Country: Kyrgyzstan
Closing date: 13 Feb 2017
Since 1963 and in 146 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 delivers technical and management assistance in agribusiness, financial services, enterprise development, community development and food security in order to promote broad-based economic growth and vibrant civil society. ACDI/VOCA currently has approximately 44 projects in 31 countries and total revenues of $151 million.
Job Summary:
ACDI/VOCA is seeking a Chief of Party (COP) for an anticipated five-year, $10-25 million USAID-funded enterprise development and investment project in Kyrgyzstan, the Enterprise Competitiveness Project (ECP). ACDI/VOCA seeks a highly qualified candidate with proven experience leading project teams and implementing integrated programs that address inclusive business solutions to sustainable economic growth, enhancing private sector growth through small and medium enterprises (SMEs), expanding investment opportunities, and enhancing financial services for small business owners across multiple sectors (for example: agriculture, textiles/apparel, tourism, technology, etc.). The project’s anticipated focus will be to promote private sector growth through a comprehensive approach to entrepreneurship, business development, and investment to support development objectives in Kyrgyzstan.
Responsibilities:
Provide overall vision, leadership and guidance of the project’s implementation for project staff in Kyrgyzstan, partnering organizations, host government, other donors, and stakeholders.
Serve as ECP’s external face and internal leader for project implementation.
Lead a multi-component project team of approximately 20-30 staff in strengthening SME competitiveness in targeted economic sectors throughout Kyrgyzstan.
Lead strategic development and oversight for leveraging capital to foster business development and promote entrepreneurship and innovation.
Oversee monitoring of project key performance indicators (KPIs), regularly evaluate project results, and guide project implementation to achieve maximum impact.
Oversee management of subcontracts/grants with international and local organizations to ensure full project integration and that deliverable targets are met.
Oversee the preparation and submission of annual work plans, regular progress reports, and achievement of program results to USAID.
Oversee the project’s financial compliance and procedures, ensuring compliance with established ACDI/VOCA’s accounting principles and USAID regulations. Serve as an ACDI/VOCA signatory on expenses up to certain thresholds.
Effectively liaise and plan with Government of Kyrgyzstan officials at national and local levels, as well as with USAID and other donors.
Provide frequent oral presentations to USAID and other requested stakeholders on progress and achieved results.
Coordinate regularly with ACDI/VOCA’s headquarters office in Washington, DC, and represent the organization at relevant events and meetings with government officials and the donor community.
Qualifications:
A minimum of 12 years of experience in consulting, corporate strategy and planning, impact investing, international development, development finance, small business development, or a combination of the above.
Master’s degree or equivalent in economics, finance, marketing, business administration, agribusiness, or related area.
Previous experience as a COP, Project Director, or similar senior management position for projects with similar magnitude and complexity in developing countries is preferred.
Experience with USAID programs and knowledge of USAID rules and regulations desired.
Previous experience working in Kyrgyzstan or the Europe/Caucasus/Central Asia (ECCA) region strongly preferred.
Ideal candidates will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the business and investment challenges and opportunities that emerging markets present, and a passion for using market-based approaches to solving complex development problems.
Ability to show progressive advancement in his/her career.
A positive attitude and willingness to adaptively manage projects and partners in complex environments.
Excellent writing and communication skills.
Fluency in English required; Russian language skills are strongly preferred.
How to apply:
Please apply online at www.acdivoca.org/international-jobs or at http://acdivoca.bosmaxhire.net/cp/?E5556E361D43717B7E59192F77501D6B03627B4D. No phone calls please. Only finalists will be contacted. Women, minorities, and Kyrgyz nationals are encouraged to apply. EOE.