Principal Investment Officer

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 foster economic development by promoting private sector investment, IFC operates in over 100 countries, leveraging its capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing nations. In fiscal year 2025, IFC committed a record $71.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, emphasizing its role in mobilizing private capital to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development. The organization is part of a larger partnership of five global institutions dedicated to ending poverty and increasing shared prosperity, with a network of more than 120 offices worldwide. IFC's Financial Institution Group (FIG) is a key department responsible for a significant portion of IFC's business volume and profitability, focusing on financial inclusion, servicing the real economy, and mobilizing third-party resources.

Job Overview:
The Principal Investment Officer position at IFC is a pivotal role aimed at enhancing the organization's FIG operations in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. The officer will be responsible for driving business development and supporting portfolio supervision in these countries. This role requires continuous engagement with Country Managers, the Regional FIG Leadership Team, and other relevant departments within IFC, including Special Operations, Treasury, Legal, and Equity Mobilization. The Principal Investment Officer will report directly to the Regional Industry Manager and will play a crucial role in developing strategies for high-impact projects, maintaining client relationships, and ensuring the successful execution of complex portfolio actions. The position demands a proactive approach to business development, with a focus on achieving impact and profitability targets while navigating the complexities of the financial landscape in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Principal Investment Officer will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including: 1) Contributing to the development of the strategy for IFC’s FIG business in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal, including setting key business targets for the regional investment program. 2) Building and maintaining high-level relationships with clients, understanding sector trends, and leading multidisciplinary teams to convert leads into successful deals. 3) Supporting business development efforts in collaboration with regional and global FIG teams, managing client relationships, and ensuring high levels of client satisfaction. 4) Overseeing the timeliness and quality of complex portfolio actions, including restructuring and equity sales. 5) Coordinating with equity investment leads to manage the FIG equity portfolio effectively. 6) Monitoring compliance with IFC’s financial, environmental, and legal requirements. 7) Engaging with the Independent Evaluation Group on assessments of the investment portfolio. 8) Contributing to knowledge management by sharing lessons learned from the portfolio. 9) Supervising FIG teams in the region to ensure high performance and motivation. 10) Undertaking additional assignments as directed by the Regional Industry Manager.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Principal Investment Officer position must possess a Master's degree in a relevant field such as business, finance, or economics, along with at least 12 years of experience in related areas. This experience should include a proven track record in business consulting, investment banking, or operational roles within the sector. The ideal candidate will demonstrate excellent negotiation and structuring skills, the ability to influence stakeholders, and a strong network within the sector. They should also possess outstanding written and verbal communication skills, enabling them to articulate complex issues clearly and effectively to clients and stakeholders. Additionally, the candidate should have experience in managing diverse teams and mentoring junior staff, as well as a comprehensive understanding of the financial landscape and market dynamics in emerging markets.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in a relevant field such as business, finance, or economics. Candidates should have a strong academic foundation that supports their understanding of investment principles, analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">financial analysis, and economic development. Specialized knowledge in sectors relevant to IFC's operations will be advantageous, as will any additional certifications or training related to investment management or financial services.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 12 years of relevant experience, which should encompass a mix of business consulting, investment banking, or operational experience in sectors pertinent to IFC's mission. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to manage complex financial transactions, engage with high-level stakeholders, and navigate the intricacies of investment in emerging markets. Experience in developing and executing strategies for business growth and portfolio management is essential, as is a proven ability to lead teams and projects effectively.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English, which is essential for communication within the organization and with external stakeholders. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the region, such as Bengali, Sinhala, or Nepali, would be considered a valuable asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with local clients and partners effectively.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an international recruitment role with a term duration of 3 years. It is a full-time position based in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and involves significant interaction with various stakeholders across the region. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical and life insurance, paid leave, and 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.