(Senior) Country Officer - Germany, Switzerland, Nordics

Job Posting Organization:
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a member of the World Bank Group and stands as the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. Established to foster economic development, IFC operates in over 100 countries, leveraging its capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities. The organization's mission is to harness the power of the private sector to eradicate extreme poverty and promote shared prosperity on a livable planet. For more information, visit www.ifc.org.

Job Overview:
The IFC Western Europe (WE) department is on the lookout for a (Senior) Country Officer who will be responsible for managing relationships and driving business development across Germany, Switzerland, and the Nordics. This role requires an entrepreneurial mindset and experience in emerging markets. The officer will serve as the IFC representative in these countries, acting as a key contact point for clients and various public and private sector stakeholders. The position involves expanding market knowledge and building a solid client base across diverse sectors. The officer will also contribute to the overall business development efforts of the WE leadership team and help position IFC effectively within the region. The role is based in Berlin and reports to the Senior Manager for Western Europe, who is located in Paris, ensuring strong collaboration with industry and specialist teams across IFC.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The (Senior) Country Officer will oversee all relationships with relevant country authorities and actively manage partnerships with key stakeholders, including Development Finance Institutions and shareholders. Responsibilities include organizing visits for senior management to these countries, arranging meetings with essential stakeholders and clients, and building relationships with regulators, businesses, NGOs, academia, private equity funds, and investors. The officer will also be responsible for health and safety issues, participating in the WBG Berlin Office crisis management team, and promoting social and team-building initiatives. Additionally, the officer will identify strategic partnerships and conduct business development activities across sectors to expand the IFC client and network base. Supporting industry sector teams to identify prospective clients and originate investment opportunities will also be crucial. The officer will represent IFC in target markets by organizing and participating in high-profile events, ensuring visibility and engagement with potential clients. Furthermore, the officer will develop market knowledge to ensure that IFC collaborates with the right sponsors and maintains integrity in client relationships, while closely liaising with the Global Head of Business Development and Client Coverage based in Paris.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in a relevant field and have a minimum of 8-12 years of relevant experience. The ability to interact directly and independently with government officials, senior management of potential clients, and business partners is essential. A strong understanding of the corporate markets and business culture in Germany, Switzerland, and the Nordics is required, along with an existing client network in these countries being a significant advantage. Demonstrated skills in business development and client relationship management are crucial, as is the ability to focus effectively on client needs. Candidates should have sound business judgment to identify potential private and public sector partners and knowledge of IFC's strategy, products, services, risk appetite, and financing requirements. Experience with blended finance and partner engagement is preferred, as is experience in country operations and partner engagement in priority areas, including Ukraine and conflict-affected situations. The ability to manage conflicting priorities, deliver high-quality work on schedule, and successfully interact in multicultural teams is necessary. Managerial skills to lead the Berlin Head of Office and deal with a wide range of administrative matters are also required, along with the ability to guide and mentor junior staff. Excellent written and oral communication skills are essential, as is proficiency in English and German. A genuine commitment to ethical standards and sustainable development is expected, along with a willingness to travel.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in a relevant field is required for this position, ensuring that candidates have a solid academic foundation to support their professional experience and responsibilities.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 8-12 years of relevant experience, which should include direct interaction with government officials and senior management of potential clients and business partners. Experience in business development and client relationship management is crucial, as well as familiarity with the corporate markets in Germany, Switzerland, and the Nordics.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and German is mandatory for this position. Additionally, knowledge of other European languages would be beneficial, enhancing communication with a broader range of stakeholders and clients.

Additional Notes:
The position is a full-time role with a term duration of 3 years. It involves international recruitment, indicating that candidates from various countries may apply. The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, paid leave, including parental leave, and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The organization prides itself on being an equal opportunity and inclusive employer, committed to a diverse workforce and does not discriminate based on gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.