Program Lead(Access to Finance) at Food Health Systems Advisory (FHSA)

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 Product & Instrument Design

• Design and structure innovative financial products (e.g., blended finance, guarantees, revolving funds, equipment leasing models)
• Work with financial institutions to co-create MSME-friendly financing solutions
• Pilot and scale tailored financing models for underserved segments (e.g., women-led businesses)

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.

Policy & 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.
• Engage with policymakers and regulators to address systemic barriers to MSME financing
• Contribute to policy dialogue and advocacy for inclusive finance
• Identify and address market system constraints affecting access to finance

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.
• Manage consultants and BDSPs delivering financial advisory services
• Develop frameworks to track and measure impact of access-to-finance interventions
• Document lessons learned and best practices
• 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.
• ​5–7 years of relevant experience in finance, fundraising, or related fields with a strong focus on MSMEs
• Proven track record of securing funding and managing financial programs for MSMEs, including experience in blended finance and impact investing
• Experience working with donor-funded programs (e.g., Gates Foundation, DFID, USAID)
• Strong understanding of the Nigerian financial ecosystem
• Prior experience working in a bank or microfinance institution as a Loan Officer (non-negotiable requirement)
• Demonstrated ability to assess business viability, make sound lending decisions, and manage loan recovery processes

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.