VisionFund International (VFI) is a global player in microfinance. They operate in developing countries across different continents, providing microloans to underserved communities. As the financial empowerment arm of World Vision, a relief, development, and advocacy organization, VFI enables communities to improve livelihoods, develop economic activity, improve quality of life, and provide access to education, clean water, nutrition and sanitation. Beyond financial services, VFI also educates clients to grow their businesses and secure the financial livelihood of their families.
Scope
CEVI is VisionFund International’s microfinance partner in The Philippines. Our mandate was to conduct a strategy review for CEVI, exploring growth opportunities for the institution over the next 5 years. The project included research on macro trends and interviews with the client team, validated through a series on branch and client cluster visits. Throughout the four weeks of work, we worked closely with the team to analyze their data and provide a clear view of business and social performance. The objective of the engagement was to develop and flesh out a list of strategic opportunities for CEVI, with the support of VFI.
The CEVI strategy review project was a deeply enriching experience. In our line of work, we are often far removed from the underserved and developing communities. This project was a rare opportunity to apply the skills we develop to a meaningful cause. The client visits were a real eye-opener, and hearing first-hand from poor families about how their lives have been enriched was a sobering reminder of the importance of the work being led by the CEVI teamJerome Tan, Associate, Oliver Wyman
Expected Impact
The project recently concluded, and is expected to be the basis of a Board Strategy Day in early 2018. The project was also important in delivering longer term alignment between the management teams of VFI and CEVI, facilitating improved decision making in the future. The final outcome would be an expansion of the CEVI product offering and branch network, allowing them to serve more communities and deepen their impact.
Microfinance can be a critical part of lifting communities through making funding available in the most remote parts of the world. It’s tremendously exciting that through Oliver Wyman’s partnership with VisionFund we are able to use our expertise to make a tangible contribution to their important workDavid Howard Jones, Partner, Oliver Wyman