Organization: Intuit
Location: Bangalore, IN
About Intuit
Intuit Inc. (NASDAQ: INTU) is the world's leading provider of software and web-based services for consumers and small businesses. Our flagship products and services include well-known brands such as TurboTax, Quicken and QuickBooks. Founded in 1983, Intuit has annual revenues of over $3 billion and reaches over 25 million customers with ~8,000 employees in several countries. Fortune Magazine recognized Intuit as "America's Most Admired Software Company" and one of the "100 Best Companies to Work For" for the last several years running.
No matter where you find us, we remain committed to creating new and easier ways for consumers and businesses to tackle life's chores through technology, giving them more time to live their lives and run their businesses. Building on our success in the online/SaaS space, we are aggressively moving into mobile space particularly in Emerging Markets such as India, where mobile is the medium of choice.
About rural space
In most Emerging Markets, ~70% of the population resides in rural areas and contribute anywhere from 30% to 50% of GDP of these economies. Further, not only the rate of new technology adoption has significantly picked up in rural areas but also the nature of technology being adopted is a generation ahead of the technology currently in use in the urban areas - from ultra low-cost biometric ATMs used by micro-finance institutions for payment collection to mobile-based solutions for farmers who will never need to know about or own a computer. In a country like India, 71% of new mobile subscribers are from rural areas highlighting both saturation in urban areas and increasing openness to technology in rural areas.
As part of Intuit's mission to use technology to help impact millions of lives in the emerging markets, we have piloted a mobile agriculture experiment by the name of "Mobile Bazaar" targeting ~270 million farmers in India.
Mobile Bazaar experiment objective
One of the biggest pain points for the ~35-65 million Indian perishable vegetable growers today is uncertainty around whether they are getting the best price for their goods. In addition, there is a need help the farmers avoid having to heavily discount to liquidate their perishable inventory. The core objective of the experiment stems from "to enable farmers to get more money for their produce".
Mobile Bazaar solution
Mobile Bazaar is a simple SMS-based marketplace that connects sellers (farmers) and buyers (mandi agents). It allows buyers to communicate their demand & price and matches sellers to buyers. As a result, not only it helps farmers get better price for their produce, but it also increases buyers' access to sellers. Our solution is powered by automated matching algorithm, ability to send personalized SMS to each farmer and capability to leverage user contribution for price data collection.
Current status
Currently, the experiment is in midst of a pilot across 1000+ villages in Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh supporting 15 major vegetables in 38 mandis (marketplaces). More than 25,000 farmers have already signed up in about two months since launch. As per recently conducted IMRB survey, 73% of the users find this service useful and admit to achieving 14% higher price realization by using Mobile Bazaar.
The road ahead
This experiment has far-reaching implications beyond India. It enables tapping rural customers in Emerging Markets where rural accounts for a significant portion of GDP. The experiment is based on an entry-level mobile solution, which is ubiquitous and highly disruptive with the potential of entrenching itself in the ecosystem through the creation of network effect.
Role Overview
The candidate will lead exploration and execution of monetization options for Mobile Bazaar service. These options could range from advertizing revenues, to fees from transactions leads or actual transactions to subsidization from NGO/philanthropic institutions which are sympathetic to improving the lives of farmers. Several companies and institutions have already reached out to us to utilize the Mobile Bazaar platform. Key activities in this role include:
- Identifying the relevant potential partners for the 2-3 most promising monetization options
- Working with internal stakeholders and monetization partners to gain shared vision on the business model
- Developing a win-win engagement model to work with potential partners to execute on those options
- Driving the execution on the model collaborating with broader Mobile Bazaar team to produce tangible proof points of monetization opportunity in a time-bound manner i.e. conclusive results within the next 4 months
Mobile Bazaar is a high-priority initiative for the company. This is a unique opportunity to work on a disruptive rural social impact initiative in an innovative technology start-up environment.
