Principal, Donor Partnerships

Job Posting Organization:
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is a pioneering international financial institution that was established in 199

• Its mission is to foster the transition towards open market-oriented economies and promote private and entrepreneurial initiative in countries from Central Europe to Central Asia. The EBRD operates in over 30 countries, employing a diverse workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. The organization is committed to sustainable development and aims to support projects that enhance the economic growth and stability of the regions it serves.

Job Overview:
The Principal in the Donor Partnerships team at the EBRD will play a crucial role in advancing the EU Pillar scorecard. This position involves overseeing a portfolio of EU-funded instruments that are essential for supporting EBRD investments and facilitating policy dialogue within EU member states. The Principal will have operational responsibilities related to the InvestEU programme, particularly focusing on the EU guarantee instrument, as well as other significant EU funding frameworks such as the EU Structural and Investment Funds (ESIF), the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), the Technical Support Instrument (TSI), and Horizon Europe. The role requires a strong understanding of EU institutions, financial instruments, and development financing, as well as a collaborative approach to working with internal teams, EU counterparts, and national authorities. The Principal will be expected to drive the expansion and effective management of these instruments, ensuring successful implementation and alignment with EBRD's strategic priorities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Principal will be responsible for developing and expanding guarantee and grant programmes that support EBRD investments in EU member states, with a strong emphasis on mobilising private sector co-financing. The role includes providing operational support to the InvestEU team within Donor Partnerships and Banking on guarantees management, deployment, and associated reporting. The Principal will contribute to the preparation of operational manuals, fact sheets, templates, forms, and tools to facilitate the successful implementation of the InvestEU programme. Additionally, the Principal will serve as the Fund Manager for various EU grant-funded programmes, overseeing existing resources and pursuing additional fundraising opportunities. Identifying and assessing new EU funding opportunities will also be a key responsibility, which includes collaboration with EBRD Resident Offices and national authorities in EU member states on EU instruments under shared management. The Principal will support the Associate Director in ensuring that risks associated with individual programmes are appropriately identified, managed, and documented in legal agreements. Furthermore, the Principal will contribute to a coherent strategy for the deployment and fundraising of EU guarantee and blending instruments, staying informed about EBRD’s sectoral, geographical, and thematic priorities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in economics, finance, business administration, or a related discipline. A CFA qualification is desirable. Relevant work experience in a private commercial bank or development finance institution is essential, particularly in the area of unfunded financial instruments such as guarantees. A demonstrable understanding of international development policy and practice is required, along with extensive experience working with donors, especially the European Union. Candidates should have a thorough understanding of the Bank’s business model, strategies, policies, and organisation, as well as detailed knowledge and/or a strong interest in the functioning of EU institutions. Proven strong analytical and numerical skills are critical, with the ability to interpret, summarise, and present data and information effectively. The ability to work effectively as a team member, meet deadlines, and perform under time pressure is also necessary. Excellent written and oral communication skills in English are mandatory.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in economics, finance, business administration, or a related field. Candidates with a CFA qualification will have an advantage, as it demonstrates a higher level of expertise in analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">financial analysis and investment management.

Experience:
The position requires relevant work experience in a private commercial bank or development finance institution, particularly in the area of unfunded financial instruments such as guarantees. Candidates should have a strong background in international development policy and practice, with extensive experience working with donors, particularly the European Union. This experience is crucial for understanding the complexities of EU funding mechanisms and the operational aspects of managing donor partnerships.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English, with excellent written and oral communication skills required. While not mandatory, proficiency in additional languages, particularly those spoken in EU member states, would be considered an asset and could enhance the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a regular contract with a contract length that is not specified. The role is based in London, United Kingdom, and the application deadline is set for 20th August 202

• The EBRD promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages all qualified candidates to apply, regardless of their background. The organization values employee wellbeing and offers a comprehensive suite of competitive benefits, along with a hybrid workplace that emphasizes flexibility and connectedness.