(Associate) Investment Officer - Creative Industries

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, with a mission to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity on a livable planet. IFC's work is crucial in fostering sustainable economic growth and improving living standards in developing countries.

Job Overview:
The Associate Investment Officer position is a pivotal role within IFC, specifically aimed at supporting the delivery of the organization's strategy for the Creative Industries in Africa. This sector encompasses a wide range of industries that originate from individual creativity, skill, and talent, which have the potential to generate wealth and create jobs through the monetization of creative talent. The Creative Industries include sectors such as media and entertainment, sports, fashion, and music, among others. These industries are significant contributors to GDP in emerging markets, representing between 2% and 7%, and they have substantial economic multiplier effects that benefit other sectors like tourism, real estate, and manufacturing. The role requires a proactive approach to identifying and developing investment opportunities that are scalable, innovative, and impactful, particularly focusing on small and early-stage businesses. The Associate Investment Officer will also engage with various stakeholders to promote the Creative Industries as a vital component of economic diversification and job creation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Associate Investment Officer will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties that include:

• Business Development and Pipeline Creation: Originate high-potential investment opportunities in the Creative Industries sector, focusing on scalable and impactful businesses across various subsectors. Engage actively with industry stakeholders to identify trends and opportunities. Collaborate with IFC’s teams to ensure alignment with strategic priorities.
• Transaction Execution: Support the structuring, negotiation, and execution of complex transactions, including equity and debt investments, particularly for small ticket sizes and early-stage companies. Conduct due diligence, including financial modeling and market assessments. Prepare high-quality investment proposals for management approval.
• Upstream and Market Creation: Contribute to efforts that transform concepts into bankable opportunities and identify barriers to growth in the sector. Work with stakeholders to design and implement solutions.
• Knowledge Development and Dissemination: Develop insights into market trends and business models, contributing to thought leadership and representing IFC in external engagements.
• Stakeholder Engagement and Advocacy: Build relationships with key stakeholders to promote IFC’s role in the Creative Industries and advocate for its potential in economic diversification and social inclusion.
• Collaboration with the World Bank Group: Coordinate with World Bank colleagues to leverage synergies and participate in joint initiatives aimed at enhancing the enabling environment for Creative Industries in Africa.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) and a strong interest in Africa’s development, particularly in the Creative Industries. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to supporting entrepreneurship and innovation within cultural sectors. A willingness to travel extensively is essential. Additionally, at least 4 years of relevant experience in Creative Industries or adjacent sectors is required, with roles in venture capital, private equity, investment banking, or development finance. Candidates should possess strong analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">financial analysis and modeling skills, with experience in supporting debt and equity transactions. Strong business judgment for screening investment opportunities is crucial, along with fluency in English and French, and proficiency in Portuguese is desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) or a related field. This educational background is essential to equip the candidate with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of investment in the Creative Industries and to engage effectively with various stakeholders in the sector.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 4 years of relevant experience in the Creative Industries or related sectors. This experience should include roles in venture capital, private equity, investment banking, or development finance, with a focus on early-stage and small-sized transactions. Proven experience in financial analysis and modeling is also required, as well as a demonstrated ability to engage with entrepreneurs and creative sector leaders.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French is mandatory for this position, as these languages are essential for effective communication within the organization and with external stakeholders. Proficiency in Portuguese is considered a valuable asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with a broader range of clients and partners 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 involves extensive travel across Africa. 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 opportunities for all candidates regardless of gender, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.