Principal

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

• The EBRD's mission is to foster the transition towards open market-oriented economies and to promote private and entrepreneurial initiative in countries from Central Europe to Central Asia. The organization operates in over 30 countries and employs a diverse workforce that reflects a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. The EBRD is committed to sustainability, equality, and digital transformation, and it aims to make a positive impact on the lives of people in the regions it invests in.

Job Overview:
The Principal will play a crucial role in managing EU funds in the Western Balkans, specifically overseeing the activities of the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF). This position involves close collaboration with various stakeholders, including the European Commission, bilateral donors, and international financial institutions (IFIs). The Principal will report to the Principal II of EU Partnerships and will be responsible for ensuring that new conditionalities associated with the EU Reform and Growth Facility are effectively integrated into internal procedures. The role requires managing a portfolio of grants across multiple beneficiary countries, ensuring compliance with governance arrangements, and advising operational teams on funding proposals throughout the application process. Additionally, the Principal will lead coordination efforts with internal and external stakeholders to ensure timely implementation of grants and manage annual reporting exercises for public sector grants. This position also involves developing fundraising strategies targeting EU funds and managing existing EU IPA funds, providing oversight and resolving donor-related issues as necessary.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Principal's duties include working with the Principal II to ensure that new conditionalities related to the EU Reform and Growth Facility are reflected in internal procedures and monitored throughout implementation. The Principal will manage a portfolio of grants in up to three beneficiary countries, ensuring compliance with governance arrangements and advising operational teams on funding proposals from submission to approval. The role involves leading coordination with stakeholders to ensure timely implementation of grants, managing annual reporting for public sector grants, and participating in WBIF governance meetings. The Principal will also lead bi-annual portfolio reviews and milestone meetings for public sector infrastructure projects, ensuring effective communication and collaboration with various teams. Additionally, the Principal will develop fundraising strategies for EU funds, manage existing EU IPA funds, and provide oversight and support for negotiations of relevant agreements. Effective relationship management with donors and stakeholders is essential, as is advising operational teams on donor fund availability and internal policies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in economics, finance, international development, or a related field. A strong understanding of the global aid architecture and the functioning of EU institutions is essential. Relevant experience in an international financial institution, international organization, or private sector is required. Candidates should have a wide understanding of grant and financial instruments, excellent interpersonal skills, and the ability to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders. Strong numerical, analytical, negotiating, and problem-solving skills are necessary, along with the ability to work independently and as part of a team under pressure. Proficiency in English, both written and spoken, is mandatory, and proficiency in additional languages is advantageous. Candidates should also be computer literate and familiar with Microsoft Office applications.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in economics, finance, international development, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background provides the necessary knowledge and skills to understand complex financial instruments and the workings of international financial institutions, which are crucial for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have relevant experience working in an international financial institution, other international organizations, or in the private sector. This experience should include familiarity with grant and financial instruments, as well as a strong understanding of the global aid architecture and EU institutions. The ability to manage relationships with a variety of stakeholders and to navigate complex funding environments is essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages is considered an advantage, as it can enhance communication with diverse stakeholders in the Western Balkans and beyond.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term contract lasting for two years. The role is based in London, United Kingdom, and involves working closely with various departments and stakeholders. The EBRD promotes a hybrid workplace that offers flexibility and prioritizes employee wellbeing, providing a comprehensive suite of competitive benefits. The organization values diversity and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of their background.