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. Our mission is to leverage the power of the private sector to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity on a livable planet. For more information, visit www.ifc.org.

Manufacturing, Agribusiness, and Services (MAS) is one of IFC’s key industry groups responsible for a significant portion of IFC’s business volume, profitability, and development reach. MAS engages in a wide range of sub-sectors, including manufacturing, chemicals, healthcare, education, property, retail, tourism, agribusiness, and forestry, among others, with investment and advisory services delivered globally to IFC’s clients through its global network. The position will be based in Panama City, Panama.

The MAS Latin America and the Caribbean (MAS LAC) team seeks a qualified and experienced Senior Investment Officer to originate, structure, and execute investments based in Central America and the Caribbean (CA&C) region. The Investment Officer will also have country-specific responsibilities. Through an extended local presence, MAS LAC aims to increase the level of investments and engagements with new clients through comprehensive value-added propositions, including mainstream, advisory, and upstream initiatives. This role offers a unique opportunity to develop local relationships and gain a deep understanding of the local business environment, which will be core to this position.

ROLES AND RESPONSABILITIES:

Business development for MAS

•  Together with the CA&C Hub Lead, coordinate business development efforts with the region, with special focus on certain countries as the Country Lead for such countries.
•  As the Country lead, acts as a central figure in aligning and executing the strategic vision for the MAS sectors within the designated country in close coordination with the Hub Lead. This role requires a keen understanding of country dynamics, the ability to integrate local insights into broader strategic frameworks of the MAS sectors, and the ability to act as a focal point for MAS in the country, reporting to the Hub Lead.
•  Lead the scoping process and identify priority companies to target as desired IFC clients in the country, considering the strategic areas of focus in Central America and the Caribbean.
•  Actively develop a local network with target companies, financial institutions, financial advisors and credit agencies in the region.
•  Engage in local sector events to represent IFC as part of the business development activities.
•  Considering the potential client’s needs and IFC priorities, structure bankable transactions, and prepare and present IFC Investment proposals to clients.
•  Clearly articulate the utilization of Blended Finance when applicable
•  Lead the presentation of PDS-Concepts through the approval process.
•  Negotiate, suggest required modifications, and ensure the signing of new mandate letters for bankable and impactful transactions.
•  Actively manage relationships with targeted clients.

Process investment projects 

•  Lead structuring, negotiation, and processing of MAS transactions in the region, from mandate to disbursement, including client relationship management.
•  Support pipeline delivery to meet established targets and KPIs across MAS for the CA&C Hub.

Undertake project supervision

•  Provide financial analysis, market and industry assessments and make recommendations on selected transactions.
•  Identify and monitor relevant issues that may affect IFC’s portfolio quality.
•  As necessary, process waiver or other types of actions.

Support and mentor more junior staff and new appointments

•  Coach and mentor analysts/associates in the field office during IFC’s process cycle (new business and portfolio)
•  Guide more junior staff in IFC career management with the goal of making colleagues bring their best delivery and make the most professional development while at IFC.
•  Support dissemination of best practices within the team.

Selection Criteria

•  MBA or Master’s degree in a related field and at least 8–12 years of relevant experience in finance with a proven track record of sourcing, structuring, and closing investments, preferably across MAS sectors.
•  Extensive experience in financing and supervision work.
•  Strong financial and credit skills; demonstrated ability to structure a variety of financial instruments and process complex transactions.
•  Business development and client relationship skills, track record, and ability to effectively focus on client’s needs. Ability to interact directly and independently with the management of clients and prospects.
•  Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English.
•  Fluency in Spanish required.
•  Strong interpersonal skills and ability to interact effectively with clients and colleagues from various cultural backgrounds.
•  Ability to mentor more junior staff.
•  Genuine commitment to sustainable development and highest ethical standards.
•  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.