Field Agents for Financial Literacy and VSLA Promotion (2)

ABOUT FIRST CONSULT

First Consult is a leading economic development consulting firm implementing projects in Ethiopia. Founded in 2006, First Consult (FC) has grown to design and implement projects across the agriculture, manufacturing, and service sectors. Our multidisciplinary teams combine a capacity to execute with clarity of the local context. As a result, we have delivered at-scale real impact in terms of jobs & wealth creation, business formation & growth, and investment attraction & mobilization.

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

ER-CAP is a 5-year project by Mercy Corps, DRC, and First Consult Development. It aims to improve the economic adaptation, protection, and recovery of conflict-affected populations in three regions: Afar (Abaala), Tigray (Mekelle), and Amhara (Woldiya). The program will benefit 43,540 individuals, focusing on IDPs, returnee women, youth and marginalized groups. It uses a conflict-sensitive, systems-strengthening, climate-smart and inclusive approach to enhance systems that support economic recovery. The expected outcomes include resilient livelihoods, improved access to financial products and services, and enhanced capacity to mitigate protection risks.

ER-CAP aims to improve the economic condition of conflict-affected communities by strengthening MSMEs, improving crop and livestock value chains, and providing income-generating opportunities. It includes providing affordable financial products and technology through partnerships with financial service providers, conducting GESI dialogues, and identifying business ideas for economic activities in displacement settings.

Location of the Position: Field Agents for Financial Literacy and VSLA Promotion will be based in Afar (Abaala) and Tigray (Mekelle).

POSITION SUMMARY

As a Field Agent for Financial Literacy and VSLA Promotion, you will play a critical role in the program’s mission to enhance the economic condition of conflict-affected communities. Your primary responsibility will be to engage directly with the community, delivering financial literacy training and promoting the establishment and growth of Village Saving and Loan Associations (VSLAs). Through your efforts, you will empower individuals and MSMEs by providing them with the necessary knowledge and skills to make informed financial decisions and access affordable financial products and services. This position offers an opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of those living in conflict-affected areas, fostering economic resilience and promoting financial inclusion.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Financial Literacy Training: Conduct interactive and engaging financial literacy sessions for community members, MSMEs, and VSLA members, covering topics such as budgeting, savings, credit management, and basic financial planning.
• VSLA Promotion: Champion the establishment and growth of Village Saving and Loan Associations (VSLAs) within the community, providing guidance and support to community members interested in forming and managing VSLAs.
• Community Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with community members, local leaders, and relevant stakeholders to foster trust, identify needs, and promote participation in financial literacy programs and VSLA initiatives.
• Capacity Building: Provide ongoing training and mentoring to VSLA members, assisting them in developing effective governance structures, financial management skills, and record-keeping practices.
• Monitoring and Evaluation: Collect data and feedback to monitor the impact of financial literacy training and VSLA activities, ensuring program effectiveness and identifying areas for improvement.
• Reporting: Prepare regular progress reports, documenting activities, achievements, challenges, and lessons learned, to keep program stakeholders informed and contribute to program evaluation and improvement.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

The Field Agents for Financial Literacy and VSLA Promotion reports directly to the Access to Finance Lead (Line Manager)

• Minimum of BA degree in business, finance, economics, or a related field is desirable.
• Proven experience in delivering financial literacy training or community development programs, preferably in conflict-affected or rural areas.
• Familiarity with Village Saving and Loan Associations (VSLAs) or similar community-based financial service providers is highly advantageous.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage and connect with diverse community members.
• Ability to deliver training sessions in an interactive and participatory manner, adapting content to the specific needs and context of the community.
• Empathy and cultural sensitivity to effectively work within a conflict-affected community.
• Proficiency in local languages spoken in the community is preferred.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
•  Willingness to travel and spend significant time in remote and challenging environments.
• Commitment to the program’s mission and values, with a passion for promoting financial inclusion and economic empowerment.