Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership & OversightProvide overall strategic direction for the Access to Finance (A2F) component, ensuring it contributes to the project’s goal of improving food and nutrition, security and resilience.Lead the design and implementation of inclusive finance strategies that align with SNV’s market-based approach and the CDRD project objectives.Act as the primary technical advisor on financial inclusion, guiding county teams and partners on best practices and innovations in rural financeInclusive Finance DevelopmentConduct market assessments to identify gaps and opportunities for financial services within targeted value chains (cereals, fruits, vegetables).Develop and implement mechanisms to strengthen linkages between financial institutions (MFIs, banks, SACCOs) and value chain actors, including producer groups, SMEs, and agribusinesses.Promote and pilot innovative financial products such as savings schemes, microcredit, and digital finance solutions tailored to rural households, women, and youth.Planning, Budgeting & Performance MonitoringPrepare detailed annual work plans and budgets for the A2F component, ensuring efficient resource allocation.Establish monitoring systems to track progress against targets, including outreach, loan uptake, repayment rates, and gender/youth inclusion.Produce timely and accurate reports for internal and donor requirements, highlighting successes, challenges, and lessons learned.Innovation Fund SupportLead the technical and financial appraisal of business plan proposals submitted by SMEs and producer organizations seeking support through the Innovation Fund.Provide coaching and capacity-building to partners and SMEs on financial literacy, business planning, and risk management.Develop practical tools and templates to strengthen financial management and sustainability of supported enterprises.Gender & Youth InclusionEnsure that all financial solutions and interventions actively promote participation of women and youth, addressing barriers such as collateral requirements and financial literacy gaps.Design targeted initiatives (e.g., youth entrepreneurship programs, women-led savings groups) to enhance inclusivity in access to finance.Investment Climate ImprovementEngage with stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector actors, and development partners, to advocate for policies and practices that improve the agricultural investment climate.Facilitate dialogues and partnerships that encourage financial institutions to expand services to rural and underserved markets.Collaboration & IntegrationWork closely with other thematic leads in the CDRD project—nutrition, youth employment, gender, and inclusive value chain development—to ensure integrated approaches and maximize impact.Represent SNV in national and regional platforms on financial inclusion, sharing insights and building strategic partnerships. 
