Business and Investment Expert – West Africa

Company Description

SNV is a mission-driven global development partner working in more than 20 countries across Africa and Asia. Building on 60 years of experience and grounded in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, we work on the core themes of gender equality and social inclusion, climate adaptation and mitigation, and strong institutions and effective governance.  Together with our team of over 1,600 people, our mission is to strengthen capacities and catalyse partnerships that transform the agri-food, energy, and water systems, which enable sustainable and more equitable lives for all.

Our core values of people-centeredness and respect, equity and equality, and diversity and inclusion, are fundamental to who we are, and what we do. This is reflected in our vision and mission, and strategy, which sets out our aspirations and commitments as our compass towards 2030.

For more information on SNV, please refer to our website: www.snv.org

Job 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.

Qualifications

Basic qualifications:

• MSc degree in (agri)economics, finance, business administration, or engineering.
• Minimum 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.

Additional Information

• Contract Type: Full time
• Duty Station: Nigeria
• Contract Duration: 2 years, with the potential for extension
• Expected Start Date: March
• Travel: Frequently within West Africa (30%)

How to Apply

If you believe that your credentials meet the outlined profile, we invite you to apply by uploading your CV and a letter of motivation before/on the 12th of February 2024. Please submit your application only via Smart Recruiters. All information will be processed in the strictest confidence. 

If we see that your experience and skills match the requirements of the position, we will contact you to advise you of the next steps in the recruitment process. Should SNV wish to proceed with your application, two interviews with a Selection Committee will take place.

SNV is an equal opportunities employer and female candidates are encouraged to apply.

Working at SNV  
SNV offers a challenging work environment, opportunities to lead and innovate, and a commitment to growing your skills in a fulfilling and diverse working environment. Our staff benefit from, and contribute to, an internal and global network of experts.

Vetting.

SNV carries out rigorous background and reference checks concerning possible safeguarding incidents for all candidates applying for International determined positions. As SNV participates in the Inter-Agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme, all reference checks include a request to past employers to fill in a questionnaire regarding Misconduct (sexual exploitation, sexual abuse, or sexual harassment), the “Statement of Conduct". This Statement of Conduct adopts the definitions used in the Scheme.  

*We do not appreciate third-party mediation based on this advertisement.