Depending on the outcome of the monetization effort, Mobile Bazaar may get green-lighted as an offering for national launch or may be shut down. If Mobile Bazaar is green-lighted, this candidate will continue with the Mobile Bazaar team and drive the national launch. If Mobile Bazaar is shut down, this candidate will move to other suitable roles in the bigger Intuit organization.
Qualifications:
- Solid understanding of the Indian business landscape (i.e. which companies/institutions will be most relevant in the context of rural consumers and what value proposition will resonate with them)
- Outstanding deal structuring skills and maturity to nurture a win-win model with large corporate partners
- Outstanding operational skills with track record of actually delivering results on the ground (minimum 5+ years of experience)
- Outstanding facilitative leadership and interpersonal skills to quickly gain shared vision externally and internally in order to move things forward under deadlines
- Clarity in thinking and problem-solving skills to prioritize and stay focused on what is needed to generate proof points on monetization in a time-bound manner
- Start-up mindset with high degree of comfort with ambiguity
- Outstanding senior management communication skills
- Open to extensive travelling within India
Considering candidates on a rolling basis. Apply early for better chances. Application deadline: February 15th, 2010
Compensation is not a constraint for the right candidate.
Hiring Manager contact:
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Authored by: Bob Kennedy
As announced in January (link), The William Davidson Institute (WDI) has joined the World Resources Institute and Acumen Fund as co-Managing Partners of the NextBillion.net site. The Managing Partners set strategy, fund enhancements to the site, manage the site, and work together to grow the NextBillion community.
This post is intended to introduce WDI to the NextBillion community and to invite you to explore ways to engage with the Institute.
WDI is a think tank located at the University of Michigan (UM) that focuses on business and policy issues in developing countries. WDI was founded in 1992, just a few years after the fall of the Berlin Wall, because Bill Davidson wanted to help the countries of Central and Eastern Europe make the transition from central planning to market economies. WDI's focus has always been on practical engagements (see below). Today, WDI has about 30 employees and operates in five broad areas:
In each area, WDI focuses on practical research and engagement and works to build bridges between academic research and interesting organizations in the field. Examples of this are Ted London's work on Impact Assessment (HBR article) or my book on Offshoring (link).
- Executive Education - we deliver Exec Ed programs in developing countries using faculty from UM and other leading schools. In 2009, WDI delivered 44 programs in about 20 countries - including Brazil, Costa Rica, Croatia, Latvia, Mexico, Rwanda, Slovakia, Turkey, and many others.
- Development Consulting Services - we organize and deliver capacity building projects for development agencies (USAID, the World Bank, etc) in developing countries.
DCS has core competencies in six areas: Higher Educational Development, Private Sector Development, Monitoring and Evaluation, Policy Reform, and Post-conflict Economic Growth.
DCS currently manages a portfolio of 12 projects covering 12 countries - including Algeria, Benin, Cambodia, Guatemala, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Rwanda, Sri Lanka, the West Bank, and others.
- Educational Outreach - we develop teaching materials (cases, videos, simulations, etc.) on business and policy issues. WDI has established a leading position in the international business and BoP segments. You can browse the case collection at GlobaLens.com. For those of you who are teaching professionals, you can apply for "registered educator" status here.
- Supporting international activities at UM - includes a wide range of activities to encourage emerging market research and experiences by the Michigan community. These include research grants, student projects, a speakers' series, support for faculty travel and research, etc.
As you can see, there is quite a bit of overlap with the interests of the NextBillion community. You can find out more about WDI and its activities by downloading our semi-annual newsletter.
Many of the people at WDI (Ted London, Stu Hart, Heather Esper, Moses Lee, and myself, and others) are deeply involved in the "Development Though Enterprise" space. We look forward to getting to know you all and creating interesting and productive engagements in the years ahead.
Authored by: Sriram Gutta
Over the last two decades, models for livelihoods for the poor have come of age and many organizations have focused their efforts on reducing the vulnerability of marginalized communities. A lot of these activities have been through the efforts of NGOs, international funding agencies, and local organizations working in specific regions and with specific segments.
