Finance Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that focuses on sustainable development and serves as the integrator for collective action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, employing over 17,000 personnel. The organization is dedicated to eradicating poverty and reducing inequalities through sustainable development, and it plays a crucial role in the UN Development System by providing expertise and support to countries in their development efforts.

Job Overview:
The Finance Specialist position at the UNDP Rome Centre for Climate Action and Energy Transition is pivotal in supporting the energy finance-related activities of the Centre. The role focuses on mobilizing international investments for clean energy projects, which are essential for achieving climate resilience and sustainable development. The Finance Specialist will work closely with the Energy Finance Lead and the Rome-based energy team, as well as with focal points in various Energy for Growth programme countries. This position requires a blend of financial expertise, strategic thinking, and the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders, including financial institutions and project developers. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing structured financing solutions, engaging with international investors, and contributing to the overall mission of promoting sustainable energy access in developing countries.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Specialist will undertake a variety of duties, including:

• Financial Structuring and Investment Mobilization: Develop structured financing solutions for clean energy projects, such as blended finance and guarantees. Engage with Development Finance Institutions (DFIs), international banks, and climate finance facilities to mobilize resources. Draft financing proposals and develop risk mitigation strategies to facilitate capital flow into impactful projects. Coordinate co-financing opportunities with donor-supported instruments and guarantee mechanisms.
• Partnerships with Financial Institutions: Build and maintain relationships with Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) and DFIs, such as the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the European Investment Bank (EIB). Evaluate new partnership opportunities and implement structured engagement strategies tailored to different financier types.
• Project Origination and Knowledge Sharing: Provide financial expertise to shape a bankable project pipeline from UNDP Country Offices. Evaluate financial models and cost structures for strategic alignment. Support the development of financial expertise within the energy finance team and contribute to knowledge-sharing initiatives.
• Market Intelligence and Advisory: Track investment trends and financial innovations in the African energy landscape. Advise leadership on strategic capital deployment and financing strategies.
• Perform other duties as necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in finance, business administration, economics, sustainable development, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree) in the aforementioned areas, combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience, will be considered in lieu of the advanced degree. The role requires a minimum of 7 years of international working experience in banking, economics, development finance, investment management, or investment coordination, with 9 years required for those with a Bachelor’s degree. Candidates should have experience conducting analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">financial analysis, contributing to investment decisions, and drafting reports and investment materials. Experience in a developing country context is also essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master's degree) in finance, business administration, economics, sustainable development, or a related field. A first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree) may be acceptable if accompanied by two additional years of relevant experience. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of financial structuring and investment mobilization in the context of sustainable development and climate finance.

Experience:
The Finance Specialist should have a minimum of 7 years of international working experience in relevant fields, such as banking, economics, development finance, investment management, or investment coordination. For candidates with a Bachelor’s degree, a total of 9 years of experience is required. This experience should include conducting financial analysis, contributing to investment decisions, and working in a developing country context. Desired skills include experience in structuring innovative financial instruments and working with multilateral or international financial institutions.

Languages:
High proficiency in spoken and written English is required for this position. This proficiency is essential for effective communication with stakeholders, drafting reports, and engaging in discussions related to investment and financing strategies. While English is mandatory, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly those relevant to the regions in which UNDP operates.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Rome, Italy, and is part of a full-time contract with UNDP. The organization values diversity and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. UNDP is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and does not tolerate harassment or discrimination. The organization reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions at the same grade level. UNDP does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.