SNV is a not-for-profit international development organisation that makes a lasting difference in the lives of people living in poverty by helping them raise incomes and access basic services. We focus on only three sectors and have a long-term, local presence in over 25 countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America. Our team of more than 1,300 staff is the backbone of SNV.
We are recruiting to fill the position below:
Job Title: Business and Investment Expert – West Africa
Location: Lagos
Job type: Full-time
Contract type: International employment contract
Description
- Embark on a transformative journey by joining SNV as a Business and Investment Expert for West Africa, where you’ll play a crucial role in shaping strategic business cases, influencing investments, and fostering international collaboration for capacity-building towards a more sustainable and resilient future.
- SNV stands as a key partner in managing the Origination Facility (OF) within the Dutch Fund for Climate and Development (DFCD). Our primary mission is to source and develop projects, elevating them to the ‘bankability’ stage.
- This critical phase unlocks doors for FMO (Netherlands Development Bank) and CFM (Climate Fund Managers) to secure private sector funding crucial for implementing impactful, climate-resilient projects.
- The OF focuses on identifying promising business ideas and projects through preliminary feasibility studies, strategically emphasizing thematic subsectors under the DFCD, and utilizing landscape strategies for sourcing activities.
- We operate through two investment windows, Water and Land use. Seize the moment to be part of this impactful initiative, with the recent approval of an additional €40 million in funding from the Dutch government for the OF (2024-2027).
- As a key team member, you’ll work closely with Business Origination Advisors (BOAs) and global technical staff.
- Your role extends to coordinating grant application assessments, preparing grant decision advice, and overseeing the provision of technical assistance to businesses in West Africa.
- Additionally, you’ll provide strategic project guidance to the broader DFCD Consortium and collaborate with consortium partners and external stakeholders in the region.
- This role offers a unique opportunity to shape impactful climate-resilient projects in West Africa, contributing significantly to sustainable development on a global scale.
- We are seeking an individual with profound investment expertise, strategic leadership skills, and a passion for shaping a more sustainable and resilient future worldwide. Join us in driving positive change.
Key Responsibilities
Scoping and Structuring New Business Cases:
- Identify and prepare investment proposals through analysis and discussions.
- Provide strategic support to in-country Business Origination Advisors (BOAs).
- Ensure compliance with the fund’s assessment framework.
- Undertake administrative tasks, support due diligence visits, and analyze financial data.
Monitoring Portfolio of Contracted Grants in the Region:
- Prepare credit reviews and support in-country BOAs in portfolio monitoring.
- Handle administrative tasks related to compliance, reporting, and drafting proposals.
Analysis and Support:
- Offer support on repeat transactions for existing clients.
- Assist team members in various aspects of the portfolio management process.
Basic Qualifications
- MSc Degree in (Agri) Economics, Finance, Business Administration, or Engineering.
- Minimum of 7 years of international development, corporate banking, and project financing experience, with at least 5 years as an investment business expert or in investment banking for the agri-food sector.
- Proven track record in developing investment proposals exceeding 3 million and strong proficiency in financial modelling.
- Demonstrated strategic thinking and leadership skills for scoping and structuring complex business cases.
- International experience, especially in emerging markets.
- Excellent English communication skills (written and verbal), with basic proficiency in French (at least written).
Additional qualifications:
- Expertise in climate finance, showcasing the ability to navigate and leverage financial mechanisms for sustainable projects.
- Strong relationship-building skills with a client-centric approach.
- Diplomatic and tactful interactions with diverse stakeholders.
- Proficient in risk assessment, including financial modelling, for informed decision-making.
- Collaborative team player with a proactive, solution-oriented attitude.
- Excellent planning, administration, organizing, and prioritizing skills for efficient project management.
- Ability to identify and mitigate risks, with a commitment to escalating issues when needed.
- Alignment with SNV’s mission and thematic areas.
- Embrace SNV’s core values of people-centeredness and respect, equity and equality, and diversity and inclusion.
Application Closing Date
Not Specified.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should: