Program Lead(Access to Finance)

• 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.
  

• 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.
  

• 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)
  

• 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.
  

• 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
  

• 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.
  

• 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.
  

• 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 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, with experience in blended finance and impact investing.
  
• Experience working with donor -funded programs (e.g., Gates, DFID, USAID)
  
• Strong understanding of Nigerian financial ecosystem
  

• 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.
  

• 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.