Country Manager, IBRD

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a unique global partnership of five institutions established with the mission to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. Founded in 1944, the organization has grown to include 189 member countries and operates more than 120 offices worldwide. The World Bank is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, focusing on solving the world’s greatest development challenges through partnerships with public and private sector entities. The organization invests in groundbreaking projects and utilizes data, research, and technology to bring about tangible and transformative change globally. For more information, visit www.worldbank.org.

Job Overview:
The Country Manager for IBRD in Colombia will play a pivotal role in overseeing the Bank’s operations within the country, ensuring alignment with the World Bank Group's broader strategies and objectives. This position requires a strategic leader who can navigate complex challenges in the region, including low productivity, job quality, and vulnerability to economic shocks. The Country Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing the Country Partnership Framework (CPF) and other strategic documents, ensuring high-quality work programs that meet client demands and are tailored to the unique context of Colombia. The role involves significant interaction with various stakeholders, including government officials, private sector partners, and development agencies, to foster collaboration and drive impactful development initiatives. The Country Manager will also oversee the management of the country office team, ensuring effective resource allocation and talent development while maintaining compliance with Bank policies and procedures.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Country Manager is accountable for a wide range of responsibilities, including: leading the Bank’s program oversight and dialogue in coordination with IFC and MIGA; developing, updating, and implementing the CPF and other strategic documents; ensuring accountability for results outlined in the CPF; supporting the development of high-quality work programs and sector strategies; providing oversight on portfolio management and quality issues; managing the country office team in partnership with HR; ensuring effective formulation of the Country Office budget; representing the Bank and engaging with key partners; fostering relationships with government and civil society; cultivating an environment of knowledge sharing and innovation; and disseminating best practices and lessons learned. The Country Manager must also ensure compliance with the Access to Information policy and support task teams in applying global knowledge to local contexts.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a PhD or Master’s degree in a relevant field such as business, finance, economics, or a sector-specific area of expertise. A minimum of 12 years of professional experience in progressively complex roles within an international context is required, demonstrating a strong track record in country program management, business consulting, investment banking, or operational experience relevant to the country. Candidates should have portfolio management experience and proven competency in implementation support, along with a broad understanding of the Bank’s financial and advisory products and services. Strong political, diplomatic, and partnership skills are essential, as is the ability to develop and sustain effective senior-level relationships with government and private sector clients.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a PhD or Master’s degree in relevant fields such as business, finance, economics, or other areas of expertise that align with the responsibilities of the Country Manager role. This advanced education is crucial for understanding the complexities of international development and the specific challenges faced by the region.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 12 years of professional experience, with a focus on roles that have increased in complexity and responsibility over time. Candidates should have substantial experience in international contexts, particularly in managing country programs, providing operational support, and engaging with various stakeholders in the development sector. Experience in leading teams and managing diverse projects is also essential.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and Spanish is mandatory for this position, as effective communication with a wide range of stakeholders is critical. Strong written and verbal communication skills in both languages are necessary to present ideas clearly and persuasively. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is an international recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 4 years. The role is full-time and involves significant responsibilities in managing the IBRD program in Colombia. The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees regardless of gender, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.