Responsibilities
Strategic Financial Planning and Implementation:
Develop and implement comprehensive strategies to improve MSMEs' access to finance.
Identify and evaluate funding opportunities, including grants, loans, and investments specific to MSMEs.
Create comprehensive financial plans and models tailored for MSMEs.
Fundraising and Financing:
Lead efforts to secure funding for MSMEs from various sources, including banks, investors, and government programs.
Prepare and present funding proposals and business plans to potential financiers.
Negotiate terms and conditions of financing agreements on behalf of MSMEs.
Financial Product & Instrument Design
Design and structure innovative financial products (e.g., blended finance, guarantees, revolving funds, equipment leasing models)
Work with financial institutions to co-create MSME-friendly financing solutions
Pilot and scale tailored financing models for underserved segments (e.g., women-led businesses)
Financial Analysis and Reporting:
Conduct financial analysis to evaluate the feasibility and impact of funding options for MSMEs.
Monitor financial performance and report on the status of funding initiatives.
Provide regular updates to senior management and MSMEs on financial health and funding activities.
Policy & Stakeholder Management:
Build and maintain relationships with key financial stakeholders, including banks, investors, and grant providers.
Engage with internal and external stakeholders to align financial strategies with the objectives of MSMEs.
Represent the program at financial meetings, conferences, and networking events.
Engage with policymakers and regulators to address systemic barriers to MSME financing
Contribute to policy dialogue and advocacy for inclusive finance
Identify and address market system constraints affecting access to finance
Risk Management:
Identify financial risks facing MSMEs and develop mitigation strategies.
Ensure compliance with financial regulations and standards relevant to MSMEs.
Monitor the financial environment for changes that could impact MSMEs funding strategies.
Capacity Building and Training:
Provide training and support to MSMEs on financial management and funding strategies in collaboration with identified Business Development Service Providers (BDSP).
Develop and deliver workshops and seminars in collaboration with identified BDSP to improve the financial literacy of MSME owners.
Ensure MSMEs have access to resources and tools needed to succeed financially.
Program Management:
Oversee the implementation and management of financial access programs for MSMEs.
Manage consultants and BDSPs delivering financial advisory services
Develop frameworks to track and measure impact of access-to-finance interventions
Document lessons learned and best practices
Monitor program performance and make adjustments as needed.
Report on program outcomes and impact to stakeholders.
Requirements
Bachelor's degree in Banking Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Economics, or a related field.
Advanced degree (MBA, MSc. Financial Management, CFA, etc.) preferred.
ÃÂâÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂ5 - 7 years of relevant experience in finance, fundraising, or related fields with a strong focus on MSMEs
Proven track record of securing funding and managing financial programs for MSMEs, including experience in blended finance and impact investing
Experience working with donor-funded programs (e.g., Gates Foundation, DFID, USAID)
Strong understanding of the Nigerian financial ecosystem
Prior experience working in a bank or microfinance institution as a Loan Officer (non-negotiable requirement)
Demonstrated ability to assess business viability, make sound lending decisions, and manage loan recovery processes
Skills:
Strong financial analysis and strategic planning skills.
Excellent communication and negotiation abilities.
Ability to build and maintain relationships with financial stakeholders.
Proficiency in financial modeling and forecasting.
Project management skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Competencies:
Results-driven with a focus on achieving business objectives.
Strong leadership and decision-making abilities.
Adaptability and flexibility in a fast-paced environment.
High level of integrity and ethical standards.