Principal Banker

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

• Its mission is to promote the transition to market economies in countries from Central Europe to Central Asia. The EBRD operates in over 30 countries and employs approximately 2,000 staff members. The organization focuses on fostering sustainable development and enhancing the private sector's role in the economy. EBRD's values include inclusiveness, innovation, trust, and responsibility, which guide its operations and interactions with clients and stakeholders.

Job Overview:
The Principal Banker role is a senior position within the Financial Institutions Middle East and Africa (MEA) team, primarily focused on operations in Nigeria but also extending to the wider region. The role involves engaging with various clients, including banks and non-bank financial institutions, and managing a diverse range of financial products such as debt instruments, green bonds, and equity investments. The Principal Banker is expected to lead project teams, oversee project development and implementation, and engage in business development and client management. This position requires a strong understanding of project structuring, execution, and monitoring, as well as the ability to mentor junior staff and contribute to policy dialogue.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Structuring and Execution: As a senior project team member, the Principal Banker will work closely with Operation Leaders on complex transactions, contributing to project structuring and execution. They will lead negotiations, manage project teams, oversee due diligence processes, and ensure compliance with the Bank's standards.
• Portfolio Monitoring, Value Creation, and Reporting: The Principal Banker will monitor projects, manage client relationships, and supervise junior bankers in portfolio monitoring tasks. They will ensure high-quality reporting and timely communication of critical portfolio issues.
• Policy Dialogue: The role involves contributing to policy dialogue initiatives, supporting efforts to procure grants and technical cooperation funds.
• Business Development: The Principal Banker will assist in marketing efforts, build market contacts, and screen project proposals to identify viable investments.
• Staff Management: The Principal Banker will recruit, train, and mentor junior bankers, ensuring quality project work and effective workload distribution. This role is designed to develop transaction expertise and prepare the individual for higher responsibilities within the organization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree, with a Master's degree preferred. Professional qualifications such as ACA, CFA, ACCA, or CIMA are desirable. Strong quantitative skills, credit analysis capabilities, and proficiency in financial modeling are essential. Candidates should also demonstrate excellent stakeholder management, coaching, mentoring, and leadership skills, along with the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Proficiency in English is mandatory, and knowledge of the local language is advantageous.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree is required for this position, with a preference for candidates holding a Master's degree or equivalent experience in relevant fields. Professional qualifications such as ACA, CFA, ACCA, or CIMA are also desirable, indicating a strong foundation in finance and investment.

Experience:
Significant relevant experience in the financial industry is required, ideally from an investment or commercial bank, private equity firm, or asset management firm. Candidates should have practical experience in leading complex transactions throughout the project life cycle and possess a deep understanding of financial sector dynamics in Nigeria or similar developing economies.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as excellent written and oral communication skills are essential. A good command of the local language is considered an advantage, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with local stakeholders and clients.

Additional Notes:
This position is a regular contract role with no specified contract length. The EBRD promotes a hybrid workplace culture that emphasizes flexibility and inclusivity. The organization values diversity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their background. The EBRD also prioritizes employee wellbeing and offers a comprehensive suite of competitive benefits.