Whole Planet Foundation (WPF) is a 501c3 private foundation established by Whole Foods Market (WFM) whose mission is to provide financial support to Microfinance Institutions (MFI) to alleviate poverty through expansion of microcredit services in communities that supply Whole Foods Market with product. Partner MFIs deliver financial services that are tailored to the realities of people living in poverty while maintaining efficient operations in a financially sustainable manner.
About the Job:

“In 2010 WPF is focusing microfinance expansion efforts on countries in Latin America and plans to contract one person to facilitate due diligence of new projects and oversee M&E for the existing portfolio of projects. It is imperative that this person have significant experience working in rural Latin America with an understanding of the reality facing the poor. Knowledge of microfinance will be important. The ability to speak Spanish fluently (FSI 4.0 or better) is imperative to being successful in this position. Ability to speak Portuguese is an added benefit. As well, extensive global travel of 50% to 75% will be required.

Although this position will be hired as an Independent Contractor, this position will need to be filled as long as WPF continues to operate.

Job Objectives:

  • Assist Whole Planet Foundation to expand and oversee the portfolio of microfinance projects in Latin America
  • Build and maintain relationships with Foundation microfinance partners in the region
  • Tell the story of Microfinance Institutions (MFI), clients, and the realities of poverty through various mediums

Objectives and Activities:

  • Conduct desk due diligence of potential MFIs that may qualify as a partner through internet and other forms of remote research
  • Assess MFIs abilities to grow loan portfolios in an efficient and sustainable manner to maximize Foundation support
  • Analyze MFIs approach and objectives to delivering microfinance services to the poor
  • Visit MFIs based on outcomes of remote research and Foundation expansion plans
  • Recommend MFIs based on research finding
  • 6. Communicate with Foundation partners on a regular basis to assess performance of MFI as compared to original grant agreement
  • Compile quarterly metrics of MFI partners and analyze accomplishments versus project goals
  • Perform thorough review of MFI partners financial statements on an as needed basis
  • Conduct field reviews of projects on an as needed basis
  • Provide the Foundation with video and photographic MFI client stories
  • Manage and be responsible for all activities as an independent contractor with guidance from WPF
  • Provide logistic support and coordination on an as needed basis for visits from WPF representatives to the region

Work Environment:

  • Work location is based out of San José, Costa Rica and will require extensive travel throughout the Americas.
  • Position involves exposure to conditions found in the developing-world and requires complete immunization as recommended by the CDC.
  • Additional job demands include a wide-range of adaptability to move between extreme poverty and professional environments
  • Noise level in the work environment depends on work location.

Additional Qualifications:

  • Min. bachelor’s degree in international development, business, economics or related studies.
  • Fully fluent in Spanish and Portuguese a plus
  • At least 2 years of experience working in rural development in Latin America
  • Experience with microfinance or other related business field
  • Understanding of financial statements
  • Strong analytical skills to assess potential MFI partners
  • Ability to interview MFI clients in the field
  • Ability to provide high quality photos and video of MFI clients based on WPF requirements
  • Strong writing skills”

For information on how to apply, visit IdeaList.org