Program Lead - Access to Finance

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 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.

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.

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.
• 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.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in finance, fundraising, or a related field, with a focus on MSMEs.
• Proven track record of successfully securing funding and managing financial programs for MSMEs.

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.

About Us:

Food Health Systems Advisory Limited (FHSA) is a leading management consulting firm that specializes in providing comprehensive advisory services to the private sector, governments, and internationan in the field of food systems and international development. As trusted advisors, we offer a wide range of advisory services, including research, project implementation, food safety and quality management, training, crisis and complaint management outsourcing, product development, and agribusiness. Our team of experts is highly skilled in various domains, including food safety, nutrition, agro-processing, food security, food trade, food laws, and compliance. At FHSA, we are committed to providing strategic guidance and customized solutions to address the food systems challenges in Africa.

Location: Lagos

Work Mode: Hybrid (80% office, 20% remote)