europe to Central Asia and the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean. The EBRD operates in over 30 countries, employing thousands of professionals dedicated to supporting the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and enhancing the economic development of the regions it serves. The organization is committed to sustainability, inclusiveness, and innovation, and it works closely with various stakeholders, including governments, private sector entities, and civil society, to achieve its goals.

Job Overview:
The Analyst position is integral to the EBRD's Advice for Small Businesses Programme, which aims to support SMEs through advisory services and financial products. The Analyst will be involved in various stages of project management, including initiation, structuring, execution, and monitoring of advisory projects. This role requires collaboration with clients to assess their business needs and identify areas where advisory support is necessary. The Analyst will also be responsible for developing project scopes, identifying suitable consultants, and ensuring that all activities align with the strategic priorities of the EBRD. The position demands a proactive approach to business development, ensuring a pipeline of compliant projects that meet the needs of SMEs while adhering to the Bank's policies and ethical standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Analyst will perform a wide range of duties under the supervision of the Principal Manager, including:

• Executing all activities under the Advice for Small Businesses Programme in alignment with the Bank’s policies and donor requirements.
• Conducting thorough analyses of clients’ financials and growth prospects to structure impactful advisory support.
• Contributing to business development by generating a pipeline of high-quality clients and advisory activities in strategic priority areas such as digitalization and green economy.
• Monitoring the performance of portfolio companies and providing follow-up support to ensure their growth and financing needs are met.
• Collaborating with local consultants and stakeholders to enhance the effectiveness of advisory services.
• Preparing and submitting accurate financial reports and maintaining organized documentation for all local payments.
• Implementing marketing and visibility activities to promote the Advice for Small Businesses Programme and its impact.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Business, Economics, Finance, or a related field, along with strong business and financial analytical skills. The ability to interpret financial accounts and conduct thorough financial analyses is essential. Candidates should demonstrate strong project management and organizational skills, as well as effective communication, presentation, and negotiation abilities. Proficiency in writing advisory project proposals and reports is highly desirable. Fluency in English is mandatory, and fluency in the local language is also required. Candidates should be computer literate, with excellent knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel and PowerPoint.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Business, Economics, or Finance is required. Advanced degrees or certifications in these areas may be advantageous but are not mandatory. Candidates should have a solid understanding of local accounting principles and analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">financial analysis techniques, which are critical for the role.

Experience:
Relevant professional experience is required, ideally from commercial management consultancy, development institutions, or financial institutions such as banks. Candidates should have knowledge of EBRD’s strategic SME priority areas, including green economy, economic inclusion, and digitalization. Experience working in business advisory services and familiarity with the local business environment and consultancy market are essential. Candidates should also have a good understanding of relevant stakeholders and SME business associations.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and verbal. Additionally, fluency in the local language of Benin is essential for effective communication with clients and stakeholders. Knowledge of other languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term contract for a duration of 2 years. The role is full-time and may require travel within the country and internationally. The EBRD promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of their background. The organization offers a comprehensive suite of competitive benefits and prioritizes employee wellbeing.