Strategic Innovative Finance Officer- FT-NOC

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WFP celebrates and embraces diversity. It is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all its employees and encourages qualified candidates to apply irrespective of race, colour, national origin, ethnic or social background, genetic information, gender, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, religion or belief, HIV status or disability.

ABOUT WFP

The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian agency fighting hunger worldwide.  The mission of WFP is to help the world achieve Zero Hunger in our lifetimes.  Every day, WFP works worldwide to ensure that no child goes to bed hungry and that the poorest and most vulnerable, particularly women and children, can access the nutritious food they need.

BACKGROUND

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) is the leading humanitarian organization dedicated to addressing hunger and promoting food security worldwide. As part of its mission, WFP constantly explores innovative financing mechanisms to sustain and expand its operations. The Innovative Finance Officer will play a critical role in identifying, developing, and implementing innovative finance solutions to mobilize resources for WFP’s programs and activities. This TOR outlines the key responsibilities, qualifications, and expectations for the position.

STANDARD MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

QUALIFICATIONS & NEEDED EXPERIENCE

• A minimum of 15 years of progressively responsible experience in finance, including experience in innovative finance, impact investing, or venture capital.
• Demonstrated experience in structuring and closing complex financial transactions.
• Experience in developing and managing partnerships with financial institutions, investors, and philanthropic organizations.
• Knowledge of global financial markets, trends, and emerging financing instruments.
• Experience in the field of international development, humanitarian assistance, or related sectors is desirable.

ORGANIZATIONAL CONTEXT

The Innovative Finance Officer will report to [Country Director] and work closely with relevant units within WFP, including the Finance, Partnerships, and Resource Mobilization teams.

JOB PURPOSE

To develop and manage partnerships with financial institutions, investors, and philanthropic organizations, in addition to structuring and closing complex financial transactions.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES (not all-inclusive)

Developing and implementing innovative finance strategies:
– Conducting comprehensive research and analysis to identify innovative finance opportunities in alignment with the most advanced impact investment models.
– Developing strategies to leverage emerging financial instruments, partnerships, and platforms to mobilize resources for WFP.
– Assessing the feasibility and potential impact of innovative finance initiatives.
Building partnerships and networks:
– Establishing and maintaining productive relationships with financial institutions, Ministry of Finance, impact investors, philanthropic organizations, and other relevant stakeholders.
– Actively participating in relevant conferences, workshops, and forums to promote WFP’s innovative finance agenda.
– Collaborating with internal and external partners to explore and develop innovative financing models.

 Structuring and negotiating innovative finance transactions:
– Designing and structuring innovative finance mechanisms, such as social impact bonds, outcome-based financing, or blended finance instruments.
– Leading negotiations with potential investors and partners to secure funding for WFP programs.
– Ensuring compliance with relevant financial regulations, policies, and reporting requirements.

ADDITIONAL KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Monitoring and evaluation:
– Establishing robust monitoring and evaluation frameworks to assess the impact and effectiveness of innovative finance initiatives.

– Regularly tracking and reporting on the progress, outcomes, and financial performance of innovative finance projects.
– Identifying lessons learned and best practices to inform future initiatives.
Capacity building and knowledge sharing:
– Providing guidance and training to WFP staff and partners on innovative finance concepts and practices.
– Sharing knowledge and lessons learned through internal and external platforms, publications, and networks.
– Contributing to the development of policies, guidelines, and tools related to innovative finance.

DESIRED EXPERIENCES FOR ENTRY INTO THE ROLE

– Strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to assess financial viability and impact of innovative finance solutions.
– Excellent negotiation and communication skills, with the ability to engage and influence diverse stakeholders.
– Proven ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
– Strong project management skills, including the ability to plan, organize, and prioritize tasks effectively.
– Proficiency in relevant financial software and tools.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

This is a one year contract, extension is subject to funding availability and satisfactory performance.

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS

Deadline for submitting the online applications will be on the 14th of January 2024

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WFP has a zero-tolerance approach to conduct such as fraud, sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination. All selected candidates will be expected to adhere to WFP’s standards of conduct and will therefore undergo rigorous background verification internally or through third parties. Selected candidates will also be required to provide additional information as part of the verification exercise. Misrepresentation of information provided during the recruitment process may lead to disqualification or termination of employment

WFP will not request payment at any stage of the recruitment process including at the offer stage. Any requests for payment should be refused and reported to local law enforcement authorities for appropriate action.