VisionFund Micro Finance Institution (S.C) operates under Proclamation No. 40/96 to provide financial services to the productive poor in both rural and urban areas of Ethiopia. Currently, VisionFund is active in four regional states across the country. We are seeking qualified candidates to join our team for the following positions:
Position 1: Manager, Partnership Division
Job Summary: The Partnership Division Manager is responsible for overseeing the relationships between VisionFund Micro Finance Institution (VFMFI) and external entities. This role involves working with vendors, suppliers, contractors, and other third parties to ensure mutual benefit. Key responsibilities include developing new partnerships, expanding existing ones, researching potential partners, creating proposals, and negotiating terms.
Specific Duties and Responsibilities:
- Develop strategic plans with partners to ensure effective communication and collaboration.
- Manage partner relationships to ensure satisfaction and performance.
- Review contracts to ensure compliance with legal requirements.
- Handle partner relations and communications, including contract negotiations, conflict management, and termination procedures when necessary.
- Identify and develop new business opportunities through strategic alliances.
- Coordinate with legal staff to establish contracts and agreements with partners.
- Manage key partnership action plans and identify new business and revenue-generating opportunities.
- Support partner deal-making, cross-functional planning, relationship management, and provide analytical insights.
- Prepare and deliver compelling pitch materials tailored to corporate partners, showcasing VisionFund’s value proposition.
- Work with senior leadership to develop and write program concepts, proposals, and reports.
- Lead complex negotiations with strategic partners.
- Develop and execute strategies and business plans with partners to drive user growth and revenue.
- Manage acknowledgment, reporting, and stewardship for contracts and partnership agreements.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor.
Education, Experience, and Skills:
- MBA/MA/BA degree in Economics, Management, Marketing, Accounting, or related fields.
- Minimum of 7/9 years of relevant work experience in partnership development or strategic partnerships, with at least 3 years in a senior position, preferably in MFI/Banks.
Technical and Other Skills:
- Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skills.
- Interest in technology and industry fluency preferred.
- Creative, flexible, and solution-oriented.
- Ability to navigate ambiguous situations and develop repeatable processes.
- Highly motivated and inspired by VisionFund’s mission.
- Ability to quickly synthesize complex ideas, align them with business priorities, and devise actionable strategies.
- Data-driven and results-focused.
Terms of Employment: Permanent
Salary & Benefits: Attractive with benefit packages
Closing Date: July 23, 2024
Position 2: Senior Research and Development Officer
Job Summary: The Senior Research and Development Officer oversees and manages the organization’s research and development activities, driving innovation, new product development, and process improvement. Responsibilities include conducting research, developing new products or processes, and collaborating with cross-functional teams.
Specific Duties and Responsibilities:
- Conduct research to identify new product ideas.
- Gather and analyze data to support R&D initiatives.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop or improve products.
- Design and implement experiments or tests to validate concepts.
- Develop and document technical specifications and reports.
- Stay updated with industry trends, scientific advancements, and competitive landscape.
- Manage R&D projects, including timelines, resources, and budgets.
- Ensure compliance with regulations and standards related to R&D activities.
- Present findings, progress updates, and proposals to management or stakeholders.
- Organize and analyze research data to extract meaningful insights.
- Prepare detailed technical reports, research papers, or project documentation.
- Plan, coordinate, and monitor R&D projects to ensure they meet budget, timelines, and quality standards.
- Keep up with industry trends and advancements to drive innovation and maintain a competitive edge.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor.
Education, Experience, and Skills:
- Minimum BA Degree in Economics, Management, Marketing, Accounting, or related fields.
- Minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience, preferably in MFI/Banks.
Technical and Other Skills:
- Proficiency in English.
- Knowledge of participatory methodologies and strong communication skills.
- Computer literacy and report writing skills.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Familiarity with relevant R&D tools, software, and techniques.
Terms of Employment: Permanent
Salary & Benefits: Attractive with benefit packages
Closing Date: July 23, 2024
Place of Work: Head Office, Addis Ababa
How to Apply: Candidates who meet the above requirements can send their application letter, updated curriculum vitae with names and addresses of up to 3 references, and non-returnable copies of credentials to VFE_Vacancy@wvi.org.
Women applicants are highly encouraged to apply!
Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment.
