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 is enhancing its presence in Western Europe to strengthen and extend its network with the European business community, financial institutions, and governments.  IFC Manufacturing, Agribusiness and Services (MAS) Department, together with the Health and Education (HE) Department, is seeking a Senior/ Investment Officer to head up its business development efforts for MAS / HE in Western Europe.

In this context, MAS / HE is recruiting a Senior/ Investment Officer to develop and oversee new business with Western European clients working in or moving into emerging markets focused on the manufacturing, agribusiness & forestry, health & education, tourism, and retail & property sectors. He/she will work closely with other Investment Officers in Western Europe, with sector teams in Washington, D.C., and with regional industry departments to design strategies and actively support new business development through managing relationships with existing clients and extending the network of new and potential clients. The overall goal of the Senior/ Investment Officer is to maximize the impact of IFC’s interventions and corporate objectives by developing innovative, developmental, and profitable investments for MAS / HE.

Duties and Accountabilities: 
• Lead business development activities in MAS / HE sectors across Western Europe; support the global BD Hub head in building and maintaining strong relationships with key partner and client accounts, (deleted) and other stakeholders to develop new business;
• In collaboration with sector and regional teams, prepare sector mapping to identify business opportunities and target strategic/priority MAS / HE global clients based in Western Europe that have eligible operations and projects in emerging markets that align with the World Bank Group’s goals of development impact, strategic priorities, climate, and environmental, social and governance standards. Develop a relationship of trust with senior executives in these companies and offer the right IFC product mix and value proposition, both in advisory and investment services, to help clients fulfill their business and growth strategies; develop for these companies a client engagement strategy;
• Stay abreast of industry developments and maintain a comprehensive knowledge of the competitive landscape. Maintain close relationships with Industry Specialists to gather knowledge and industry insights to be leveraged in client engagement;
• Lead a team of Investment Officers based in Western Europe;
• Originate investment and advisory opportunities for IFC and continue to provide client relationship support as deals are processed and enter IFC’s portfolio;
• Analyze operational and financial performance of potential client companies; review and screen investment proposals, evaluate the benefits and risks of new transactions, conduct project discussions with clients and assure quality follow-up within IFC as well as with external counterparts;
• Contribute to strategy discussions and lead the implementation of various initiatives;
• Maintain close and daily key client account management and address urgent client issues that require close-at-hand input; be the “one IFC” face to key client account;
• Contribute to activities that advance Western Europe-related business opportunities (e.g., conferences, seminars, representation, training, etc.); mentor more junior staff; undertake corporate and department activities as needed.

Selection Criteria

• MBA finance or equivalent degree;
• Minimum of 8 – 10 years of relevant professional experience in finance with a proven track record of sourcing, structuring, and closing investments;
• Existing relationships and credibility across a broad range of manufacturing, agribusiness and forestry, services, and health and education industry sectors;
• Experience in and deep understanding of the challenges of investing in emerging markets;
• Commitment to development impact and IFC’s mission;
• Proven track record in business development, including developing and maintaining strategic client relationships;
• Excellent financial and credit skills; demonstrated ability to structure a variety of complex financial instruments (debt, equity, sustainability-linked financing);
• Experience working with multilateral and export credit agencies;
• Robust analytical and problem-solving skills to identify issues and present tailored practical solutions.
• Sound business judgment to identify potential and strategic business partners;
• Highest standards of transparency and integrity;
• Ability to interact directly and independently with the senior management of potential clients, business partners, and other stakeholders;
• Strong executive presence;
• Proven track record in mentoring junior investment staff;
• Capacity to deal with conflicting priorities and deliver high-quality work on schedule;
• Ability to work successfully in multicultural teams and across boundaries;
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English; fluency in French;
• Genuine commitment to the highest ethical standards and sustainable development;
• Ability 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.