Principal Operations Officer- Foundations and Philanthropies – 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. For more information, visit www.ifc.org.

 The Partnerships and Fundraising (CBFPF) unit within IFC’s Economics & Private Sector Development Vice Presidency supports IFC operations by fundraising for IFC priority areas and maintaining ongoing relationships with development partners, including bilateral and multilateral sovereign partners, foundations and private philanthropies. In addition to directly engaging with partners to support IFC activities, the unit facilitates partnership development across IFC and advises all IFC operational units on establishing and maintaining meaningful partnerships that help furthering IFC’s strategic objectives. 

IFC is seeking a dynamic, senior, impact-oriented professional to establish and grow partnerships with foundations, philanthropies, family offices, and other non-sovereign organizations.  This is an exciting opportunity to develop new strategic partnerships for IFC and drive meaningful impact in the lives of people around the world.   

The successful candidate will have professional experience working in or closely with global foundations and philanthropies. S/he will have a demonstrated track record in fundraising, fostering innovative partnerships in the international development space, and in working collaboratively across institutional boundaries to deliver successful outcomes. The position reports to the Senior Manager for Partnerships, and will be based in Washington, DC, United States.

Duties & Accountabilities:

Specific responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

•  Develop and implement a multi-year strategy for building partnerships with private foundations, philanthropies and other non-sovereign donors to advance IFC’s operational strategy. This includes identifying and establishing relationships with potential new partners for IFC globally and working closely with staff in the IFC Blended Finance and Partnerships team, as well as IFC investment staff based in regions.

•  Oversee, grow and lead the Philanthropies team within the Partnerships and Fundraising unit to achieve its objectives for significantly growing IFC’s relationships with private foundations, philanthropies, family offices and other non-sovereign donors around the world.

• Develop and scale new and current bilateral partnerships with large foundations both as collaborative partners as well as contributors to IFC’s concessional funding landscape.

•  Engage Donor Advised Funds (DAFs) and high net worth individuals (HNWI) and High net worth families (HNWF) and family offices, and the networks that convene these individuals and offices.

•  Lead the development of internal operational solutions for IFC to accept funding from these potential partners, including through vehicles that pose potential changes to financial and operational controls to ensure compatibility of IFC’s policies with those of new donors.

•  Establish active collaboration and leverage the resources and expertise of philanthropic partners to advance IFC’s mission and create positive impact in emerging markets.

•  Work collaboratively with IFC colleagues in investment operations, Blended Finance, and other departments to harness their expertise and assistance in establishing and growing partnerships with philanthropies and foundations

•  Raise funds from philanthropic partners that will support the implementation of IFC’s strategy and act as a catalyst for the relationship with all private philanthropies and foundations, and other non-traditional donors.   

•  Lead briefings for executive missions and speeches, public appearances, and other activities involving external and internal audiences in support of the relationships with partners and donors.

•  Maintain close coordination and liaise with the World Bank’s partnerships team(s).

•  Coordinate budgets and donor reporting in collaboration with IFC’s Advisory Portfolio, Trust Funds, Partnerships, and Finance teams.

Selection Criteria

•  A minimum of 15 years relevant experience with master’s degree in a relevant field.

•  Strong business development and client relationship skills; track record and ability to focus on client needs effectively.

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

•  Good knowledge and understanding of the landscape of development finance donors, particularly private philanthropies, foundations and non-traditional donors.

•  Experience working at or knowledge of multilateral institutions, platforms, and initiatives, with demonstrated evidence of support for strategic interventions/engagement to advance private sector development issues in emerging markets. 

•  Ability to quickly acquire knowledge of IFC’s business (i.e., a proven track record of investment and advisory engagement in emerging markets), policies, and global strategy. 

•  Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English with the ability to represent IFC externally. 

•  Excellent business judgment and strong analytical and problem-solving skills to identify issues and present creative, practical solutions.

•  Highly motivated and committed to the highest ethical standards. 

•  Strong interpersonal skills and ability to interact effectively with clients and colleagues from various cultural backgrounds.

•  Demonstrated skills in leading and working in teams, delivering products and commitments, and working across boundaries. 

•  Ability and willingness to travel.

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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