Call for Financial Expert - Basatine

Berytech is a leading organization in the Entrepreneurial Eco-system in Lebanon, that aims to provide a conducive environment for the creation and development of startups, through incubation, business support, counseling, funding, networking, and company hosting, hence taking part in the economic revival of the country, participating in wealth and job creation, and retaining graduates and high-level skills in Lebanon.

Bolstering Agriculture Systems’ Ability to Invest, Nourish, and Employ (BASATINE) is a four-year project that aims to support farmers and other value chain and associated sector actors in areas of Beqaa and Akkar focused on the production of wheat and vegetables, seeking a territorial approach, and promoting linkages with other value chains. Through complementary interventions designed in alignment with the humanitarian-development-peace nexus, the project will immediately address food insecurity and provide needed income and technical support to farmers to survive this tumultuous time, as well improve the capacity of food systems to maintain employment and growth in the longer term via stronger domestic production and system linkages. This will ultimately contribute to greater economic stability – particularly for women, improved rural development, and more positive social cohesion between host/refugee communities at a local level.

For this purpose, Berytech, through the BASATINE Project, is seeking hire a consultant who will be able to deliver the consultancy services requested below to a sole SME operating in the agri-food sector, specialized in enhancing both Business Development and Market Access for Lebanese Small-Scale Producers. The concerned SME offers Business Consultation, Logistical and Distribution Solutions, Access to Market, Expertise in Business Development and more.

The objectives of the consultancy engagement are as follows:

1. Conduct a thorough financial assessment, perform a Gap analysis and develop a strategic financial restructuring plan.
2. Establish robust accounting and cash flow management practices, incorporating financial forecasting and assessing cash flow needs, to optimize the company's financial operations.
3. Assist partners in making informed decisions supported by financial analysis and profitability assessment.
4. Integrate robust internal controls and oversee accounting and auditing processes to ensure compliance with government regulations and maintain financial accuracy.

a. Financial Structure

1. Review current financial structure: Analyze financial statements, cash flow, budgeting, and internal controls.
2. Design and implement improved financial structure: Recommend and implement changes to accounting systems, reporting procedures, budgeting processes, and internal controls.
3. Develop financial policies and procedures: Create clear and documented policies for handling accounts payable, receivable, payroll, and other financial transactions.
4. Automate financial processes: Identify opportunities for automation to enhance efficiency and accuracy.

b. Cash Flow management

1. Create a dynamic financial model for the next three years to provide a comprehensive overview of the company's financial performance and identify potential funding gaps.
2. Develop and Implement cash flow optimization strategy: Manage accounts payable and receivable, negotiate payment terms, and explore financing options.
3. Monitor cash flow to identify any potential issues: Proactively address risks or challenges to cash flow stability.

c. Data-Driven Decision Making

1. Conduct regular financial analysis: Analyze financial data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities.
2. Create a standardized financial reports template and implement a procedural framework to be adhered to before decision-making processes, ensuring consistency and clarity in presenting financial information.
3. Support partners in interpreting financial data: Explain financial concepts and implications to improve decision-making.

d. Financial Auditing

1. Internal audits: Evaluate the effectiveness of internal controls and identify areas for improvement.
2. Maintain compliance with accounting regulations: Ensure the company adheres to all relevant accounting standards and tax regulations.

1. 1 Contract to be signed.

Payment: 10% of the contract value upon signing the contract.

1. Assessment Report - 3 weeks after the signature of the contract. The report must include:

1. Comprehensive and thorough assessment of the current financial structure highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.
2. Strategic financial plan based on the assessment findings.

Payment: 20 % of the contract value upon approving the assessment report.

1. Financial Structure and Cash Flow Management - 8 weeks after the submission of the assessment report

1. Report outlining recommended changes to improve the financial structure, along with a clear timeline for implementation.
2. Financial policies and procedures manual that ensures clarity and compliance with industry best practices.
3. 3-year dynamic financial model incorporating Income Statement, Balance Sheet, and Cash Flow Statement.

Payment: 30 % of the contract value upon approving the submitted reports outlining the above.

1. Financial analysis and internal control- 12 weeks after the submission of the assessment report

1. Internal audit report encompassing detailed findings and corresponding recommendations.
2. Financial Analysis Report evaluating the company's performance over the past two years.
3. Standardized financial reports template designed for decision-making purposes.

Payment: 30 % of the contract value upon approving the submitted reports outlining the above.

1. 1 End-of-Intervention Report to be submitted before the end of the contracting period.

A final report delivered by the consultant detailing the impact of the work and other details deemed necessary for reporting.

Payment: 10% of the contract value following the submission and approval of the final report.

• Advanced degree in finance, accounting, economics, or a related field.
• Professional certification such as CPA (Certified Public Accountant), CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst), or ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants).
• Extensive experience in financial analysis, budgeting, forecasting, and financial modeling.
• Strong understanding of financial regulations and accounting standards.
• Proven track record of successfully managing financial operations and implementing financial strategies.
• Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for working with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to adapt to changing financial environments and provide innovative solutions.
• Experience in conducting financial audits and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Knowledge of industry-specific financial practices and trends.