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Project Manager for Microfinance Projects PlaNet Finance

About the Organization:
Founded in October 1998, PlaNet Finance (PF) Group’s mission aims to alleviate poverty by contributing to the development of the microfinance sector. It supports MFIs by providing them with technical assistance services in terms of capacity building and financing to facilitate their growth. PF also works with the private sector (banks and financial institutions), international agencies and governments to facilitate the development of an efficient and mainstream microfinance sector.

Background:
PlaNet Finance is developing a Micro and SME lending project with one of the key players of that field in South Africa. The project aims to assess the local market trends and analyze optimal location for the development of a lending program for microentrepreneurs. This includes the development of a sound financial model and the implementation of an expansion plan and its corresponding roll-out.

About the Job:
PlaNet Finance is seeking an experienced Project Manager with relevant work experience, especially in the field of microfinance and knowledge in small enterprises lending. The Project Manager will be in charge of running the technical assistance program and providing managerial and technical support. The current open position is based in South Africa: Johannesburg. The Project Manager must be available 8 to 12 months, from the end of April or the beginning of May.

Tasks and Responsibilities:


•Marketing, business development and product design: Definition of target groups, clients segments, market analysis; evaluation of a specific marketing strategy, channel and methodology for each segment; development of a multi-products offering strategy in MSME lending; business development and strategic marketing of the organization;
•Operations management: Product design, design of processes and systems adaptation: Zoning methodologies, technology enhancements, etc.; drafting of operations processes and guidelines: including risk acceptance and pricing; support the implementation and improvement of operations policies and procedures; maximize the effectiveness and efficiency of branch operations and distribution network; oversee branch operations, business development (sales) and credit controls; follow up the portfolio during the pilot phase; provide training, assistance and monitoring to field agents and branch managers;
•HR management: Contribute to the identification, recruitment and training/coaching of loan officers and branch managers; development of follow up procedures and incentive systems for loan officers and branch managers; manage the team of consultants and technical Assistants (7 to 10 people);
•Business intelligence and MIS specification: Coordinate the analysis of the functional adequacy of existing MIS; design of business intelligence reports;
•Risk management and scoring.

Qualifications:


•Must have prior project and staff management experience in addition to having banking and microfinance background. S/he must have a genuine passion and enthusiasm for the microfinance sector and a commitment to our poverty alleviation mission;
•A track record in managing a financial institution servicing the MSME sector or involvement at a senior level in the provision of advisory services to MFIs;
•Deep knowledge in Micro and SME Banking and financial sector in developing countries;
•5 to 10 years of direct experience in MSME Operations, strong and proven experience in MSME appraisal and lending methodologies;
•Demonstrated experience and success developing new products and processes for MSMEs;
•Deep knowledge in project management; focused on quality and client-satisfaction, with the capacity to ask the right questions, identify solutions and implement them; detail-oriented, focused and organized; able to anticipate, prioritize and manage tasks in a fast changing environment;
•Experiences in Africa, and particularly South Africa, are a plus;
•Native English speaker with oral and written communication skills and a demonstrated ability to create persuasive, clear and concise communications to different publics. Knowledge of local South African languages is a plus. French and or Spanish speaker is a plus.

How to Apply:
Interested candidates can send their resume and cover letter to:
Adrien Champey & Clémence Metz
recrut at planetfinance.org