Capacity Development (CD) Assistant – Market Development at African Guarantee Fund (AGF)

Position Summary

The Capacity Development (CD) Assistant – Market Development will be responsible for assisting the Group Director, Capacity Development to identify, structure, manage and implement market development CD activities with strategic partners in Africa.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

• Identification of market development CD activities relevant for the growth, formalization and transformation of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Africa
• Mapping out of strategic partners in Africa who are involved in initiatives regarding growth and transformation of MSMES
• Structuring of partnerships agreements between AGF and such partners
• Drafting of the CD Proposals with to operationalize the partnerships between AGF and these partners
• Drafting of CD Papers
• Monitoring of CD activity implementation
• Preparation of Disbursement/Payment Memos
• Assist in the planning, organization and logistics of different forums
• Drafting of the various CD Reports using the set templates:
  • Specific CD partner reports,
  • Internal management reports,
  • Stakeholder periodic reports
• Attend relevant stakeholder forums
• Collaborate with the AGF Senior Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Officer to package outcome/impact reports
• Collaborate with AGF Communications and M&E Officer to package case studies and relevant documentaries
• Perform any other task as assigned by the Group CD Director

Qualifications, knowledge, skills & Experience Required

Desirable skills, knowledge and experiences

• Masters’ degree in any Business-related areas.
• Diploma in Project or Programme Management.
• At least 5 years work experience working with MSMEs.
• At least 5 years relevant experience working with a variety of MSME stakeholders such as Associations, Hubs etc.
• Knowledge in lending to SMEs and specifically women-led SMEs will be an added advantage.
• Strong analytical, written/oral, communication.
• Ability to handle multiple projects under pressure while meeting tight deadlines.
• Hands on experience in developing and managing project plans and strategies.
• Strong partnership and relationship management skills.
• Ability to compile and report results of activities.
• Monitoring and evaluation skills is mandatory.
• High degree of computer literacy a must.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and management skills.
• Bilingual – fluent in English is a must and French will be great plus.

Skills

• Advanced problem solving, critical thinking, and analytical skills.
• Good operational and management skills.
• Strong prioritization skills.
• Adequate interpersonal and relationship management skills.
• Great presentation and communication skills.
• Strong negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work in an evolving environment.
• Ability to learn quickly / develop the necessary skills.
• Team player with strong interpersonal and leadership skills
• Excellent project management and consulting skills.
• Excellent IT skills.

Additional eligibility competences and desired characteristics

• Attentiveness to details.
• Ability to use spreadsheets and any project management software.
• Self-driven individual with a passion and flair for helping financial institutions and SMEs succeed.
• Ability to work in a professionally and culturally diverse setting.
• Willingness and ability to travel and work under minimum supervision.

Eligibility

• The position is open to candidates of any country.