Sanitation Finance Consultant
Organizational Context
UNICEF operates in over 190 countries, dedicated to saving children's lives, defending their rights, and helping them reach their full potential. We are committed to our mission, offering diverse opportunities for professional growth and a chance to make a meaningful impact on children's lives worldwide.
Job Purpose
This consultancy aims to support the mobilization of catalytic finance for Nigeria's WASH sector and the preparation of the Sanitation Programme Facility (SPF). The SPF will leverage donor-backed guarantees and grant-funded technical assistance to unlock commercial financing for household sanitation and enterprises across the sanitation value chain. The consultant will collaborate with UNICEF Nigeria, the WASH Innovation Hub, and the Global WASH practice to ensure these catalytic finance mechanisms are effectively implemented, addressing the significant financing gap and market failures in Nigeria's sanitation sector. The goal is to attract private investment, particularly in underserved and climate-vulnerable urban areas, by developing bankable projects and viable business models.
Responsibilities
The consultant will be responsible for developing and implementing strategies to mobilize catalytic finance for the WASH sector in Nigeria. This includes preparing the Sanitation Programme Facility (SPF) by designing mechanisms that combine donor guarantees with grant-funded technical assistance to attract commercial financing. The role involves working closely with the UNICEF Nigeria Country Office and other relevant UNICEF global units, such as the WASH Innovation Hub and the Global WASH practice, to ensure the effective unlocking of catalytic finance for sanitation. Key tasks include analyzing the sanitation market, identifying financing gaps and opportunities, and developing bankable projects and viable business models. The consultant will also engage with stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector actors, and international financial institutions, to foster partnerships and facilitate investment. Furthermore, the consultant will support the translation of complex financial concepts into accessible language for various audiences and contribute to the overall strategic direction of UNICEF's WASH finance initiatives in Nigeria.
Work Experience
At least 10 years of relevant finance experience, with a strong understanding of impact investing, sustainable, or blended finance. Minimum 2 years of experience working with or supporting international development organizations or IFIs. Minimum 2 years of experience working in Nigeria is required.
Skills
Financial analysis, Project management, Financial modeling, Impact investing, Sustainable finance, Blended finance, International development finance, WASH sector finance, Proposal development, Stakeholder engagement, Communication, Understanding of IFIs