Though these models have been successful in creating employment, they haven't scaled to realize their true potential. One such example is of Chamba chappals where over 500 artisans make sturdy and beautifully designed footwear in their homes or small shops. Chamba chappals have long been known for their durability and exclusive designs, many of which are now being developed and sold by footwear manufacturers at exorbitant prices. Yet, in the absence of proper advertising and market linkages - critical to ensuring these organizations take advantage of existing market opportunities, the Chamba artisans are finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet.
Before moving forward, it is important to define 'market linkage' for the benefit of all readers. This definition is my view-point on the topic and may vary from other definitions. A clear market linkage is comprised of one or more organizations that facilitate end to end integration of the entire supply chain - mobilize the women, train them, provide necessary infrastructure, supply inputs, provide capacity building training, and buy-back the finished product.
In simpler terms, an established market linkage frees up the women workers so they need only concentrate on production or sales (in the case of micro-entrepreneurs) and earn their livelihood.
Though some organizations have successfully created market linkages and achieved scale, we as an industry have a long way to go. I have listed four models that can each be effective in creating organizations that are scalable and sustainable:
1) Community managed organizations - These organizations mobilize groups to come together towards a common economic activity. They provide various types of capacity building to provide the necessary functional and technical skills. High volumes ensure benefits in the form of better pricing, lower operational costs, and removal of intermediaries. One of the most successful models in India is that of 'Shree Mahila Gram Udyog' (Lijjat papad - thin crispy Indian wafer). The organization reaches 42,000 women in 72 branches across various states. Through the combined effort of all its members, Lijjat has achieved sales of over Rs.520 crores with exports itself exceeding Rs. 24 crores.
2) Corporate tie-ups - These models could include institutions (like microfinance, NGOs, and the like) that mobilize women for a livelihood activity and companies that provide the market linkages. Notable among these is Indian tobacco company's (ITC) collaboration with 'self employed women's association' (SEWA) - one of India's largest membership organizations for women workers in the informal sector. SEWA mobilizes rural women and brings them together in the production of agarbattis (incense sticks). ITC supports these organizations in setting up units, training women, providing raw materials, and buying-back the finished product. Another interesting model is that of Fabindia.
3) Collaborative model - Considering the array of activities involved from mobilizing people to selling the output, there is an opportunity for multiple players to participate in a market linkage. These models include different organizations playing different roles to ensure a beginning to end integration. I haven't been able to come across any such successful models that have achieved scale.
4) Women entrepreneurs- There are organizations with inclusive business models that have created micro-entrepreneurs. Women in these organizations act as sales and marketing agents. Some of successful models are 'The Village Phone' - grameen phone's initiative and 'VisionSpring', among others.
Through these models, organizations like ITC, Lijjat papad and Gujarat cooperative milk marketing federation (Amul) have successfully created livelihood opportunities for thousands of women - creating employment opportunities in rural and urban areas while also creating wealth. They provide constant support through their strong marketing reach, technical training, and quality process - resulting in standardized and high quality products. These micro-enterprises provide the women with a livelihood that could be carried out within their homes, at their own time and convenience. Though it varies from product to product, these micro-entrepreneurs earn anywhere between Rs. 800 to Rs. 3000/month - which is significant considering that most of these women are otherwise unemployed and their husbands are unskilled laborers.
We as an industry must create more robust market linkages which once successful hold tremendous potential for large scale impact.
If you know of other organizations which provide a large scale livelihood with a market linkage, please indicate that in the comments section.
