Description

IFC — a member of the World Bank Group — is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. We work in more than 100 countries, using our capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries. In fiscal year 2023, IFC committed a record US$43.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging the power of the private sector to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity as economies grapple with the impacts of global compounding crises. For more information, visit www.ifc.org.

Context of the Position

IFC is recruiting for a Senior Communications Officer to lead the external and internal communications program for the Economics and Private Sector Development Vice Presidency. This Vice Presidency has approximately 220 staff that produce economics research reports related to private sector development, on topics that include climate, trade, digitalization, and financial market development; conduct development impact assessments for all IFC investments and report on IFC’s development outcomes; and lead IFC external partnerships and blended finance operations.

The Senior Communications Officer for Economics and Private Sector Development will be responsible for leading external and internal communications, including; media and launch events for IFC reports and publications; communicating IFC’s development impact to external audiences; organizing academic conferences in collaboration with leading universities; creating and placing articles and op eds in a variety of business and economics journals, blogs, and newspapers; producing a monthly internal newsletter for all staff; overseeing social media; and coordinating with the IFC and World Bank Group communications network.

The Senior Communications Officer for Economics and Private Sector Development will be supported by a Communications Officer, other colleagues in IFC’s Communication & Outreach Department, and external consultants as needed. The position will report to a Manager in the Communications department and be based in IFC headquarters in Washington DC.

Role and Responsibilities:

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced and seasoned business and economics communications professional to lead the planning, development, and implementation of communications and outreach strategies for the Economics and Private Sector Development Vice Presidency. Specific work areas include the following:

Products:
•  Conceptualizes and supervises the launch and dissemination of IFC flagship  reports (e.g., media packets, news releases, talking points and Q&As, online, and social media content, speeches, etc.).
•  Writes and/or oversees preparation of articles and op eds related to IFC reports, as well as of high-profile speeches and presentations.
•  Develops and implements a social media strategy in collaboration with the Head of Digital Communications.

Networks:
•  Initiates effective professional relationships with key stakeholders, including economics and business media and other constituencies to raise IFC’s visibility. This will include working with country-based Communications colleagues on local media around the world.
•  Contributes to developing and maintaining IFC relationships with leading global organizations, including international development banks and think tanks, philanthropies, and influencers.

Events:
•  Oversees planning, coordination, and messaging, often across multiple teams, for press briefings, IFC-organized conferences, and seminars, public or broadcast appearances, and other communications-related activities involving external and/or internal audiences.

Internal Engagement:
•  Leads development and execution of an internal staff communication strategy to foster cohesion and information flows within the vice presidency and between the products of the vice presidency and IFC operations colleagues. This includes a monthly internal newsletter, quarterly update to operational staff, and a speakers’ series that brings high-level business and economics leaders to IFC staff.

Risk management:
•  Supports risk identification and mitigation activities in the context of corporate and operational communication interventions; advises specific internal and external stakeholders. Focus includes current events, public opinion, social or political issues, and other external or internal developments related to IFC’s thematic work.

Selection Criteria

•  Master’s degree in communications, Journalism, Economics, Political Science, Business/Finance, or related field.
•  8 or more years of experience in business/economics journalism, corporate communications, or international relations/public affairs.
•  Excellent writing skills on topics related to economics and international development, with an ability to distill complex information for a general business audience.
•  Understanding of current development and international economics topics and issues.
•  High energy, drive, and ability to work with minimal oversight in delivering the work program.
•  Demonstrated ability to develop compelling content based on economics and development trends, case studies and innovations in communications products in a compelling, easy-to-understand manner.
•  Proven ability to develop excellent media relationships and partnerships with a range of other organizations, including academia, think tanks, and other international organizations.
•  Self-motivated, creative, excellent organizational skills, proven ability to perform multiple communications tasks, often under tight deadlines.
•  Excellent interpersonal skills with a willingness to work in a team environment.
•  Ability to mentor, supervise, and coach junior staff.
•  Experience cultivating an external network of freelancers/contractors to support the Communications team as needed.

World Bank Group Core Competencies

The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan; medical, life and disability insurance; and paid leave, including parental leave, as well as reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.

We are proud to be an equal opportunity and inclusive employer with a dedicated and committed workforce, and do not discriminate based on gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.

Learn more about working at the World Bank and IFC, including our values and inspiring stories.