Investment Officer

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.

IFC has embarked on an ambitious new growth strategy, the outcome of which will be to double our volume of business by 2030 and triple the work we do in low-income countries (LICs) and Fragile and Conflict-affected States (FCS). To do so, IFC must deploy its full range of financing, mobilization, advisory, convening and thought leadership skills. This also calls for generating our opportunities by proactively working “Upstream” to create, deepen, and expand markets and opportunities for the private sector and to imagine, design and implement investment projects. This strategy also relies on a closer WBG collaboration through the “Cascade” approach: working with clients; we will first seek private sector solutions to address development challenges—where such solutions are advisable and can be effective—and reserve public financing for projects only when other options are suboptimal.

• The Infrastructure and Natural Resources (INR) Industry is one of IFC’s key strategic priorities. The team delivers financial and technical support to clients in the power, transport, telecom media & technology, municipal and environmental infrastructure sectors from IFC’s own Balance Sheet and through mobilization of other capital. The department also seeks to maintain IFC, as part of the World Bank Group, at the cutting edge of helping member countries find solutions to new and emerging infrastructure and natural resource issues.
• IFC’s priorities in Asia for INR are to (i) grow business in the region and achieve strong profitability and impact; (ii) build new and nurture existing client relationships to make IFC the preferred partner for key clients; (iii) manage the portfolio of assets for strong profitability and impact; (iv) support local companies, while improving transparency and corporate governance; (v) catalyze foreign investment, including mobilizing B loans and parallel loans; (vi) introduce and develop new financial products; (vii) build long-term partnerships with strong regional players and (viii) develop client, sector and country-level solutions that can be scaled and replicated.
• Position Overview: This role involves identifying, structuring, and executing infrastructure-related investment opportunities. The officer will work closely with internal and external stakeholders to drive project success and ensure alignment with IFC’s strategic objectives.
• This position is based in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Key Responsibilities:

Investment Identification and Structuring:

• Identify investment opportunities in the infrastructure sector.
• Conduct thorough due diligence, including financial modeling, risk assessment, and market analysis.
• Structure and negotiate investment deals, ensuring they meet IFC’s investment criteria and strategic goals.

Project Management:

• Lead and manage investment projects from inception to closing.
• Coordinate with legal, environmental, social, and technical teams to ensure comprehensive project evaluation.
• Monitor and report on the performance of existing investments, providing insights and recommendations for improvements.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector partners, financial institutions, and other development organizations.
• Represent IFC in industry forums, conferences, and meetings to promote the organization’s mission and objectives.

Market Analysis and Strategy Development:

• Conduct market research and analysis to identify trends, opportunities, and challenges in the infrastructure sector.
• Develop and implement strategies to expand IFC’s footprint in these sectors in  South Asia.

Capacity Building and Knowledge Sharing:

• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior team members.
• Share knowledge and best practices within the team and across IFC.

Selection Criteria

• Education: Master’s degree in finance, business, economics or a related field.
• Experience: At least 8-12 years of relevant experience in investment banking, project finance, private equity, or a similar role, with a strong focus on infrastructure projects.

Technical Skills:

• Proficient in financial modeling, valuation, and risk assessment.
• Strong understanding of the infrastructure markets in South Asia.
• Analytical Skills: Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think strategically and creatively.
• Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely.
• Interpersonal Skills: Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders, including senior executives, government officials, and industry experts.
• Language Skills: Fluency in English is required; knowledge of local languages is an advantage.

Source: https://worldbankgroup.csod.com/ats/careersite/JobDetails.aspx?id=28917&site=1