The United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) seeks a highly motivated and experienced individual for the position of FinWise Project Coordinator in Kampala, Uganda.
This position is integral to the successful implementation of the FinWise Uganda project, which is part of UNCDF’s broader strategy to support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in developing economies. The Project Coordinator will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the project, from strategic leadership to day-to-day management, and will play a key role in ensuring that the project’s goals are achieved efficiently and effectively.
Background and Organizational Context
UNCDF’s mission is to support the economic development of the world’s least developed countries (LDCs) by mobilizing capital for sustainable investments. Through a unique combination of grants, loans, and guarantees, UNCDF seeks to crowd in private sector investment and enhance the capacity of local financial systems to meet development needs.
In Uganda, UNCDF is focusing on bridging the financing, capacity, and technology gaps faced by MSMEs, particularly in the areas of women-owned enterprises, tech startups, and low-growth microenterprises.
The FinWise Uganda initiative specifically aims to enhance the financial access and resilience of MSMEs by working closely with financial service providers (FSPs), government bodies, and private sector partners. It targets key last-mile segments such as aspiring entrepreneurs, high-growth tech startups, and low-growth businesses, addressing their unique challenges with tailored financial solutions and capacity-building interventions.
Key Responsibilities
The FinWise Uganda Project Coordinator will oversee the execution of all project components, ensuring alignment with UNCDF’s goals and the specific needs of the Ugandan context. The role requires an individual with a robust understanding of inclusive finance, project management, and strategic leadership.
- Leadership and Team Management
The Project Coordinator will be responsible for leading and mentoring the project team, ensuring that each team member is equipped with the skills and resources necessary to deliver on the project’s objectives. This includes supervising consultants, conducting regular performance evaluations, and fostering a culture of learning and continuous improvement within the team. - Project Planning and Implementation
The coordinator will provide strategic oversight to the planning, budgeting, and implementation of the FinWise project. This involves developing annual work plans, procurement strategies, and financial management systems to ensure that the project is delivered within budget and on schedule. They will also coordinate project activities with key government initiatives and UNCDF’s strategic priorities. - Results Measurement and Reporting
A core responsibility of the Project Coordinator is to track the project’s impact, ensuring that both quantitative and qualitative results are measured accurately. This includes preparing regular progress reports for donors, government partners, and other stakeholders. The coordinator will ensure that monitoring and evaluation systems are in place to measure the effectiveness of interventions and identify areas for improvement. - Stakeholder Engagement and Knowledge Management
The coordinator will engage with a wide range of stakeholders, including government agencies, financial institutions, and donors, to ensure alignment and collaboration. They will also contribute to knowledge management efforts, sharing lessons learned and best practices within the organization and across the wider development community. Building strong relationships with partners will be key to ensuring the long-term sustainability of the FinWise project. - Resource Mobilization
A critical aspect of the role will be resource mobilization. The coordinator will work closely with donors, private sector actors, and other development partners to secure funding and support for the project. They will also be responsible for identifying new opportunities for collaboration and expansion, ensuring the ongoing success of the initiative. - Project Governance and Risk Management
The Project Coordinator will oversee risk management for the project, ensuring that any potential challenges are identified early and mitigated. They will also manage the governance of the project, ensuring compliance with UNCDF’s policies, donor requirements, and local regulations.
Qualifications and Experience
Candidates for this position should possess an advanced university degree in a relevant field, such as business administration, economics, or social sciences, and have at least seven years of relevant experience in financial services, digital financial services, or project management. Experience working with MSMEs and in inclusive finance is highly desirable.
Candidates should also demonstrate a proven ability to manage large-scale projects and lead teams in complex, multi-stakeholder environments. Fluency in English is essential, and experience with UN agencies or similar international organizations is an asset.
Why This Role Matters
The FinWise Uganda project is an exciting and impactful initiative that aligns with UNCDF’s commitment to fostering inclusive, sustainable economic growth in Uganda and other least developed countries.
The Project Coordinator will have the opportunity to make a significant difference by directly contributing to the growth and resilience of MSMEs in Uganda, particularly those led by women and other underserved groups. Through their leadership and expertise, the Project Coordinator will help drive UNCDF’s mission to unlock the financing needed to support the most vulnerable businesses and communities, ultimately contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their applications by May 8, 2025. Applicants must include a CV, a cover letter, and references from previous employers. Further documentation may be requested during the interview process.
This position offers a unique opportunity to be part of a global organization committed to sustainable development and financial inclusion, providing a platform for professional growth and impact on a national scale.
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