General

The Microfinance Specialist will report directly to the National Project Manager and will provide technical assistance and advisory services in designing and implementing the microfinance component of the IARCDSP.

He/She shall work in coordination with the Italian MF Specialist and provide guidance to DAR AED Coordinators, Development Facilitators, and partner organization.

Scope of Services

The specific duties include but not limited to the following:

1. Review the financing and credit system and needs in the project areas, recommend appropriate microfinance delivery schemes, and prepare the guidelines for the implementation of the microfinance subcomponent of the AED.
2. Conduct credit review as baseline before the implementation of the microfinance component and review the program and achievement on the third year of project implementation;
3. Prepare microfinance investment plan jointly with Italian MF specialist and DAR based on submitted and approved project proposals with targeted beneficiaries, both globally and on annual basis (with confirmed shortlist of subprojects and indicative budgetary requirements based on the needs identified in the ARCDPs);
4. Prepare evaluation and selection criteria on the approvals of sub-project proposals under AED component submitted for microfinance scheme/assistance;
5. Evaluate the financial and economic feasibility of sub-projects submitted for financing under the microfinance component of AED;
6. Provide technical guidance to DAR AED Coordinators in evaluatingmicrofinance partner institutions FO’s financial management capability to undertake microlending activities to support agricultural enterprise and livelihood development of FBs in the ARCs;
7. Assist the NC in packaging projects for presentation and approval of the subproject approval committee and the PEC;
8. Review and assist in the preparation of the microfinance subcomponent as input annual work and financial plans, quarterly progress reports and financial status and annual budget proposals;
9. Conduct capacity building and technical skills enhancement programs for POs/FOs/cooperatives in managing microfinance funds and in preparation of systems and policies for microlending;
10. Conduct monitoring and evaluation of the progress and results of the subprojects funded under the microfinance scheme and provide regular reports to the NPLO and PMU; and
11. Coordinate with DAR-BARBD and DA-IMAP/AMAS in the selection, review, approval and monitoring of subprojects covered by the microfinance program.

Core Competencies

1. Proven expertise in microfinance operations, policies and implementing arrangement in the delivery of microfinance services;
2. Experience in the preparation and/or implementation of microfinance preferably in the rural sector;
3. Ability to analyze and give sound advice to solve financing and financial management issues;
4. Excellent communication skills coordination capability, interpersonal and teamwork abilities;
5. Ability to work cohesively with senior officials and international consultants; and
6. Knowledge of social, economic and cultural issues affecting the implementation of the Agrarian Reform Program in the Philippines.

Qualifications, Skills and Professional Experience

1. At least 3 years professional experience as a microfinance specialist or credit specialist of similar rural development projects;
2. Should have strong professional background in economic and financial management systems, business plan preparation and conduct of socio-economic studies;and
3. Bachelor’s Degree in finance, accounting economics, and development management or in related fields of study.

Engagement

The Microfinance Specialist will be engaged in 11 months (6 months on the first year, 3 months on the 2nd year and in 2 months on the third year).