MSMEs Accounting and Finance Consultant (m/f) | Axum and Adwa

Terms of Reference

sequa gGmbH is a globally operating non-profit development organisation. Since 1991 sequa has carried out programmes and projects of international cooperation in close collaboration with the German private sector. sequa offers know-how and long-term experience in capacity development for chambers and associations (BMOs), vocational education and training, private sector development and trade promotion. The organisation is based in Bonn, Germany. sequa employs over 100 people (2023) and generated a turnover of 60 million euros (2023).

 

We are offering a project-based assignment as

MSMEs Accounting and Finance Consultant (m/f) 

Location:	Axum and Adwa, Tigray Regional State
Assignment Period:	01.02.2025 – 31.07.2025
Working time scope:	Up to 45 working days within the assignment period, and expandable depending on personal qualifications and needs of the assignment
Project:	Private Sector Development in Ethiopia (PSDE): Output 5
Project code:	ETH-1096-MSMEs Accounting and Finance Consultant

 

The Project

The “Private Sector Development in Ethiopia” (PSD-E) project aims to improve the growth opportunities of MSMEs, start-ups and small & growing businesses (SGBs). This is accomplished by strengthening the capacities and private sector orientation of public institutions, intermediaries and business development service providers through organizational development (change management), staff capacity building and public-private dialogues. The project has five components addressing interventions on macro, meso and micro levels.

Component 5 of the PSD-E project is co-funded by the European Union, The Minister for Trade and Development Cooperation of the Netherlands, and German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) within a holistic programme to support the recovery and strengthen the resilience of MSMEs in post-conflict areas.

GIZ/sequa implements the project “Improved Access to Finance and Creditworthiness for Micro-, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the Amhara, Tigray and Afar regions”. The objective of the intervention is to restore the local economy and build the resilience of MSMEs affected by the crises in Northern Ethiopia, by improving credit worthiness and access to finance of the selected beneficiary enterprises.

It specifically provides direct, needs-oriented support training for MSMEs affected by conflict and crises to improve their business performance as well as their creditworthiness towards financial institutions. This helps the MSMEs to sustain their business operations or even to ensure their businesses’ recovery and future resilience

Scope of The Assignment

The scope of this assignment is to provide Accounting and Finance consultancy support for up to 10 MSMEs in Axum and Adwa, engaged in different sectors such as urban agriculture, agro-processing. WASH, textile and garment, as well as other sectors. The assignment includes conducting gap assessments, preparing action plans, identifying suitable banks, aiding in loan applications, and delivering training on efficient loan management.

Your Tasks / Responsibilities & Deliverables

The consulting expert is expected to deliver the following tasks.

Tasks/ Responsibilities	Deliverables	Days
Work package 1: Gap assessment and status-quo analysis
Conduct a detailed gap assessment of MSMEs’ financial records, accounting systems, and credit profiles. Analyse financial statements, cash flow projections, and existing loan arrangements to identify gaps in credit worthiness. Evaluate record-keeping practices, accounting procedures, and financial reporting standards for compliance and effectiveness. Assess the alignment of financial goals with actual performance and identify areas that need improvement to enhance credit worthiness.	Gap assessment report	5 Days
Work package 2: Preparation; develop action plan
Develop a comprehensive action plan based on the findings from the gap assessment to address identified gaps. Prioritize areas of improvement such as enhancing financial reporting and improving cash flow management. Define clear objectives, timelines, responsible parties, and key performance indicators to measure progress. Incorporate strategies for mitigating risks, improving financial stability, and enhancing credit profiles to attract potential lenders. Prepare a comprehensive checklist based on the gap assessment findings and action plan recommendations.	Detailed Action Plan Checklist	2 Days
Work package 3: Provide supports through training, follow up, and regular evaluation and monitoring
Provide dedicated accounting and finance consultancy support to MSMEs to implement the action plan effectively. Offer guidance on financial record-keeping, accounting best practices, and compliance with regulatory requirements. Develop customized financial strategies to optimize cash flow, manage working capital efficiently, and improve profitability. Facilitate knowledge transfer and skill-building initiatives to empower MSMEs in managing their financial resources effectively. Assist MSMEs in transitioning to a digitalized recording system for streamlined financial management. Provide training on the use of digital tools for enhancing record-keeping efficiency and accuracy. Facilitate financial literacy programs to empower MSMEs in making informed financial decisions. Regularly evaluate MSMEs’ progress against the checklist to monitor results and measure performance improvements. Conduct periodic reviews to identify new gaps and adjust strategies accordingly. Communicate key findings and progress updates to stakeholders. The consultant must visit and provide onsite support for each enterprise at least once per two weeks.	Training manual with relevant topics and depth, Training attendance report, Training report on financial procedures and practices.	18 Days
Work package 4: Loan application and management
Guide MSMEs in writing a comprehensive business plan that highlights financial stability and growth potential. Identify appropriate banks and financial institutions that align with the financing needs of the MSMEs. Assist MSMEs in preparing loan applications by providing guidance on key financial metrics and information required by banks. Deliver specialized training on effective loan management practices, including budgeting, cash flow management, and debt repayment strategies.	Business plan Loan application for each MSME to at least, one suitable bank Exit report	20 Days