Investment Officer – GF

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.

The Central Africa Sub-region includes Cameroun, Central African Republic, Chad, Democratic Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Republic of Congo, and Sao Tome & Principe. The Country office reports to the Regional Director, Western and Central Africa.

The IFC Douala Country Office is seeking to recruit an Investment Officer to be based in Douala working on the 5 countries under coverage. Reporting to the Country Manager, the Investment Officer will conduct a wide variety of corporate and Project Finance activities including projects generation and supervision. This involves the preparation of presentations and pitch books for IFC’s participation in workshops, conferences, and high-level meetings; intensive relationship management with government and business representatives; contribution to strategy formulation, as well as data management and knowledge dissemination.

Role & Responsibilities:

• Proactively develop a strong pipeline of good quality investment opportunities through origination and business development anticipating market trends and employing sector/country knowledge.

• Develop market knowledge to ensure that IFC is working with the development partners and sponsors.

• Take accountability for client selection and conduct the integrity due diligence of potential sponsors. Develop and maintain relationships with potential clients and identify business opportunities, while considering IFC’s strategy, priorities, and products.

• Demonstrate or quickly acquire a thorough understanding of the countries, provide market intelligence and analysis, and develop strong business networks

• Build and maintain strong relationships with portfolio clients, global and regional private businesses (in financial and real sectors), multilateral partners, and government officials to further develop investment opportunities in economic sectors with high developmental impact.

• Strategy formulation in collaboration with the Country Manager, and maintain collaborative working relationships across the WBG.

• Monitoring portfolio projects in collaboration with Industries teams.

• Develop a strong understanding, and actively market and utilize IFC’s Advisory Services’ offering (AS).

• Prepare relevant strategy papers, briefs, summaries, working papers, reports, and promotional materials for internal and external users, in coordination with the Communications Team.

• Facilitate information flow from Managers, Country Officers to the Country Manager ensure consistent resolution of administrative issues.

• Support office administration as needed.

• Provide in-country support, and subsequent follow-up to IFC visiting missions as needed.

• Perform other such duties as may be required from time to time to meet emerging, ad-hoc corporate requirements, and/or respond to internal or external requests.

Selection Criteria

• MBA, Masters degree in one or more of the following disciplines: Business, Economics, Finance or Business Management;

• At least 6 – 8 years professional experience in positions of increasing complexity and responsibility that includes significant experience in finance, investment banking, structured finance, or corporate finance, with a proven track record of sourcing, structuring and closing investments. Experience working with both the public and private sectors is a plus.

• Experience in investment transaction, with proven success in developing client relationships as well as sourcing, negotiating, structuring, and closing quality investments.

• Knowledge of and experience in financial markets.

• Knowledge and experience of Central African markets is a plus.

• Strong business judgment in identifying potential business partners.

• Strong financial and credit skills; sound business judgment and demonstrated ability to structure a variety of complex financial instruments (debt and equity).

• Client relationship skills, track record and ability to focus on client needs effectively.

• Ability to interact directly and independently with the senior management of clients, financial and technical partners as well as senior government officials.

• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills, ability to work successfully in multicultural teams and across boundaries and to build networks across the region, including the ability to mentor and coach others to achieve results.

• Excellent organizational, administrative, and time management skills;

• Proven ability to work independently and deliver promptly and efficiently under pressure and meet tight deadlines;

• Willingness to travel extensively and geographic flexibility;

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English and French.

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.

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