MICROENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST (WASHINGTON, DC-BASED)
The Washington, DC-based Microenteprise Development Specialist will manage a portfolio of enterprise development and financial service projects, providing technical and administrative support to USAID and other donor funded projects in Africa and Asia. S/he will supervise and liaise regularly with Chief of Parties, organize required STTA in support of the COP’s requests and ensure the program runs smoothly. The PM will also ensure that all contractual and financial requirements are adhered to and that deliverables and ad hoc reports are submitted in a timely manner. S/he will also facilitate consultations with AED’s contractual and financial management services as needed.
A major part of the Specialist’s portfolio in the first year will be a value chain development program in Kabul, Afghanistan, that seeks to upgrade MSEs in the construction sector that employ youth as apprentices. To support the project, the Specialist will be expected to travel to Kabul extensively in the first year (4-6 months), with less frequent travel in year two and three of the project (average 3 months). The work in Afghanistan will be balanced with support/management of other projects in Africa and Asia.
Requirements:
• Minimum 8-10 years experience in senior management positions for development programs focusing on value chain/market development and including financial management responsibility. At least four years of experience providing home office oversight of field-led projects is preferred.
• Technical experience in value chain strengthening and market driven MSE strengthening programs as well as practical knowledge of monitoring and evaluation methodologies;
• Technical experience in financial service provision, including sector development strategies, commercial bank downscaling, SME lending and microfinance institution building
• Thorough familiarity with USAID regulations and policies;
• Degree in Business Administration, Economic or International Development, Development Management, Agricultural or Development Economics, Project Management, or a related field;
• Excellent problem-solving skills; ability to analyze data; conceptualize, perform, and apply mathematics skills; and develop financial systems;
• Demonstrated skills in leadership and supervision, with an ability to develop relationships and a common vision among stakeholders;
• Excellent English verbal and written communication skills required,
• Familiarity with post-conflict and fragile state contexts preferred.
TO APPLY
To apply send a cover letter, CV, a USAID 1420/biodata form, and the names and contact details of three references to cit@aed.org. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, although applicants are encouraged to apply by July 11, 2008. No calls please.
