About the Organization
Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH is a leading international development organization that supports governments and institutions worldwide in achieving sustainable economic and social development.
GIZ operates on behalf of the German Government and collaborates with global partners such as the European Union to implement impactful development programs.
In Ethiopia, GIZ plays a significant role in supporting national reforms and strengthening institutions to foster inclusive growth.
The organization is known for its strong professional culture, international exposure, and commitment to innovation and capacity building.
The Private Sector Development in Ethiopia (PSD-E) project is one of GIZ’s flagship initiatives aimed at promoting a competitive and resilient private sector.
This project supports Ethiopia’s economic transition toward a market-driven economy by strengthening businesses, improving financial systems, and enhancing regulatory frameworks.
It also focuses on empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), especially those led by women and those operating in post-conflict regions.
Through its work, the project contributes to job creation, economic stability, and long-term development across the country.
Job Description
The Advisor – Business Development (Access to Finance Advisor) plays a critical role in improving access to finance for businesses in Ethiopia.
This position focuses on supporting MSMEs, startups, and high-growth companies to access both debt and equity financing.
The advisor works closely with financial institutions, government bodies, and private sector stakeholders to design and implement innovative financial solutions.
The role directly contributes to strengthening Ethiopia’s financial ecosystem, enabling businesses to grow, compete, and withstand economic challenges.
Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting market assessments to identify barriers to financial access
- Providing advisory services to financial institutions to improve products and services
- Supporting development and piloting of innovative financial solutions
- Training financial institution staff on new financial instruments
- Advising companies on becoming creditworthy and investment-ready
The advisor also plays a strong coordination and project management role, ensuring that all interventions are effectively implemented and aligned with project goals.
This position offers a dynamic and intellectually engaging environment where strategic thinking meets real-world impact.
Educational Qualification
Candidates must hold a Master’s degree in one of the following fields:
- Finance
- Business Administration
- Economics
- Development Studies
- Or a related discipline
Advanced education provides the theoretical and analytical foundation required for this high-level advisory role.
Work Experience
Applicants should have a minimum of five years of relevant professional experience.
Experience must include:
- Financial advisory services related to access to finance
- Working with MSMEs or larger companies
- Collaboration with financial institutions such as banks or microfinance institutions
Additional advantages include:
- Experience in equity finance
- International work exposure
- Proven success in implementing finance-related projects
Candidates with a strong track record in delivering measurable results will be highly competitive.
Required Skills and Competencies
The ideal candidate should demonstrate:
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
- Ability to interpret complex financial and market data
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
- Strong project management capabilities
Technical competencies include:
- Proficiency in MS Office tools such as Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook
- Experience using project management tools and methodologies
- Ability to design and evaluate financial products
Additional competencies include:
- Strategic thinking and long-term planning skills
- Ability to influence decision-making through evidence-based approaches
- Strong teamwork and collaboration in multicultural environments
Fluency in English and Amharic, both written and spoken, is required.
Job Location
The position is based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with potential collaboration across national institutions and stakeholders.
Employment Type and Salary
This is a full-time position under GIZ’s development program framework.
GIZ offers a competitive salary package along with attractive benefits aligned with international standards.
Employees benefit from continuous learning opportunities, professional development programs, and exposure to global best practices.
The role provides excellent career growth opportunities in development finance, advisory services, and international project management.
Working in this position allows professionals to build a strong reputation in the finance and development sectors.
It also provides a unique opportunity to contribute to Ethiopia’s economic transformation while advancing one’s career.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should submit their application via email to: recruitment-ethiopia@giz.de
Applicants must include:
- A motivation letter
- An updated CV
In the subject line of the email, clearly write:
Your Full Name – Advisor – Business Development #031/2026
Candidates must clearly indicate the project they are applying for in their motivation letter.
Applications that do not include the vacancy number in the subject line may be disqualified.
Please note that scanned certificates or additional attachments are not required at this stage of application.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further selection processes.
The application deadline is March 31, 2026.
GIZ strongly encourages women and candidates from underrepresented groups to apply.
The organization is committed to diversity, equality, and inclusion, ensuring fair opportunities for all applicants.