Microenterprise Program Coordinator

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Position Title: Microenterprise Program Coordinator
Location: Wichita
Country: United States
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a global humanitarian organization that helps people affected by conflict and disaster to survive, recover, and rebuild their lives. Established in 1933, the IRC operates in over 40 countries and 26 U.S. cities, providing assistance to refugees and displaced persons. The organization focuses on various areas including health, education, economic wellbeing, and empowerment of vulnerable populations. With thousands of employees worldwide, the IRC is committed to its mission of helping those in need and advocating for their rights.

Job Overview:
The Microenterprise Program Coordinator plays a crucial role in the Microenterprise Development Program (MED) at the International Rescue Committee. This position is primarily responsible for recruiting potential refugee entrepreneurs and facilitating their access to business training and resources. The coordinator will engage with clients to help them develop business plans, provide one-on-one technical assistance, and support them in accessing capital for their ventures. The role also involves building partnerships within the community and ensuring compliance with donor reporting requirements. The coordinator will work closely with internal staff and external partners to create outreach materials and conduct program orientations, ensuring that participants are well-informed and prepared to engage with the program. The position requires strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively while tracking client progress and program outcomes.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Recruitment of program participants: Engage potential participants through outreach efforts, including the development and distribution of promotional materials such as flyers and brochures. Conduct program orientations and training sessions for individuals and groups to inform them about the MED program.
• Tracking: Ensure that all necessary documentation is collected to verify participant eligibility for services. Oversee compliance with case file documentation and conduct participant surveys to evaluate program effectiveness. Enter data into the program’s information systems and provide regular reports to the Economic Empowerment Manager as required by donors.
• Service provision: Assess potential clients for the MED program and assist them in preparing for enrollment. Provide technical assistance to microenterprise clients and make referrals to external resources as needed. Coordinate training workshops, including arranging for guest speakers and trainers. Work with the Financial Coach to help clients access small business loans and other forms of capital.
• Other duties as assigned: Be flexible and willing to take on additional responsibilities as needed to support the program and its participants.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree in economics, finance, business, development, or a related field. A demonstrated understanding of the U.S. business climate and systems, as well as business development practices, is essential. The ability to communicate effectively and diplomatically in a multicultural setting, particularly with individuals who have limited English proficiency, is crucial. Strong organizational skills, including the ability to multitask, prioritize, and manage time effectively, are required. Candidates must also have computer literacy, particularly in Microsoft Office applications, and a valid driver’s license with access to a reliable vehicle for travel within the service delivery area.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as economics, finance, business, or development is preferred for this position. This educational background provides the foundational knowledge necessary for understanding business principles and practices, which are critical for supporting refugee entrepreneurs in their business endeavors.

Experience:
Candidates should have experience working in a multicultural environment and a demonstrated ability to engage with diverse populations. Experience in business development, economic empowerment, or related fields is highly desirable. Familiarity with the challenges faced by refugees and immigrants in starting businesses is a plus. The role may require occasional night or weekend work, so flexibility in scheduling is important.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Bilingual ability in any refugee language is preferred, as it will enhance communication with program participants and improve service delivery.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in the IRC Wichita office, which operates in a standard office environment. The compensation package includes a competitive salary based on various factors such as labor market conditions and individual candidate experience. The organization is committed to diversity and equal opportunity, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their background, have access to employment opportunities. Benefits for U.S.-based employees include paid time off, medical and dental insurance, a retirement savings plan, and an Employee Assistance Program. The organization also provides reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities during the application process and throughout employment.