Program Coordinator, Research and Development

Location:                    Boston, Massachusetts

Reports To:                Manager, Research and Development

Job Summary:

The Program Coordinator will assist the Research and Development team whose areas of expertise include alternative banking channels, and microfinance research development. S/he will participate in the day-to-day activities of ACCION’s Research and Development team as well as participate in the team and organization-wide meetings. This is a great opportunity for candidates interested in research and analysis, as well as microfinance and the work of ACCION.

Key Areas of Responsibility:

• Researching and analyzing of best practices in the microfinance industry; alternative banking channels and financial products;
• Assisting with the development of financial and non-financial prototypes;
• Translating project documentation as needed;
• Producing analytical reports of research and data that highlight key lessons and trends;
• Devising case studies for the opportunity assessment of strategic initiatives, showing expected results, revenue generation and/or contribution to ACCION’s Mission;
• Supervising and coordinating R&D interns;
• Supporting the R&D Unit Head with coordination of projects within the program; and
• Assisting field participation in specific R&D projects.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Bachelor of Arts or Science degree in a relevant field.
• Interest in and knowledge of microfinance, finance and development issues.
• Excellent communication skills, especially writing and editing of English a must.
• Fluency in Spanish (both written and spoken).
  • Exceptional research skills and experience with major research project and/or thesis, desired.
  • Qualitative and quantitative analysis skills.
  • Extensive computer skills (specifically, intermediate Excel proficiency and experience with Visio highly desirable).
  • An innovative and inquisitive, team member who listens to and considers input from others.
  • Strong organizational skills, ability to multi-task and complete projects by deadline.
  • Detail-oriented.
  • Ability to take initiative and work independently.

Applications:  Please submit letter of interest and resume online at www.accion.org. 

About ACCION:

ACCION International is a private, nonprofit organization with the mission of giving people the financial tools they need—microenterprise loans, business training and other financial services—to help work their way out of poverty. A world pioneer in microfinance, ACCION was founded in 1961 and issued its first microloan in 1973 in Brazil. Over time, ACCION has helped build 62 microfinance institutions in 31 countries on four continents. Those institutions are currently reaching millions of clients. In the United States, the U.S. ACCION Network is the largest microfinance lending network in the country and has served tens of thousands of clients with over $275 million in loans since the inception of its pilot program in 1991. For more information, visit www.accion.org.