Operations Analyst, Western Balkans

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 is seeking an Operations Analyst, based in Belgrade, to cover the Western Balkans region, specifically Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia. As a key member of the Regional Team, the Operations Analyst will be responsible for supporting the Regional Manager and Country Officers based in the region. This role will involve research, analytical work, and operational support related to IFC’s activities across the six countries. The Analyst will also support IFC’s efforts in detailed portfolio analysis of investments and advisory services with sponsors and clients based in the region. Additionally, the role includes mapping the business community across the Western Balkans in various sectors, including but not limited to infrastructure and natural resources, manufacturing, agribusiness and services, financial institutions, and VC/Funds.

Duties and Accountabilities

• Extract data from internal and external databases, manipulate, and present the data in various formats for different audiences, ensuring a high degree of accuracy and consistency. The Analyst will be the ‘go-to’ person for data/research and all operational/resource support work for the Western Balkans.
• Support the Regional Team with detailed portfolio analysis of investments and advisory services with sponsors and clients in the region, as well as implementing Hub activities, such as senior management visits and thematic events.
• Conduct mapping and research on the business community in the Western Balkans, including corporate profiles, financial analysis, and initial due diligence on mapped companies. The Analyst will be responsible for maintaining a deal pipeline list of IFC’s investments with sponsors and clients across all sectors in the Western Balkans.
• Prepare marketing materials for the Western Balkans Hub, including pitchbooks for business development, leveraging existing corporate-level and industry-specific knowledge products.
• Review and screen documents/reports relevant to the Country Partnership Frameworks and Country Strategies for the Western Balkans and prepare progress reports and any other documentation or materials as required.
• Liaise and interact effectively with an extensive network of contacts at senior levels (both internal and external) and respond effectively to inquiries and diverse situations requiring judgment, tact, and pragmatic problem-solving skills. A strong network of contacts within the government stakeholders and the business community across the Western Balkans is essential.
• Under the guidance of the Western Balkans Regional Manager, advise project teams on the regional context, IFC’s role, strategic fit, World Bank Group objectives, local markets, pipeline, and portfolio.
• Support the Western Balkans Regional Manager with overall project management, planning, and monitoring of deliverables to ensure the timely and quality delivery of the work program. The Analyst must maintain a high degree of discretion and professionalism.
• Monitor the portfolio and conduct internal and external reporting. Provide any other assistance needed by the Western Balkans Regional Manager for the day-to-day coordination of activities.
• Maintain a good working knowledge of current advisory and investment operations across the Western Balkans and respond promptly to queries from management and staff.
• Construct and maintain reports to analyze and report on operational and development impact performance of the Western Balkans Hub.
• Prepare presentations and reports to present information and analysis to various audiences.
• Provide research/analytical support for work products and on assignments that may arise as directed by the Western Balkans Regional Manager.

Selection Criteria

• Undergraduate degree in Economics, Finance, Business, or a similar field. A Master’s degree is preferred.
• Solid understanding of the organization of key players in the governments of the Western Balkans.
• Experience working with the private sector in the Western Balkans and an established relevant network.
• At least two years of work experience in banking, consulting, or another fast-paced, knowledge-based work environment.
• Advanced Excel, PowerPoint, and database skills.
• Excellent writing and oral communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail and quality.
• Excellent teamwork skills, with the ability to take initiative and work across organizational boundaries. High energy with strong professionalism, maintaining confidentiality and using discretion when required.
• Familiarity with IFC databases (such as MIS, RMS, and other iDesk applications) is an advantage.
• Experience with IFC strategy and budgeting processes is an advantage.
• Ability to thrive under pressure and function effectively in a fast-paced environment with tight deadlines while working on multiple projects.
• World Bank Group Core Competencies

Source: https://worldbankgroup.csod.com/ats/careersite/JobDetails.aspx?id=28966&site=1