Senior Country Officer - India

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 focuses on creating markets and opportunities in emerging markets. With a presence in over 100 countries and a commitment of $71.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in fiscal year 2025, IFC plays a crucial role in leveraging private sector solutions to combat poverty and promote sustainable development. The organization is dedicated to ending poverty and increasing shared prosperity through innovative projects and partnerships.

Job Overview:
The Senior Country Officer (SCO) for IFC India will be responsible for managing and growing the existing portfolio, identifying project opportunities, and enhancing the market presence of IFC in India. This role is critical in facilitating the integration of World Bank Group institutions and advancing IFC’s strategic objectives in the country. The SCO will oversee stakeholder relationships, business development, program execution, and operational support, ensuring alignment with the institution’s development impact agenda. The position requires a proactive approach to engage with government stakeholders, regulatory bodies, and private sector partners, while also contributing to the overall mission of the World Bank Group.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Maintain and deepen relationships with key government officials and state-level entities to facilitate project approvals and clearances.
• Lead discussions at state and municipal levels to advance IFC’s work, coordinating closely with World Bank Group counterparts.
• Expand government connections to facilitate high-level meetings and access to priority ministries.
• Engage with regulatory authorities such as the Reserve Bank of India and Securities and Exchange Board of India to support CMU engagement.
• Enhance IFC brand visibility and promote its role and value proposition across various audiences.
• Support business development for investment and advisory projects based on the Country Partnership Framework.
• Conduct due diligence to safeguard IFC’s reputation and mitigate risks.
• Develop strategies for south-south business opportunities and support Indian companies' expansion into other geographies.
• Oversee office administration and ensure smooth operations of IFC India offices. 1
• Participate in interview panels and support new staff onboarding and integration.

Required Qualifications:

• A Master’s degree in business, economics, or a related field is required.
• 12 to 15 years of senior-level professional experience, with at least 8 years in banking, auditing, relationship management, or technical advisory services related to private sector development.
• Proven experience in investment transactions, including sourcing, negotiating, structuring, and closing quality investments.
• Strong understanding of the political, economic, and regulatory landscape of India, including local markets and sector dynamics.
• Experience in government relations and regulatory engagement within the financial or development sectors.
• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills, with the ability to work in multicultural teams and mentor others.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; proficiency in local languages is an asset.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to meet tight deadlines.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in business, economics, or a related field is mandatory for this position. This educational background is essential to understand the complexities of the financial and development sectors, as well as to engage effectively with stakeholders at various levels.

Experience:
Candidates should possess 12 to 15 years of senior-level professional experience, with a minimum of 8 years in relevant fields such as banking, auditing, or relationship management. Experience in investment transactions and a proven track record in developing client relationships are crucial for this role. Familiarity with the private sector development landscape and business environment in India is also required.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization. Proficiency in local languages is considered an asset and may enhance the ability to engage with local stakeholders effectively.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a term duration of 3 years. The recruitment is international, indicating that candidates from various countries may apply. The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, 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.