Business Origination Advisor – DFCD (Francophone West Africa)

SNV is seeking an experienced and entrepreneurial Business Origination Advisor to support the implementation of the Dutch Fund for Climate and Development (DFCD) in Francophone West Africa. This position is based in Cotonou, Benin, with a regional scope covering Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, and Benin.

The successful candidate will play a key role in identifying and supporting high-potential, climate-resilient investments in sectors such as sustainable agriculture, water, and ecosystem protection. You will work closely with local businesses, financial institutions, and DFCD consortium partners to unlock innovative financing opportunities that strengthen the resilience of communities and ecosystems most affected by climate change.

Company Description

SNV Netherlands Development Organization

SNV is an international not-for-profit development organization established in 1965 in the Netherlands. We operate in more than 22 countries across Africa and Asia. SNV focuses on enhancing the resourcefulness of development actors by building local capacities, improving performance and services, strengthening governance systems, creating access for excluded groups, and enabling markets to work for low-income people.

Our global team of advisors brings specialized expertise in Agriculture, Energy, and Water to improve the health and livelihoods of millions, particularly the poor and marginalized. Gender equality and climate change are cross-cutting themes in all our interventions. We collaborate closely with national and local governments, civil society, cooperatives, and the private sector to drive lasting and inclusive change.

About the DFCD

The Dutch Fund for Climate and Development (DFCD) is a €440 million blended finance facility funded by the Dutch government and managed by a consortium of four partners: FMO, WWF Netherlands, Climate Fund Managers (CFM), and SNV. The DFCD provides early-stage support through technical assistance to enable projects to access catalytic capital and scale climate-resilient business models.

Learn more: www.thedfcd.com

The Business Origination Advisor (BOA) will lead the identification, development, and management of high-potential climate-resilient investment opportunities in Francophone West Africa under the DFCD Origination Facility. The role focuses on both pipeline development and technical support to prepare businesses and financial institutions for investment readiness.

1. Pipeline Development & Origination

• Identify and assess promising climate-resilient businesses, cooperatives, and financial institutions aligned with DFCD’s mandate (agriculture, water, ecosystems).
• Engage early with potential investees and partners to develop pre-intake forms and conduct preliminary climate and financial assessments.
• Build strong networks across the private sector, donor community, and national stakeholders to grow DFCD’s investment pipeline.
• Represent DFCD at relevant events to enhance visibility and partnerships in the region.

2. Financial Analysis & Investment Readiness

• Conduct in-depth financial analysis of SMEs and financial institutions, including review of historicals, cash flows, business models, and capital needs.
• Support investees in strengthening their business plans and investment cases, in collaboration with technical consultants.
• Prepare intake proposals, technical assistance (TA) requests, and investment memos for the DFCD Investment Committee.
• Contribute to structuring blended finance and de-risking strategies in coordination with DFCD consortium partners.

3. Pipeline Management & Milestone Delivery

• Monitor the implementation of TA grants with DFCD investees, ensuring timely delivery of milestones and supporting documentation.
• Coordinate with DFCD sponsors, consultants, and SNV’s finance team to process disbursements and maintain accurate records.
• Track project progress through DFCD systems (e.g., Monday.com) and contribute to GESI and MEL integration in supported projects.
• Maintain comprehensive documentation, including sponsor updates, financial reports, consultant deliverables, and ESG records.

We are looking for a results-driven professional with strong analytical and relationship-building skills, eager to contribute to climate-resilient investment across Francophone West Africa.

• A Bachelor’s degree is required, preferably in Finance, Economics, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master’s degree is a plus.
• At least 4–5 years of relevant experience, including hands-on financial analysis of SMEs and/or financial institutions.
• Solid understanding of investment processes, loan structuring, and sustainable finance instruments.
• Demonstrated knowledge of at least one DFCD sector (agri-food, water, energy, or ecosystem protection), ideally in a climate adaptation context.
• Experience working with or advising private sector actors, banks, or impact funds in emerging markets.
• Proven ability to develop and maintain networks with business communities, financial institutions, and public sector partners.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in both French and English.
• Experience in Francophone West Africa and a strong sense of initiative and ownership are highly desirable.

• Deadline to apply : 15/082025
• Contract duration : Twelve (12) month renewable based on performance and budget availability)
• Duty station : Based in Cotonou,Benin
• Start date : As soon as possible (ideally October 2025)
• How to Apply :  a motivation letter and CV (max 3 page).

NB :  Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

SNV reserves the right not to respond to this call for applications.

Please submit your application (cover letter and CV, maximum 3 pages) via SmartRecruiters no later than August 15, 2025, if you wish to be considered for this position.

All information will be kept in the strictest confidentiality. We will get back to you as soon as possible after we have reviewed your application.

Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.