Counterpart International seeks a Private Sector and Sustainability Specialist to support its five-year USAID-funded program Climate Adaptation Activity (CAA) in the Dominican Republic. The CAA program seeks to build locally led, long-term resilience to climate change by promoting sustainable livelihoods and water security, which should result in significant environmental gains in the Dajabon watershed, beyond the province and into Haiti. By engaging communities, leveraging private funding and public resources, enabling data informed decision-making, and building diverse partnerships grounded in inclusion and market-based approaches, the Climate Adaptation Activity will accelerate sustainable social, economic, and environmental outcomes.

The Private Sector and Sustainability Specialist is responsible for identifying market opportunities and increasing the participation of financial institutions and the private sector to realize project financial sustainability outcomes. The Private Sector and Sustainability Specialist position is based in the Dominican Republic. This position will report to Technical Director.

Responsibilities

• Conduct market research and analysis to identify potential opportunities for private sector engagement and investment in climate adaptation and sustainable livelihood initiatives.
• Assess market trends, regulatory frameworks, and investment climates to inform strategic decision-making and partnership development.
• Cultivate relationships with donors, financial institutions, corporations, investors, and industry associations to increase their involvement in sustainable initiatives.
• Lead the design and implementation of public-private partnerships, policy interventions, and innovative financing mechanisms to support project goals.
• Develop financial sustainability plans, revenue generation strategies, and cost recovery mechanisms in collaboration with project teams and stakeholders.
• Work closely with program teams and partners to develop and implement financial sustainability plans, revenue generation strategies, and cost-effective solutions for program activities.
• Provide technical expertise and guidance on sustainable finance mechanisms, innovative funding models, and business development opportunities.
• Lead capacity-building initiatives, workshops, and training sessions for program staff, partners, and stakeholders on private sector engagement, sustainable finance, and market-based approaches.
• Facilitate knowledge sharing, best practices dissemination, and lessons learned exercises to enhance project impact and sustainability.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, Sustainability, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in private sector engagement, sustainable finance, impact investing, or corporate sustainability.
• Strong understanding of financial markets, investment strategies, and business development in the context of sustainability.
• Proven track record of building strategic partnerships, negotiating agreements, and mobilizing resources from the private sector.
• Knowledge of sustainable business practices, environmental/social impact assessment, and corporate social responsibility principles.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills with the ability to interact effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience in project management, financial analysis, and budgeting for sustainable initiatives.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools, financial modeling, and impact measurement methodologies.
• Commitment to sustainable development goals, ethical business practices, and social/environmental impact.
• Strong interpersonal skills and work ethic.
• Ability to work with multidisciplinary teams.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in Spanish, English proficiency preferred.