(Senior) Industry Specialist - Global Health

(Senior) Industry Specialist - Global Health

World Bank

September 23, 2025October 5, 2025Washington DcUnited States
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a member of the World Bank Group, which is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries. Established to promote private sector investment in developing countries, IFC has a mission to create markets and opportunities that help reduce poverty and improve living conditions. With a presence in over 100 countries and a workforce of more than 3,000 employees, IFC is dedicated to fostering sustainable economic growth through private sector development. The organization operates in various sectors, including health, infrastructure, and financial services, and is committed to leveraging its capital, expertise, and influence to address global challenges. In fiscal year 2025, IFC committed a record $71.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, demonstrating its significant role in mobilizing private capital for development. For more information, visit www.ifc.org.

Job Overview:
The (Senior) Industry Specialist - Global Health position at IFC is designed for an experienced professional with a deep understanding of the health sector, particularly in services, life sciences, and medtech. The role involves leading advisory initiatives within the Global Health unit, which is part of the Global Disruptive Technologies, Services and Funds department. The specialist will be responsible for managing various advisory programs, including Digihealth/Digipharma, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality client and knowledge management outputs. The position requires collaboration with the World Bank and other partners to explore opportunities for digital transformation in health services. The specialist will also engage with clients to identify sector-specific risks and develop mitigation strategies, contributing to the overall goal of enhancing access to affordable, quality healthcare in emerging markets. This role is critical in supporting IFC's investment and advisory activities, as well as in shaping policy reforms and public sector initiatives that catalyze private sector contributions to health goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the (Senior) Industry Specialist - Global Health include:
  • Leading advisory and program management initiatives, ensuring high-quality deliverables and compliance with governance and reporting requirements.
  • Exploring collaboration opportunities with the World Bank and other partners, particularly in digital transformation.
  • Supporting investment origination and pipeline management by assessing needs and opportunities for advisory services in health services and life sciences.
  • Participating in business development activities and providing appraisal support regarding sector-specific risks.
  • Engaging with clients to discuss identified risks and developing appropriate mitigation solutions.
  • Coordinating and supporting the delivery of advisory engagements, ensuring adherence to agreed scopes and timelines.
  • Capturing learnings from client engagements and contributing to knowledge management within IFC.
  • Leading or supporting initiatives such as impact studies and the development of new programs.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the (Senior) Industry Specialist - Global Health position must possess a Master’s or advanced degree in a related field, along with at least 12 years of operational and managerial experience in the private health sector or consultancy for private health companies. A strong understanding of the private sector across the health value chain is essential, as is the ability to identify opportunities and risks, including operational, quality, and ethical risks. Candidates should have a proven track record in managing diverse teams, nurturing client relationships, and resolving complex issues. Experience in business development and managing project budgets and timelines is also required. Excellent communication skills in English are mandatory, with proficiency in Spanish or Portuguese considered a plus.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s or advanced degree in a relevant field, such as public health, health management, business administration, or a related discipline. This advanced education is crucial for understanding the complexities of the health sector and for effectively leading advisory initiatives.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 12 years of relevant experience in operational and managerial roles within the private health sector or in consultancy for private health companies. Candidates should have a strong track record of working with the private sector across the health value chain, demonstrating the ability to identify opportunities and risks effectively. Experience in managing diverse teams and client relationships is essential, as well as a history of successful project management.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization. Proficiency in additional languages, specifically Spanish and Portuguese, is considered advantageous and may enhance the candidate's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders in the health sector.

Additional Notes:
This position is part of an international recruitment effort and is expected to last for a term duration of three years. The role is full-time and may require regular global travel to engage with clients and stakeholders. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunity for all candidates regardless of gender, identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.
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