Since 1963 and in 148 countries, ACDI/VOCA has empowered people in developing and transitional nations to succeed in the global economy. Based in Washington, D.C., ACDI/VOCA is a nonprofit international development organization that designs and delivers technical and management solutions in agriculture, economic growth, and resilience to promote economic prosperity and social inclusion.

Green Finance Director, Kyrgyzstan

ACDI/VOCA is seeking a Green Finance Director for an upcoming Green Economy Activity in Kyrgyzstan funded by USAID. The anticipated program will address climate related issues in the economy of Kyrgyzstan. The Activity will include work on a policy framework for sustainable and green solutions in the economy and the promotion of practices that contribute to a green economy within the private and public sectors.

The Green Finance Director will establish working relationships with finance institutions and assess their perceptions, limitations, and concerns regarding extending access to finance to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). The program is anticipated to start in 2024 and this position will be based in Kyrgyzstan.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a conduit of information on financing opportunities in support of SMEs and link participants to existing programs designed to facilitate access to finance for SMEs
• Develop financing strategies for SMEs that have well-articulated growth strategies for which they need financing
• Lead on the development, adoption, and demand stimulation for products and services that allow for quantification of climate-related risks in investment decision-making
• Identify obstacles to accessing finance that is encountered by various SMEs that are working along the targeted value chains (producers, processors, and buyers)
• In collaboration with government entities, organize roundtable discussions on extending access to finance to SMEs
• Coordinate activities that provide training and direct technical assistance to producers, traders, processors, and suppliers on the development of business plans, making credit applications, and keeping appropriate business records needed to support credit applications
• Work with the MEL Specialist to identify feasible M&E indicators and target results that speak to finance accessed by participants via various mechanisms supported
• Participate in the collection of data regarding indicators focusing on access to finance
• Collaborate with the program team to identify activities related to improving access to finance and assist in developing Annual Work Plans

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, business, development studies, or relevant field is required; master’s degree is desired.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant, progressively responsible experience in finance, banking, or related field.
• Knowledge of and experience with USAID rules and regulations.
• Experience in designing and implementing access to finance programs.
• Experience working in Kyrgyzstan preferred.
• Fluency in English is required. Proficiency in Russian and/or a local language is required.

Kyrgyz nationals are strongly encouraged to apply.