About the role

Over the years, AECF has provided catalytic capital and technical assistance to microfinance institutions (MFIs) and witnessed them extend their portfolios to risky customer segments, specifically women and youth-owned micro and small businesses. We are launching a microfinance institution’s Working Capital Facility to enhance MFIs’ access to local currency facilities to solve financial inclusion for MSMEs. This initiative will initially focus on the Kenyan market, with aspirations to go regional.

We seek a Credit Manager who will play a key role in evaluating the creditworthiness of MFIs and ensuring that lending operations align with the fund’s strategic objectives. This position requires strong analytical skills, experience in credit risk management, and the ability to work collaboratively with the Head of Investments—MFIs.

This role will report to the Chief Executive Officer.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the operationalization of the microfinance working capital facility.
• Concretize the investment thesis and establish systems, structures, policies, and procedures to support the implementation of the MFI Working capital facility.
• Develop and implement strategic investment plans to enhance the impact and efficiency of AECF’s MFI lending operations.
• Design and structure new investment products tailored to the needs of MFIs, including detailed implementation plans and documentation.
• Formulate a comprehensive investment strategy to attract capital for the lending facility.
• Source and evaluate investment opportunities within the MFI sector.
• Oversee deal origination, due diligence, structuring, and negotiation while ensuring alignment with MFI needs and risk profiles.
• Lead transaction teams, managing cross-departmental efforts to close deals effectively.
• Take responsibility for transaction documentation and fund disbursements, ensuring the successful execution of investment agreements.
• Lead the development of financial models and tools for evaluating MFI performance and investment viability.
• Ensure continuous improvement and best practices in financial analysis and modeling for investment decision-making.
• Monitor financial markets and sector trends to inform investment strategies and assess MFI performance.
• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the impact and success of the lending facility.
• Prepare regular reports for the board and management on the facility’s performance, risk assessments, and strategic initiatives.
• Assess and enhance the investment readiness of MFI portfolio companies, providing technical assistance and support for their growth.
• Facilitate investment readiness programs, guiding MFIs through the preparation, valuation, and negotiation processes.
• Establish relationships with external stakeholders, including funders, regulatory bodies, and industry actors, leveraging AECF’s experience and track record.

Suitable candidates should:

• Possess a bachelor’s degree in business, commerce, finance, or a related field. A Master’s degree in business administration or finance will be an added advantage.
• Have professional certification such as CFA or equivalent.
• Have a minimum of 10 years of experience in investment management, including sourcing, structuring, and managing investments in the financial sector.
• Have a proven track record of working with MFIs or in the microfinance sector, with a strong understanding of their financial and operational needs.
• Demonstrate expertise in financial analysis, modeling, and risk evaluation, with the ability to manage complex financial instruments.
• Have exceptional negotiation, communication, and presentation skills, with proficiency in English.
• Possess strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a strategic mindset and capacity to make informed decisions.