Principal Investment Officer, Financial Institutions Group – GH

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 Financial Institutions Group (FIG) is one of the major industry groups at IFC, responsible for managing roughly 50% 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, Payments, fintech, and other areas, with both investment and advisory services delivered to IFC’s clients through IFC’s global network.

IFC’s priorities in FIG as an industry group are: (i) grow investment and advisory solutions in all regions it operates while achieving strong profitability and development impact; (ii) build new and nurture existing client relationships to make IFC the preferred partner for key clients; (iii) manage a 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, parallel loans, and other forms of capital mobilization; (vi) introduce and develop new financial solutions, products, and platforms; (vii) build long-term partnerships with strong regional players; (viii) develop client, sector and country-level solutions through upstream and downstream interventions that can be scaled and replicated; and (ix) be a thought leader and innovator of products and client solutions globally.

FIG Southern Cone and Brazil Region Team seeks a Principal Investment Officer based in the Santiago, Chile office with significant market and industry experience to help grow and develop its business in Chile, Uruguay and Argentina.

Duties and Accountabilities

• Develop and implement sectoral vision and strategies, creating actionable business growth plans for both investment and advisory services, and delivering measurable outcomes aligned with IFC’s mission.

• Lead the identification of high-potential clients and strategic partnerships to create innovative transaction solutions, resolving challenges and unlocking opportunities in new and emerging markets.

• Spearhead upstream market creation initiatives by engaging with senior government officials, industry leaders, and WBG stakeholders to drive regulatory reforms and catalyze private sector investments in the most challenging environments, including IDA and FCS countries.

• Build and nurture high-level client relationships (C-suite level) with a focus on global and regional opportunities, ensuring long-term strategic partnerships.

• Lead the structuring and negotiation of complex transactions, ensuring alignment with IFC’s risk-reward framework and development impact goals.

• Oversee and manage a portfolio of highly complex or strategically significant projects, ensuring quality control and driving progress through internal approval processes.

• Act as a mentor and coach, developing team members through on-the-job learning, formal training sessions, and by providing actionable feedback.

• Proactively leverage cross-functional teams and networks across IFC, WBG, and external stakeholders to foster knowledge-sharing and implement innovative solutions.

• Serve as a thought leader within IFC, contributing to the organization’s voice and influence in global markets, promoting IFC’s strategic priorities, and shaping new approaches to private sector development.

Selection Criteria

• Education: Master’s degree in Business, Finance, Economics, or a related field. A minimum of 15 years of relevant experience, with a proven track record in investment banking, business consulting, or operational experience in a technical or professional field.

• Leadership and Strategy: Demonstrated ability to develop and execute strategies that deliver business growth and market creation. Experience managing cross-functional teams and influencing key stakeholders.

• Technical Expertise: Deep understanding of IFC’s instruments and financial products, as well as market trends and opportunities in emerging markets. Proven experience structuring complex transactions and mitigating risks effectively.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Ability to engage credibly with high-level government officials, industry leaders, and development partners to advocate for private sector investment and drive reforms.

• Client Management: Extensive experience building and maintaining strategic, high-level client relationships, particularly with global and regional players.

• Communication Skills: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex issues clearly and influence a diverse range of stakeholders.

• Team Development: Commitment to mentoring and coaching staff, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous learning within the team.

• Global Perspective: A strong understanding of global and regional market dynamics, particularly in IDA and FCS contexts, and the ability to translate these into actionable business opportunities.

• Languages: Fluency in English and Spanish is required.

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.

How cinfo Can Support You in the Application Process for This Position

• Application and Interview Preparation: Whether you’re preparing your application documents or getting ready for an interview, you can book a Job Application Support session to receive tailored guidance.
• For Swiss nationals invited to the first round of the selection process (e.g., written test, interview, assessment center): Notify us at recruitment@cinfo.ch, and we will inform our HR partners in the respective organization and the Swiss Government to help increase your visibility.