Organization: Root Capital
Location: Cambridge, MA, US
Supervisor: Director, Loan Operations
Start Date: April 2010
Contact: Jen Stine
Director, Human Resources and Administration
jobs@rootcapital.org
SUMMARY
Root Capital seeks a detail-oriented Portfolio Servicing Associate to join Root Capital's growing portfolio servicing team based in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The Associate will coordinate closely with different teams within the Lending Department as well as with Root Capital clients in order to conduct loan transactions, payment processing, and portfolio data reporting. A large percentage of the activities will be conducted in Spanish, and an increasing amount will be conducted in French. Candidates should have experience communicating in Spanish in a professional setting; additional French language abilities will be highly regarded. In addition, candidates should possess: a Bachelor's degree plus 1-2 years of relevant experience; attention to detail and the ability to multi-task in a high-pressure environment; strong customer service philosophy and interpersonal skills to work with people from diverse backgrounds; excellent communication and teamwork skills; proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word; the ability to learn new software and data management tools; and a passion for Root Capital's mission of building sustainable livelihoods in rural communities through socially and environmentally responsible investing.
MISSION AND HISTORY OF ROOT CAPITAL
Root Capital's mission is to pioneer finance for grassroots businesses that build sustainable livelihoods and transform rural communities in poor, environmentally vulnerable places.
Root Capital is a nonprofit social investment fund that is pioneering finance for grassroots businesses in rural areas of developing countries. We provide capital, financial education, and market connections to small and growing businesses that build sustainable livelihoods and transform rural communities in poor environmentally vulnerable places.
Through innovative approaches to development finance, Root Capital aims to fill the "missing middle" of finance - serving organizations caught in the gap between microfinance and traditional banking. We provide loans ranging on average from $25,000 to $1,000,000 to rural enterprises and agricultural entrepreneurs that link smallholder farmers and artisans to competitive markets. Since our launch in 1999, we have provided more than $150 million in credit to 254 grassroots enterprises in 30 countries, maintaining a 99% repayment rate from our borrowers and a 100% repayment rate to our investors. Headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Root Capital currently has associated offices in Costa Rica, Mexico, Peru and Kenya.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Prepare loan contracts, coordinate their delivery to other team members and clients, and assist in collecting signed contracts.
- Administer loan disbursements.
- Process loan payments in conjunction with other portfolio servicing team members.
- Process loan disbursements in coordination with clients and Lending Department staff.
- Maintain updated filing systems for loan contracts, both physical and digital.
- Draft and translate general and legal correspondence.
- Participate in regular team meetings and work collaboratively to meet short- and long-term team goals.
- Support the timely dissemination of information within the organization as appropriate.
- Other responsibilities as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor's degree plus one to two years of relevant professional experience.
- Fluent in oral and written Spanish, including experience using Spanish in a work environment or comparable setting. French or Portuguese language skills are a plus.
- Consistent attention to detail and a demonstrated ability to multi-task under pressure.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong customer service philosophy and interpersonal skills to work with people from diverse backgrounds.
- Collaborative team player with a good sense of humor.
- Quantitative ability; comfortable working with numbers.
- Administrative experience in an office setting.
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Word. Ability to quickly learn new computer software and data management tools.
- Knowledge of database management and bookkeeping is a plus.
- Passion for Root Capital's mission of environmentally and socially responsible investing.
SALARY: Commensurate with experience.
APPLICATIONS AND NOMINATIONS
More information about Root Capital is available at www.rootcapital.org
Applications are due by March 1, 2010. Candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
Applications including a resume and cover letter describing your interest, qualifications, language abilities, salary requirements, and how you learned of the position should be sent to: jobs@rootcapital.org. Please type "PSA" followed by your name (Last, First) as the subject line of your email (e.g. "PSA - Santos, Elizabeth"). Finalist candidates will be required to provide at least three work-related references.
Root Capital is an equal opportunity employer.
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Organization: Root Capital
Location: Cambridge, MA, US
Supervisor: Director, Marketing and Communications
Start Date: April 2010
Contact: Jen Stine
Director, Human Resources and Administration
jobs@rootcapital.org
SUMMARY
Root Capital seeks a talented and versatile Staff Writer to join the Business Development and External Affairs department. Working closely with the Director of Marketing and Communications as well as senior staff for investor relations, the Writer will be responsible for creating compelling content for marketing materials and grant proposals, while ensuring consistency in branding and messaging. In addition, s/he will develop a knowledge management system to capture and share organizational learning both internally and externally. Candidates holding a Master's Degree are especially encouraged to apply. In addition, candidates should possess: excellent written communication skills with a demonstrated command of grammar, punctuation, and style; four years of experience writing and editing a variety of content, including funding proposals; strong verbal communication and interpersonal skills; intermediate to advanced Spanish writing and conversational skills; the ability and desire to travel to rural areas in the developing countries in which we operate; and a passion for Root Capital's mission of building sustainable livelihoods in rural communities through socially and environmentally responsible investing.
