Business Development Manager

The Malawi Union of Savings and Credit Co-operatives (“MUSCCO”) is a national democratically controlled apex body of Savings and Credit Co-operatives (“SACCOs’) established on 15th September, 1980. The mission is to promote the sustainable growth and development of financial Cooperatives and their members through cost-effective inclusive programming. MUSCCO is a member of the World Council of Credit Unions and a continental body, known as African Confederation of Cooperative Savings and Credit Association (ACCOSCA).

Aligning with its 2024-28 Strategic Plan, the Union has been mandated to operate through three independent companies namely: The MUSCCOCorporate (responsible for advocacy, promotion and co-ordination of the SACCOs in Malawi) The Cooperatives Development Institute -CDI (focusing on Technical Support and Capacity Building for SACCOs, Research and Development and, The Central Finance Facility- CFF, a regulated and licenced financial intermediary for SACCOs. This has necessitated creation of vacancies to be filled within first quarter of year 2025.

The Union invites applications from suitably qualified persons to fill the vacant positions of Business Development Manager in its establishment.

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER (CDI)

Position: Business Development Manager (SACCOs)
Location: CDI Head Office, MUSCCO House, Lilongwe
Reports to: Cooperatives Development Institute Manager
Provides supervision to: Business Development Coordinators
Effective Date: 1st March, 2025

General

The Business Development and Training Manager is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to enhance the business performance of member SACCOs. This includes providing comprehensive training and technical assistance, identifying and pursuing new business opportunities, fostering a strong network of partnerships.

The position will undertake the following tasks:

Business Development

• Develop and implement strategic plans for business growth and expansion of member SACCOs.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities, including new product and service offerings, market penetration strategies, and diversification initiatives.
  Conduct market research and competitor analysis to identify emerging trends and opportunities.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including regulators, government agencies, and other financial institutions.
• Assist member SACCOs in developing and implementing business plans, marketing strategies, and financial projections 

Operational Efficiency & Sustainability:

• Assist member SACCOs in improving their operational efficiency and reducing costs.
• Identify and mitigate operational and financial risks faced by member SACCOs.
• Promote and advocate for best practices in SACCO management and operations.
• Develop and implement strategies to enhance the long-term sustainability of member SACCOs.

Networking & Partnerships:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with other financial institutions, NGOs, and government agencies to leverage partnerships and resources for the benefit of member SACCOs.
• Represent the Union at industry events, conferences, and workshops.
• Foster a collaborative environment among member SACCOs.

Training & Capacity Building:

• Design and deliver comprehensive training programs on various aspects of financial management, including:
  • Loan appraisal and risk management
  • Customer service and relationship management
  • Financial accounting and reporting
  • Marketing and sales techniques
  • Governance and compliance
  • Digital financial services
• Develop and maintain a comprehensive training curriculum and resource library.
• Conduct regular assessments of training needs and evaluate the effectiveness of training programs.
• Provide ongoing technical assistance and coaching to member SACCOs.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, or a related field. Master’s degree in a relevant field is preferred.
• At least 5 years of experience in the financial sector, with a strong preference for experience in microfinance, cooperative banking, or development finance.
• Proven experience in designing and delivering training programs.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant software.

Remuneration:

The successful candidates shall be offered a negotiated performance related contracts for one year (with an opportunity for two additional years) The Union will offer an attractive salary, benefits and gratuity package commensurate with the seniority of the position.

How to apply:

Candidates meeting the above qualifications and experience should include the following in their application: detailed Curriculum Vitae with names of three traceable referees, a covering letter and copies of certificates to the address below:

The Chief Executive Officer,
MUSCCO Limited,
MUSCCO House,
P.O. Box 651,
LILONGWE

And,

send your application to hr@muscco.org not later than 16.00 pm on Friday, 7th February 2025. Only shortlisted candidates will be acknowledged

MUSCO is an equal opportunity employer committed to inclusive hiring and dedicated to diversity in its work and staff.

Only short-listed applicants will be acknowledged