Research Fellow II - Investment Lead, BE Project at African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS)

This RFII will be hosted by the Climate Resilient Economies Programme, a multifaceted programme with the goal of creating impact in the climate change space through the learning, policy, business and partnerships hubs. The Investment Lead will spearhead the investment component of the project, identifying and securing funding opportunities, developing investment strategies, and ensuring the financial sustainability of the project. This role involves close collaboration with local communities, government agencies, private sector stakeholders, and investors to drive economic growth and resilience in the blue economy sector.

Duties and responsibilities

The responsibilities are based on the core work packages of the BE project and programme resource mobilization activities

Project based (80%)

Investment Strategy Development:

• Develop and implement investment strategies to attract funding for IMTA initiatives.
• Identify and engage potential investors, including impact investors and financial institutions.
• Create investment readiness programs tailored for self-organized women groups.

Funding and Resource Mobilization:

• Conduct needs assessments to understand community investment requirements.
• Prepare investment proposals and pitch presentations for potential investors.
• Facilitate investment matching and pitching events.

Financial Management and Reporting:

• Oversee the financial management of investment funds.
• Ensure accurate and transparent financial reporting.
• Monitor and evaluate the financial performance of funded initiatives.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and private sector partners.
• Organize and participate in workshops, seminars, and meetings to promote investment opportunities.
• Collaborate with project partners to align investment strategies with project goals.

Capacity Building:

• Provide training and mentorship to project staff and community members on investment readiness and financial management.
• Develop educational materials and conduct outreach activities to enhance investment literacy.
• Support business incubation workshops and mentorship programs.

Policy Engagement:

• Assist in policy dialogues and advocacy efforts related to investment in the blue economy.
• Contribute to the development of policy briefs and recommendations to create an enabling environment for investment.
• Support the organization of high-level policy dialogues and hackathons.

CRE Programme based (20%)

• To support the technical and financial reporting of the project activities
• To mobilize resources within the CRE programme for sustainability of existing projects and attracting new ones

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Environmental Science, Limnology, wetland management, Marine Biology,
• Background in Economics, Finance, and Business Administration is an added advantage.
• Proven experience in investment strategy development and financial management.
• Knowledge of sustainable aquaculture practices and investment strategies.
• Strong communication and report-writing skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Experience in community engagement and capacity building is an asset.