Near East Foundation

Job Announcement

Title:  Business Manager 

Location: Amman

Reporting to:  Executive Director , Amman Jordan

Expected starting date:  Nov 1^St 2024

“The Near East Foundation (NEF) Regional/Siraj Financial Services (SFS) are recruiting a Business Manager to be based in Amman, Jordan. This position will initially be under an NEF contract, seconded to SFS. Once SFS’s registration in Jordan is finalized, the candidate will transition to an SFS contract”. For over 100 years, the Near East Foundation  has worked to build more sustainable, prosperous, and inclusive communities in the Middle East, Caucasus, and Africa through education, governance, and economic development initiatives. Working through a network of country offices and local partners, NEF has operations in ten countries: Armenia, Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq, Mali, Morocco, Palestine, Sudan, South Sudan, and Syria. Its programs are organized around three themes: Inclusive Economic Development, Climate-resilient Development, and Stabilization and Peacebuilding.

SFS Background

Siraj Financial Services (SFS), registered in Belgium with a regional office in Amman, is committed to driving sustainable economic growth in Northern Syria by empowering local entrepreneurs. Building on NEF's successful revolving credit fund pilot, which provided small loans to entrepreneurs in Ar-Raqqa, Deir Ez-Zor, and Al-Hasakeh, SFS is advancing this initiative by commercializing the model and expanding its reach. Targeting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), we offer micro-loans and development loans alongside non-financial services such as business development training, coaching, and market facilitation. Our focus is on supporting women, youth, and vulnerable groups, prioritizing high-value sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, services, and trade to ensure their active participation in the region's economic development. 

Position Description

The Business Manager at Siraj Financial Services (SFS) is responsible for leading and managing the operational and strategic activities of the organization within the microfinance sector. This role involves overseeing branch operations, developing and executing business strategies, and ensuring that business objectives are met. The Business Manager will play a pivotal role in expanding SFS's market presence, enhancing financial performance, and driving sustainable growth. Additionally, the Business Manager is tasked with building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, stakeholders, and the community, ensuring that SFS continues to empower local entrepreneurs and contribute to the economic development of Northern Syria.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute strategies and plans to meet organizational goals, including identifying opportunities for market expansion, new products, and strategic partnerships.
• Collaborate with senior management to define business objectives and performance targets.
• Oversee branch operations to ensure service delivery, operational excellence, and compliance with internal policies and industry regulations.
• Monitor branch performance metrics, including loan disbursement, client acquisition, and repayment rates, addressing any issues as they arise.
• Build strong client relationships, implement strategies to enhance retention and loyalty, and address any client issues or complaints promptly.
• Develop methodologies to improve workflows and ensure all branch activities align with project timelines and work plans.
• Prepare and analyze performance reports, including default reports, and provide recommendations to the Executive Director.
• Collaborate with branch managers on stakeholder engagement with cooperatives, CBOs, and administrative entities.
• Oversee the preparation and execution of marketing strategies, and ensure timely report submissions from departments and branch teams.
• Assess opportunities for new branches, markets, and products, and manage the execution of periodic meetings, audits, and other assigned tasks.

Operate within the functional and financial authority matrix defined in the job description.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, banking, accounting, business administration, economics, and/or a master’s degree is preferred and/or professional certificate.
• Minimum of 8-12 years of experience in business management, with at least 5 years in a leadership role within the microfinance or financial services industry. Financial Technology is preferred.
• Strong knowledge of business management principles, financial analysis, and market strategy. Proficiency in business analytics and relevant software.
• In-depth understanding of microfinance operations, financial products, and client needs within the sector.
• Proven experience in leading and developing high-performing teams and driving business growth.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with clients, staff, and stakeholders at all levels.
• Demonstrated ability to plan, track, and communicate project progress using a variety of tools including, Gantt charts, flow charts, and software packages such as Microsoft™ Office.
• Experience working with international non-governmental organizations.
• Fluency in spoken/ written Arabic and English required.

NEF will accept a rolling application until the position is filled. Review of application will begin on September 22, 2024. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

To apply:

Please apply by submitting the following documents to https://neareast.bamboohr.com/careers/401?source=aWQ9MTk%3D :

• Cover letter outlining relevant experience and skills based on the requirements outlined above 
• Curriculum Vitae
• List of three references (including one from current, or most recent, employer)

Please note only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to familiarize themselves with the Near East Foundation by visiting the NEF website at www.neareast.org.

The Near East Foundation promotes Equal Employment Opportunities for all applicants seeking employment and NEF employees.

Pre-employment Checks

Any employment with the Near East Foundation will be subject to the following checks prior to start date:

• A satisfactory Restricted Party Screening.
• Receipt of satisfactory references.
• Workplace Verification Check