Senior Research Associate-Agribusiness and Investment

About the position

The Alliance of Bioversity and CIAT is seeking a motivated and dynamic individual to join our team as a Senior Research Associate for the UU CFSA and AICCRA projects.

Key duties & responsibilities

Investment Readiness Assessment:

Through the process of a diagnostics, evaluate the readiness of agribusinesses for investment by assessing their financial documentation, business plans, and overall financial health.
Identify gaps in financial preparedness and provide recommendations for improvement.

Financial Research and Analysis:

Conduct in-depth financial analysis of participating agribusinesses, including profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements.
Assess financial risks and opportunities, considering market dynamics, industry benchmarks, and sustainable business practices.

Financial Modeling:

Develop and maintain financial models to simulate various scenarios and forecast the financial performance of agribusinesses.
Assist entrepreneurs in understanding the financial implications of different business strategies.

Fundraising Research and Support:

Conduct research on the fundraising landscape for capital providers in the sector and map appropriate funding partners in grants, debt and equity for the portfolio of agribusinesses.
Collaborate with agribusinesses to prepare compelling financial narratives and presentations for potential investors.
Provide guidance on structuring investment deals, valuations, and negotiating financial terms.
Support agribusinesses in developing effective fundraising strategies aligned with their financial goals.

Capacity Building:

Offer training and capacity-building sessions to enhance the financial literacy of agribusiness owners and management teams.
Provide ongoing support and mentorship to strengthen financial management practices within the cohort.

Risk Management:

Identify financial risks that may impact agribusiness sustainability and work with entrepreneurs to develop mitigation strategies.
Stay informed about industry trends and regulatory changes that could affect financial stability.

Collaboration with Investors:

Facilitate communication between agribusinesses and potential investors to streamline due diligence processes.
Cultivate relationships with impact investors, financial institutions, and other stakeholders to expand funding opportunities.

Market Research Analysis

Conduct comprehensive market research to identify trends, competitive landscapes, and potential opportunities or challenges in support agribusinesses in the cohort.
Integrate market insights into financial assessments and strategies to enhance business competitiveness.

Continuous Improvement:

Contribute insights and feedback to refine the accelerator program’s financial support mechanisms.
Stay abreast of evolving financial best practices and incorporate innovative approaches to enhance program effectiveness.
The Senior Research Associate will play a pivotal role in equipping agribusiness

Requirements

Degree in Economics, Finance or Business Administration.
Minimum 3 years working experience in sustainable finance, climate finance, impact investing and/or venture capital.
Excellent financial modelling and research skills.
Sound experience working with asset owners, asset managers, corporates, public and private donors etc.
Experience working in East and Southern Africa
Sound experience providing hands-on support to businesses, and in particular agribusinesses. Experience in a startup, SME or entrepreneur environment is an advantage.
Solid knowledge of innovative financial instruments and in particular sustainable land use and climate smart food systems.
Good understanding of food systems and climate related challenges in developing countries, and how environmental and social issues relate to business risks and opportunities.
Intellectually curious and business-driven to deliver innovative and high impact results to clients.
Critical thinker able to analyze complex information and produce high quality work products in an easy-to-understand manner.
Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills.
Ability to work both independently and in a team-oriented, collaborative and decentralized environment, and operate under tight deadlines.
Solid knowledge of Microsoft Office, with advanced Power Point/presentation skills.
Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.

Applications MUST include reference number REF : 103558 Senior Research Associate  as the position applied for. Cover letter and CV should be saved as one document using the candidate’s last name, first name for ease of sorting. The Alliance collects and process personal data in accordance with applicable data protection laws.Applications closing date:25 th March 2024

Apply via :

al.zohorecruit.eu