Associate Investment Officer - Infrastructure (CAT)

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 by encouraging private sector investment, IFC operates in over 100 countries worldwide. The organization leverages its capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries. In fiscal year 2024, IFC committed a record $56 billion in long-term finance to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, aiming to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity amidst global crises. The organization is currently implementing an ambitious growth strategy known as IFC 3.0, which focuses on generating unique investment opportunities and addressing regulatory and sector bottlenecks that hinder private capital flow into productive investments. This strategy emphasizes collaboration with governments and World Bank colleagues to prioritize private sector solutions for development challenges, reserving public financing for projects only when necessary.

Job Overview:
The Associate Investment Officer will be a key member of IFC’s infrastructure investment team, primarily covering the Middle East, Central Asia, Türkiye, Afghanistan, and Pakistan (MCT Region). The selected candidate will be based in either Karachi, Pakistan, or Istanbul, Turkiye, and will play a crucial role in the investment team throughout the business cycle, which includes business development, upstream activities, new investments, and portfolio management. The position requires a focus on leading and supporting business development efforts, processing, and managing IFC’s investments throughout their lifecycle. The ideal candidate will have experience in gas flaring reduction and methane abatement, which will be considered a plus. The role demands a proactive approach to identifying market trends and investment opportunities, as well as a commitment to sustainable development and the mission of the World Bank Group.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Associate Investment Officer will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: performing credit and risk assessments, conducting financial projections, and reviewing covenant compliance for debt portfolios with limited supervision. The officer will supervise junior staff to ensure the quality of portfolio reporting and provide insights into project risks and issues. Additionally, the officer will lead and coordinate the mapping and screening of business opportunities in infrastructure sectors, conduct market research, and perform integrity checks. The role involves collaborating in the development of client strategies and engagement plans, drafting Concept Review Notes for management discussions, and supporting transaction teams during investment due diligence. The officer will evaluate, structure, negotiate, and close new transactions, coordinate with specialists in various fields to add value to client businesses, and manage portfolio investments, including restructurings and capital increases. Furthermore, the officer will gather market intelligence and analyze portfolio trends to identify emerging risks and opportunities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or an equivalent professional qualification in Business, Finance, Economics, or a related field. A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in infrastructure project investment and financing activities is required, with a proven track record in sourcing, structuring, and closing investments, as well as supervising loan and equity exposures. Strong financial and credit skills are essential, along with the ability to structure various financial instruments, including project finance and corporate debt. Knowledge of infrastructure sectors such as power, transportation, utilities, natural resources, telecoms, and technology is crucial, as is an understanding of local issues in the sub-region countries. Experience in gas flaring reduction and methane abatement is a plus, as is prior experience in IFC/World Bank operational countries in the MCT Region.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree or equivalent professional qualification in relevant fields such as Business, Finance, or Economics. This advanced education is essential to equip the candidate with the necessary analytical and strategic skills required for the role.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of relevant experience in infrastructure project investment and financing activities. Candidates should have a proven track record in sourcing, structuring, and closing investments, as well as experience in supervising loan and equity exposures, including working on restructurings and negotiated exits. This level of experience is critical to ensure the candidate can effectively manage the complexities of investment transactions and portfolio management.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as excellent verbal and written communication skills in English are required. Additionally, proficiency in other languages such as Turkish or Urdu is considered a plus, enhancing the candidate's ability to interact with diverse stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
The position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 3 years. The role is full-time and offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The World Bank Group is committed to being an equal opportunity and inclusive employer, ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly and without discrimination based on gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. The organization values a diverse workforce and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds.