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 2022, IFC committed a record $32.8 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.

IFC’s Telecom, Media, Technology (TMT) Group, part of the Infrastructure Department, invests in private sector companies in emerging markets globally and has a track record of successful investments in mobile network operators, broadband networks, independent tower companies, submarine cables, data centers, media, and next generation digital infrastructure. IFC is unique for both its regional and global prospective, development focus, long-term approach to investments, ability to leverage the resources of the entire World Bank Group, as well as its commitment to maximizing the value of its portfolio companies through sustained assistance. The Global TMT group works with private sector TMT companies to expand access and usage of broadband connectivity throughout emerging markets with a wide range of investment products from project finance, corporate loans, and bonds on the debt side to equity and quasi-equity.

To grow this business, Global TMT is looking for a Senior Investment Officer with solid sector and investment expertise that can help deepen the scope, reach and impact of IFC’s investments in TMT sectors. The position will report to the Global TMT Manager and work with external clients and partners and World Bank Group teams across regions and disciplines to develop, execute, and manage TMT investments, with a particular focus on broadband investments. The role will be based in Washington, DC.

Duties and Accountabilities:

The responsibilities of the Senior Investment Officer include but are not limited to:

•  Promote IFC’s investments in TMT sectors globally and across the capital structure (equity, mezzanine, or senior debt).
•  Be the primary contact point between IFC’s designated regional departments and the TMT global team regarding investments across specific sub-sectors, particularly broadband (submarine connectivity, terrestrial backhaul, metro and access networks). Work closely with regional departments to deliver IFC’s investment targets and development impact.
•  In cooperation with the regional IFC teams, build a strong pipeline of potential investment opportunities.
•  Identify and support the execution of viable investment transactions which maximize development impact as well as profitability.
•  Lead and/or provide guidance to investment teams as needed on due diligence (valuation, financial, market), risk/mitigation, structuring/negotiations from TMT sectors perspectives.
•  Analyze industry trends and prior transactions to develop input for future business opportunities; disseminate knowledge across the industry group.
•  Develop and implement innovative and appropriate financial structures for complex transactions.
•  Collaborate in developing strategies for various TMT sub-sectors and countries.
•  Lead project teams, mentor and develop junior staff.
•  Develop and drive global client relationships.
•  Drive IFC’s work in sub-sectors and/or cross-cutting initiatives representing the sector group as needs arise including being the primary contact point with regional and functional departments.
•  Gather market intelligence to stay informed of emerging trends in TMT sub-sectors in various countries; Identify business models and opportunities for new approaches that can accelerate private sector participation and development impact within a region.
•  Maintain relationships with clients and other stakeholders (government, development partners, WBG) who are at a level where they can influentially participate in developing immediate and future business opportunities.
•  Help to build and maintain a network of global and regional co-investors and co-lenders to develop specific investment opportunities and to provide funding alongside IFC.
•  Support the World Bank Group’s initiatives targeting increased internet access in under-served regions across emerging markets.

Selection Criteria

•  At least 8-10 years of investment experience (e.g., commercial or investment banking, private equity, or infrastructure funds) with a proven track record of sourcing and closing deals.
•  Extensive experience in the design, implementation, and successful closing of investment transactions.
•  Genuine and strong interest in and commitment to international development;
•  Excellent communication skills in English, both in written and oral; ability to convey ideas and positions clearly; strong presentation skills; Communication skills in French and/or Spanish are desirable.
•  Knowledge of and/or investment experience in TMT sectors, particularly in emerging markets and broadband, is an advantage.
•  MBA or equivalent qualification.
•  Sound business judgment in screening/identifying potential investment opportunities and making go/no-go recommendations.
•  Strong structuring and technical skills; good familiarity with a variety of complex financial structures and instruments for both debt and equity.
•  Understanding of TMT sector trends and key issues, and experience in working with different infrastructure sub-sectors is desirable.
•  Effective teamwork in multi-cultural and multi-location environment and ability/experience with providing guidance, supervision, professional development and quality control of work products and analyses of more junior team members.
•  Strong communication and coordination skills, with a track record of working across organizational boundaries.
•  Ability to interact directly and independently with the senior management of clients, partners, and senior government officials.
•  Capacity to identify and successfully develop market creation opportunities in multiple countries by demonstrating long-term perspective, open-mindedness, persistence, innovation, and ability to leverage all instruments and programs available at the World Bank Group.
•  International exposure, especially to the emerging markets, cultural sensitivity, and willingness to travel extensively.

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.