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Renewable Energy Business Planning Consultant (AFRICA)

FINCA International, one of the world's leading microfinance institutions, provides financial services to more than 900,000 clients through 21 wholly-owned and operated subsidiaries in Africa, Eurasia, Latin America and the Greater Middle East.

FINCA International seeks the services of a consultant to conduct a feasibility assessment and business plan to launch a large-scale micro-energy business in Uganda and surrounding countries. FINCA, through its subsidiary in Uganda, currently provides loans to consumers for purchase of solar energy systems for home and business use and earns a commission from the sale of solar lanterns.

FINCA is considering forming a separate entity to undertake the sales and distribution of renewable energy products, with FINCA subsidiaries supplying the consumer financing. This new venture would potentially set up micro-franchises and engage in other activities to strengthen the overall supply and distribution of renewable energy products in the market, while addressing the broad-based needs of consumers. The business planning expert will conduct a market study and feasibility assessment in Uganda to determine if a new venture is viable. If a new venture is not feasible, the expert will advise on an alternative business model for reaching maximum scale.

The focus of this business planning activity will be Uganda, but the goal of the business plan is to develop a new venture that may service multiple subsidiaries in the region. The consultant will initially conduct business planning over a 2-4 month period, and would ideally be willing extend their assignment with FINCA for purposes of implementation. FINCA plans to start business planning as soon as possible, but no later than April 2012.

Main activities:

  • Conduct a customer demand assessment and segmentation

  • Develop a strategy for supply, distribution, and sales

  • Conduct a competitive assessment and partner survey

  • Develop a staffing and organization plan

  • Develop financial projections to determine cost and financial sustainability

Deliverables:

  • Planning deliverables

    • Outline of business plan

    • Detailed work plan and timeline

    • List of suppliers/other organizations to be contacted (within and outside of Uganda)

    • Resources required from FINCA in order to 1) conduct market research within the FINCA client base, and 2) speak with current supplier partners.

  • Interim Deliverables

    • Market research results review

    • Draft business plan with initial recommendations

    • Draft financial projections

  • Final deliverables

    • A business plan document that provides a clear recommendation on which model to pursue, supported by concrete evidence and market analysis. The business plan should include a roadmap for how to implement, covering each of the 5 areas above.

    • Investment required and financial projections.

    • Organizational chart and staffing plan.

    • Raw and synthesized market research data on client product preference and willingness to pay.

FINCA ideally seeks a candidate who would be able to conduct an initial business planning activity over 2-4 months, and also continue on a longer term engagement (1-2 years) in order to implement the new venture. The candidate should have the following profile:

  • Knowledge and Education

    • Advanced Degree in relevant field (banking, business, finance).

  • Professional Skills

    1. Commercial/entrepreneurial orientation, market assessment and strategic planning.

    2. Supply chain management/ management of sales and distribution channels.

    3. Ability to work with cross-functional teams.

    4. Ability to operate in remote environments.

    5. Ability to interface with clients and staff.

    6. Seasoned consultant or experienced individual with a background in the design and launch of new ventures (see below).

  • Experience

    1. 7-10 years of relevant work experience.

    2. Experience in setting up new ventures to offer products and services targeted at the bottom of the pyramid.

    3. Familiarity with microfinance (preferred, not required).

    4. Expertise in launching and operating scaled renewable energy initiatives, particularly in Africa.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

Individuals or organizations may apply for this consulting assignment. Individuals should submit their CVs, dates of availability, as well as their daily rate. Organizations must submit a proposal with pricing information, dates of availability, and CVs of consultants that would be working on this initiative. All information should be sent directly to sonali.rohatgi@finca.org


Renewable Energy Business Planning Consultant (AFRICA)