Senior Operations Officer/ Senior Investment Officer (GEID)

Job Posting Organization:
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a member of the World Bank Group and is recognized as the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. Established to promote economic development through the private sector, IFC operates in over 100 countries worldwide. The organization aims to leverage its capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities that can help end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity on a livable planet. IFC is committed to advancing gender equality and economic inclusion, as outlined in its 2030 Roadmap for Gender and Inclusion, which seeks to foster private sector partnerships and programs that accelerate gender equality and inclusion in emerging markets. The organization is dedicated to addressing critical issues such as gender-based violence and economic barriers to entrepreneurship and employment, thereby enhancing the overall economic landscape.

Job Overview:
The Senior Operations Officer/Senior Investment Officer (GEID) position is a pivotal role within the Gender and Economic Inclusion Department (GEID) of IFC, focusing on the West and Central Africa region. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing the delivery of existing portfolio projects while ensuring high-quality service provision to both internal and external clients. This role requires a strategic approach to identifying and embedding gender and economic inclusion solutions within investment and advisory projects. The officer will collaborate with various IFC industry teams to design and implement coordinated country-level programs that address gender barriers and deliver measurable outcomes. Additionally, the position involves advising sub-regional and country management on gender issues, supporting fundraising efforts, and overseeing donor reporting from a gender perspective. The officer will also play a key role in mentoring and managing regional operations staff, fostering a community of gender experts, and ensuring effective onboarding of new hires.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Operations Officer/Senior Investment Officer include managing the delivery of existing portfolio projects in the West and Central Africa region, ensuring high-quality services to clients, and maintaining strong internal project governance. The officer will be tasked with delivering client projects and managing relationships across the subregion, while also identifying opportunities to include gender and economic inclusion solutions in existing and pipeline projects. This includes leading collaborations with IFC industry teams to design and deliver country-level programs that address gender barriers. The officer will provide strategic advice to sub-regional and country management on gender issues, support the communications team on gender topics, and assist in fundraising and donor relationship management. Furthermore, the officer will oversee the recruitment and mentoring of regional operations staff, ensuring effective performance management and onboarding processes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for this position should possess a Master's degree in economics, finance, business, or a relevant discipline. A minimum of 12 years of professional experience in private sector development within emerging markets is required, with a focus on gender and inclusion. The ideal candidate will have experience in structuring investment and advisory projects, including developing results frameworks to capture gender and inclusion outcomes. A broad understanding of gender and economic inclusion topics is essential, along with the ability to engage with credibility and confidence across various stakeholders. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as excellent oral and written communication abilities in both English and French, are critical for success in this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in a relevant field such as economics, finance, or business. This advanced degree is essential to equip the candidate with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of private sector development and gender inclusion in emerging markets.

Experience:
The position requires at least 12 years of professional experience in private sector development, particularly in emerging markets. Candidates should have a proven track record of decision-making responsibility and experience in managing staff and projects. The ability to self-manage, multitask, and work under time constraints is crucial, as is a successful history of delivering quality outputs and inspiring others to achieve project goals.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, with strong oral and written communication skills required. Additionally, knowledge of French is preferred, as it will facilitate communication with stakeholders in the West and Central Africa region. The ability to articulate ideas clearly and confidently in both languages is essential for effective collaboration and engagement with various partners and clients.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an international recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 3 years. The role is full-time and involves significant interaction with both internal and external stakeholders. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical and life insurance, paid leave, and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusiveness, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees regardless of gender, identity, or background.