National Expert on Access to Finance

Overview

The National Expert on Access to Finance will coordinate the implementation of a joint programme aimed at unlocking public and private financing for youth- and women-led SMEs in Tunisia.

Key Responsibilities

• Advise on detailed work plans and budgets.
• Coordinate project activity execution, quality control, and monitoring.
• Liaise with government and stakeholders, providing updates and troubleshooting.
• Attend key project meetings and act as the national focal point.
• Organize and conduct project briefings and debriefings.
• Coordinate the preparation of ToRs for consultants and service providers.
• Manage local partner coordination.
• Coordinate the preparation of technical requirements for procurement.
• Take initiatives to enhance programme success and partnerships.
• Maintain links with other private sector development initiatives.
• Contribute to monitoring, evaluation, and reporting activities.
• Provide inputs for strategic advice on operational planning and monitoring.
• Coordinate project monitoring and evaluation using appropriate tools.
• Execute administrative and financial monitoring of the project.
• Coordinate the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual reporting.
• Contribute to the coordination and preparation of steering committee meetings.
• Maintain networks and partnerships with national institutions, private sector, and UN partners.
• Coordinate the dissemination of project knowledge to the wider public.

Required Experience

At least seven (7) years of professional experience in coordinating the implementation of development/technical cooperation programmes/projects at national level, preferably in development finance, access to finance, or SME support, is required. Strong knowledge of Tunisia’s economic context, financial ecosystem, SME ecosystem, and/or gender/youth inclusion strategies, is required. Experience in stakeholder engagement and coordination with government, private sector, and international organizations, is required. Proficiency in ERP systems and UN or donor financial procedures is desirable. Expertise in financial matters, such as Knowledge of Financing Instruments, Pipeline Development of SMEs, Matchmaking & Networking, Financial Structuring & Advisory or Investment Readiness Support of SMEs is desirable. Experience in evaluating the needs conditions and problems of the country or similar country in the region is desirable. Experience/knowledge of other development agencies donor communities, private sectors, government and relevant institutions in the country, or similar country in the region is desirable.

Qualifications

Advanced university degree in economics, finance, accounting, development studies, or other relevant discipline is required. Alternatively, a first level university degree or an advanced technical college diploma may be acceptable provided it is combined with additional 7 years of professional hand-on experience that is directly relevant to the expertise required by the specific assignment.

Other Details