National Expert on Access to Finance

Organizational Context

The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) promotes inclusive and sustainable industrial development (ISID) in Member States, aligning with the 2030 Agenda and SDGs. UNIDO's mandate is recognized in SDG-9. The organization focuses on areas like renewable energy, sustainable access, climate action, and fostering innovation, digitalization, and private sector investment. UNIDO operates through technical cooperation, research, normative functions, and partnerships, with its Directorate of SDG Innovation and Economic Transformation (IET) driving new services in areas such as finance, sustainability standards, and climate technology.

Job Purpose

To unlock public and private financing for youth- and women-led SMEs in Tunisia, strengthening the financing ecosystem and business support organizations (BSOs) to enable investment in high-impact projects aligned with the Impact Fund and regional development priorities. The role contributes to catalyzing inclusive regional development, creating jobs, and advancing Tunisia's transition to a green economy.

Responsibilities

Coordinate project implementation, including work plans, budgets, and activities, ensuring quality control and monitoring. Liaise with government and stakeholders, provide updates, and troubleshoot issues. Organize briefings and debriefings. Coordinate consultant recruitment and procurement processes. Take initiative to enhance program success through partnerships. Contribute to monitoring, evaluation, and reporting activities, including financial monitoring and preparing reports. Maintain networks and partnerships with national institutions, private sector, and UN project partners. Coordinate dissemination of project knowledge and best practices.

Work Experience

Minimum of seven years of professional experience in coordinating development/technical cooperation programs/projects at the national level, preferably in development finance, access to finance, or SME support. Strong knowledge of Tunisia's economic context, financial ecosystem, SME ecosystem, and/or gender/youth inclusion strategies. Experience in stakeholder engagement and coordination with government, private sector, and international organizations is required. Desirable: Proficiency in ERP systems and UN/donor financial procedures, expertise in financial matters (financing instruments, pipeline development, matchmaking, financial structuring, investment readiness support), experience evaluating country needs, and knowledge of development agencies and donor communities.

Skills

Project coordination, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation. Stakeholder engagement and partnership building. Financial analysis and advisory. Understanding of SME development and access to finance. Knowledge of Tunisia's economic and financial landscape. Report writing and communication.

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