Investment Analyst ( MSME Loans and Impact Funds) – Fanisi HR

Our client is a leading finance, business support, and knowledge facility dedicated to unleashing the transformative potential of the creative economy sector in Africa.  They seek to hire an Investment Analyst who will play a crucial role in supporting the disbursement and collection of impact funds aimed at improving financial inclusion and economic empowerment in Urban and peri-urban communities. This includes managing a specialized portfolio of loans to Micro , Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs), ensuring alignment with the program’s objectives, and achieving measurable social impacts.

Key Responsibilities

1. Due Diligence and Evaluation

• Conduct thorough due diligence on potential financial service providers (FSPs) and SME loan applicants, including financial analysis, risk assessment, and evaluation of their track record.
• Prepare detailed reports and recommendations for the Investment Director and the investment committee.

2. SME Loan Management

• Assist in managing the MSME loan portfolio
• Evaluate MSME eligibility
• Support the Investment Director in overseeing the MSME window to ensure alignment with  program objectives.

3. Loan Disbursement

• Assist in the preparation and review of loan agreements and documentation.
• Coordinate with FSPs (financial service providers) and MSMEs to ensure timely and accurate disbursement of funds to the beneficiaries and participants.
• Monitor the use of funds to ensure compliance with the terms of the agreements and contracts.

4. Impact Assessment

• Develop and implement metrics to evaluate the social and financial impact of disbursed funds.
• Collect and analyze data on the effectiveness of the funds in achieving the desired impact, particularly focusing on youth employment, gender, location and others as per program guidelines.
• Prepare impact reports for internal and external stakeholders.

5. Collections and Risk Management

• Monitor loan repayment schedules and track payments.
• Identify and address early signs of repayment issues to mitigate risks.
• Develop and implement strategies for effective collections and manage default cases.

6. Reporting and Documentation

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all disbursements and collections.
• Prepare regular financial and impact reports for review by the Investment Director and other stakeholders.
• Assist in the preparation of presentations and reports for the investment committee and external partners.

7. Stakeholder Engagement

• Work closely with FSPs, MSMEs, beneficiaries, and other stakeholders to ensure smooth operations and communication.
• Conduct field visits to peri-urban communities to gather firsthand insights and feedback.

8. Continuous Improvement

• Identify areas for improvement in the disbursement and collection processes.
• Recommend and implement process enhancements to improve efficiency and impact.

Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master’s degree or relevant certifications is a plus.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in investment analysis, financial services or impact investing.
• Experience in microfinance, SME lending, or working with peri-urban communities is highly desirable.

• Strong analytical and financial modeling skills.
• Proficiency in using financial analysis software and tools.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Ability to travel to peri-urban communities as needed.

Candidates who meet the required specifications and are enthusiastic about the role are invited to submit their applications to Fanisi HR Solutions via careers@fanisi.net using “Investment Analyst – MSME Loans and Impact Funds” in the email subject line before Friday 9th August 2024. Screening is on a rolling basis. Only the shortlisted candidates will be contacted.