ProFound - Advisors in Development - is a research and consultancy company with many years of experience in the field of market analysis, sustainable supply chain management and (export) marketing of biodiversity related products.
For our sister company, Blue Rhino Consult BV, ProFound is looking for a microfinance enthusiast as an intern for a research project into the European Microfinance Sector.
Blue Rhino Consult BV has a long track record in development work. We apply our experience, expertise and skills to the microfinance sector. Because of our roots in development work, we have a strong affinity with microfinance institutions (MFIs) that design and offer financial services based on development issues.
Our core business at Blue Rhino is to assist these MFIs to increase their operational margins. We aim to do this not by increasing interest rates or by catering to higher yielding classes of clients, but by achieving major efficiency gains. We are specialized in helping MFIs to reach their priority clients with appropriate and affordable products and services.
The Internship
Blue Rhino will produce three inventories of the European microfinance actors working in developing countries. These inventories will focus on the following points: 1) the general activities of European microfinance actors; 2) the activities regarding their capacity building; 3) the activities regarding their microfinance research. These inventories will be developed for the European Microfinance Platform, based in Luxembourg.
Under the supervision of a Blue Rhino consultant, you will work on data collection and analysis, and communicate with the European microfinance institutions. You will, jointly with a Blue Rhino consultant, produce draft versions of the three inventories and prepare presentations on the main results. You will also support the elaboration of policy recommendations and look into the needs within the European microfinance support sector.
Perhaps most importantly, this internship will allow you to take a look in the microfinance sector and bring the knowledge acquired during your studies into practice. For more information on Blue Rhino's projects, please refer to www.bluerhino.nl.
Your Profile
· Excellent knowledge of the English language (Dutch is not a must). Knowledge of additional EU languages is preferred;
· Affinity with economics and microfinance;
· Affinity with developing countries and development issues;
· Having obtained, or currently pursuing a Masters degree in (international) economics, finance, business or related fields;
· Excellent communication skills;
· Good analytical skills;
· Well-motivated and flexible team-player;
· Good computer skills, particularly with Word and Excel.
Period
We are looking for interns that can assist us for at least 3 months. Preferably, you are available for at least 3 days a week during this period. The starting date of your internship will be discussed during your interview, but should preferably be before July 23rd.
We offer
You will work in a dynamic and supportive atmosphere and in a small and motivated team. A designated supervisor will help you during the internship period, while contributing to Blue Rhino's mission. Apart from this, you will be working alongside ProFound's employees and will gain useful working experience within the development sector.
During your internship, you will work mainly on the assignment described above. Financial remuneration and compensation for your travel expenses will be provided.
Interested?
If you are interested in gaining experience through working in our team, please send your application letter, CV and learning goals to mail@thisisprofound.com.
For more information, please contact Simone Peppelenbos at +31 (0) 302762824. You should do so before July 7th.