MISSION AND HISTORY OF ROOT CAPITAL
Root Capital's mission is to pioneer finance for grassroots businesses that build sustainable livelihoods and transform rural communities in poor, environmentally vulnerable places.
Root Capital is a nonprofit social investment fund that is pioneering finance for grassroots businesses in rural areas of developing countries. We provide capital, financial education, and market connections to small and growing businesses that build sustainable livelihoods and transform rural communities in poor environmentally vulnerable places.
Through innovative approaches to development finance, Root Capital aims to fill the "missing middle" of finance - serving organizations caught in the gap between microfinance and traditional banking. We provide loans ranging on average from $25,000 to $1,000,000 to rural enterprises and agricultural entrepreneurs that link smallholder farmers and artisans to competitive markets. Since our launch in 1999, we have provided more than $150 million in credit to 254 grassroots enterprises in 30 countries, maintaining a 99% repayment rate from our borrowers and a 100% repayment rate to our investors. Headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Root Capital currently has associated offices in Costa Rica, Mexico, Peru and Kenya.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Develop clear and consistent content for fact sheets, annual reports, donor correspondence, website pages, and similar materials for external outreach activities.
- Write, review, and edit proposals and letters of intent for corporations, foundations, and government agencies in collaboration with relevant staff.
- Conduct research to support writing assignments. Collaborate with staff from different teams and interview clients in the field as needed to gather information for written materials.
- Assist in drafting and/or editing media materials, such as press releases, letters to the editor, briefing materials, and case studies. Assist in developing the messaging in response to relevant events and media coverage.
- Capture, synthesize, and share key organizational information.
- Develop an internal resource library and ensure it remains current with relevant fact sheets, industry reports, and other documents.
- Other responsibilities as needed.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor's degree in English, Journalism, or similar field plus four years of related professional experience, or equivalent combination. Master's degree is preferred.
- Excellent written communication skills with a demonstrated command of grammar, punctuation and style.
- Experience writing and editing grant proposals, plus one or more of the following: newsletter, magazine, press release, website article, fact sheet, presentation, or similar material.
- Ability to communicate complex, technical ideas in a compelling and succinct form for a variety of audiences, such as donors, investors, and partners.
- Strong verbal communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills; ability to gather targeted information from a diverse audience, ranging from partner organizations to smallholder farmers.
- Intermediate to advanced Spanish writing skills. Conversational Spanish skills in order to conduct interviews with clients. Proficiency in French is a plus.
- Ability to work independently and prioritize tasks appropriately.
- Awareness of international development issues and a general knowledge of fundraising. Familiarity with the fields of social enterprise, sustainable agriculture, impact investing, and finance is helpful.
- Experience in knowledge management systems is a plus.
- Ability and desire to travel to the rural regions of the developing countries in which we operate.
- Passion for Root Capital's mission of environmentally and socially responsible investing.
SALARY: Commensurate with experience.
APPLICATIONS AND NOMINATIONS
More information about Root Capital is available at www.rootcapital.org
Applications are due by March 1, 2010. Candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
Applications including a resume and cover letter describing your interest, qualifications, language abilities, salary requirements, and how you learned of the position should be sent to: jobs@rootcapital.org. Brief writing samples are welcome but not required. Please type "Staff Writer" followed by your name (Last, First) as the subject line of your email (e.g. "Staff Writer - Santos, Elizabeth"). Finalist candidates will be required to provide at least three work-related references.
Root Capital is an equal opportunity employer.
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