Exciting Opportunity: UNCDF is Hiring an Investment Specialist for SME Trade Finance | Apply by August 5, 2026 @Unknown

UNCDF Job Summary

Job Title: Investment Specialist – SME Trade Finance
Location: Home-based
Closing Date: 5 August 2026
Contract: International Personnel Service Agreement (1 Year, Full-time)

Job Summary

United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) is seeking an experienced trade finance professional to lead a multi-country programme aimed at expanding SME access to trade finance across Ghana, Burkina Faso, Malawi, Ethiopia, Rwanda, and Trinidad & Tobago.

The role involves managing innovative trade finance solutions, stakeholder engagement, and programme oversight to build sustainable markets for small businesses. Location: Home-based. Closing date: 5 August 2026. Contract: 1 Year (International Personnel Service Agreement).

About UNCDF

UNCDF is an autonomous organ of the United Nations dedicated to supporting developing countries, especially least developed countries, in economic development through grants, loans, and guarantees.

Its strategic focus includes SME finance, sub-national finance, and digital finance, with a mission to mobilize capital flows for SDG impactful investments that promote sustainable growth and equitable prosperity.

Key Responsibilities

Market Development & Technical Assistance

• Drive programme activities under the Trade Finance Innovation workstream
• Support capacity building for local financial institutions on SME trade finance best practices
• Develop trade finance readiness programs for SMEs, including training and digitalization initiatives
• Contribute to policy dialogue on trade finance gaps and regulatory reforms

Trade Finance Investment Underwriting & Due Diligence

• Conduct financial and operational due diligence on SME trade finance opportunities
• Evaluate creditworthiness and structure trade finance instruments such as letters of credit and receivables financing
• Assess sector-specific risks including commodity price volatility and cross-border regulations

Trade Finance Product Structuring & Innovation

• Design blended finance solutions combining grants, guarantees, and commercial capital
• Develop innovative trade finance products tailored to SME needs
• Structure syndications and risk-sharing mechanisms to mobilize larger capital pools

Stakeholder Engagement & Coordination

• Build relationships with commercial banks, export credit agencies, and fintech platforms
• Collaborate with trade promotion agencies, chambers of commerce, and supply chain anchors
• Coordinate with trade facilitation organizations and customs authorities

Portfolio Monitoring & Impact Measurement

• Monitor portfolio performance, including utilization and default rates
• Track developmental impacts such as SME job creation and export growth
• Prepare reports on trade finance trends and success stories

Programme Management & Leadership

• Oversee programme budget, strategic planning, and operational risks
• Lead donor engagement, resource mobilization, and high-level representation
• Ensure programme alignment with UNCDF’s gender and sustainability strategies

Knowledge Sharing & Capacity Building

• Identify capacity building needs and organize relevant activities
• Document best practices, programme results, and lessons learned

Required Skills and Experience

Education

• Advanced university degree in Finance, Economics, Business Administration, or related field (Master’s preferred)
• Or Bachelor’s degree with additional qualifying experience

Experience

• Minimum 5 years (with Master’s) or 7 years (with Bachelor’s) in trade finance
• Proven experience in project management within SME finance
• Experience working with financial service providers, governments, and multilateral organizations
• Demonstrated ability to build partnerships and manage external relations

Skills & Certifications

• Strong knowledge of trade finance instruments, blended finance, and risk management
• Experience in engaging with development banks, export credit agencies, and private sector stakeholders
• Knowledge of EU-funded projects, UN programming, and regulatory environments is desirable
• Professional certifications such as CTFP or CFA are a plus

Languages

• Fluency in English required; French language skills are an asset

Who Can Apply

This position is open to internal and external applicants, with eligibility based on the tiered application process outlined by UNCDF.

Candidates should meet the specified experience and educational requirements.

Why Join UNCDF?

Be part of a global organization focused on impactful development finance, working across innovative projects to empower small businesses in developing countries, and contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

How to Apply

Visit the full job description and application instructions here: