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 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. 

Private sector financial development is essential to the promotion of successful and sustainable economies in low- and middle-income countries around the world. Sound and efficient financial markets can ensure that resources are allocated where they are most productive, assisting job creation and spurring economic growth. IFC’s goal is to prioritize investment in the financial sector because it promotes development in all other sectors.

The Financial Institutions Group (FIG) is one of three major industry groups at IFC, responsible for managing roughly 40% of IFC’s overall business in terms of volume and capital at risk.  FIG engages in a wide range of sub-sectors including Microfinance, SME, Gender, Climate, Insurance, Capital Markets, Housing, Distressed Assets, and other areas, with both investment and advisory services delivered globally to IFC’s clients. 

FIG’s Middle East, Central Asia, Turkey, Afghanistan, and Pakistan (MCT) Regional Industry Team is seeking an Investment Officer to be based in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The IO will be expected to identify and execute new investment transactions across the region and to support portfolio supervision. The IO will report to the IFC FIG Principal Investment Officer/Regional Business Lead for the GCC region. 

Roles and Responsibilities

Specific responsibilities include, but are not limited to: 

• Lead the execution of investment projects as appropriate, coordinating with internal and external stakeholders, overseeing the technical as well as strategic aspects of the project
• Lead the portfolio supervision of multiple portfolio projects which may involve restructurings, rescheduling, capital increases, equity sales, etc.
• Use financial competencies and personal influencing skills to overcome impasses and lead negotiations to a successful outcome
• Develop innovative and appropriate financial structures for straightforward transactions and more complex ones, as required
• Work independently and with senior staff to develop a strong pipeline of good-quality investment opportunities by anticipating market trends and employing sector/country knowledge
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, global and regional private businesses, banking, and multilateral partners to further develop the sector and to develop specific investment opportunities
• Support FIG MCT strategy development and implementation
• Coordinate closely with credit, legal, treasury, and other internal support units to find solutions to specific investment or client challenges
• Identify and evaluate opportunities to increase the social development impact of new or portfolio projects
• Mentor more junior staff on all aspects of IO work

Selection Criteria

• MBA or other equivalent master’s degree in finance or management
• 8+ years of experience in finance with a proven track record of sourcing, structuring, and closing investments
• Strong financial and credit skills; demonstrated ability to structure a variety of financial instruments (debt and equity)
• Demonstrated knowledge of industries, industry trends, and opportunities in the sub-region countries, and understanding of local issues
• Business development and client relationship skills, track record, and ability to focus on client’s needs effectively
• Ability to interact directly and independently with the management of potential clients, financial and technical partners as well as government officials
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English. Fluency in Arabic will be a strong plus
• Strong interpersonal skills, and ability to interact effectively with clients and colleagues from various cultural backgrounds
• Genuine commitment to sustainable development and to highest ethical standards
• Willingness to travel extensively

Source: https://worldbankgroup.csod.com/ats/careersite/JobDetails.aspx?id=27580&site=1