Operations Officer -Local Champions Initiative (LCI)

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), which is a member of the World Bank Group (WBG). The WBG is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, dedicated to ending poverty, increasing shared prosperity, and promoting sustainable development. Established with 189 member countries and over 120 offices worldwide, the WBG collaborates with public and private sector partners to invest in groundbreaking projects, utilizing data, research, and technology to address urgent global challenges. The IFC specifically focuses on the private sector in emerging markets, working in more than 100 countries to create markets and opportunities. In fiscal year 2025, IFC committed a record $71.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, aiming to leverage private sector solutions and mobilize private capital to eradicate poverty and promote a livable planet. The organization is particularly focused on fragile and conflict-affected situations, pledging that 40% of its annual commitments will be in International Development Association-eligible and Fragile and Conflict-affected Situations countries by 2030.

Job Overview:
The Operations Officer will play a crucial role in leading and scaling the Local Champions Initiative (LCI) project in Burundi and designing and delivering the project in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This position will focus on identifying and supporting the growth of high-potential small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) linked to the mining industry and other sectors in the Katanga and Kolwezi areas, as well as engaging with the World Bank Group's Inga and Pact programs. The role will also involve coverage of Sao Tome and Zimbabwe, leading any FCS activities in these countries. The Operations Officer will report to the FCS thematic lead for Domestic Private Sector engagement and will work closely with the IFC Country Officer or JCR. The successful candidate will be responsible for implementing the LCI project, overseeing technical assistance, managing client relationships, and supporting access to finance solutions. The position requires a strategic approach to integrate conflict sensitivity and forced displacement considerations into project activities, ensuring alignment with the WBG's broader goals and commitments.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Operations Officer will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including:

• Leading the implementation of the Burundi Local Champions Initiative, overseeing technical assistance, client relationship management, and access to finance solutions.
• Identifying opportunities to scale the Burundi LCI work in conjunction with the World Bank's SME and agribusiness-focused activities.
• Conducting mapping, screening, and champion selection in the DRC, focusing on potential SMEs for direct client engagement or value chain development.
• Analyzing industry value chains and procurement patterns to identify linkage opportunities.
• Developing selection criteria and processes for SME participation in the program.
• Designing and delivering the implementation plan for the LCI project in collaboration with industry teams and the Country Office.
• Preparing project documentation for internal IFC approval processes and coordinating consultations with key stakeholders.
• Tracking program outputs and outcomes, including SME participation rates and capacity improvements.
• Maintaining accurate project documentation and databases, leading project supervision processes, and contributing to donor reporting. 1
• Capturing lessons learned and best practices for replication in other IFC projects, and mapping out strategic efforts in FCS to define collaboration opportunities.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Master's degree in a related field such as business, law, finance, public administration, or economics, along with at least 10 years of relevant experience. Candidates should have a proven track record in business consulting, investment banking, or operational experience in the sector. Strong experience in managing IFC and IBRD/IDA solutions/advisory projects, preferably in fragile contexts, is essential. Knowledge of working in francophone African countries and experience in FCS countries are highly desirable. Candidates should possess strong analytical and presentation skills, excellent written and oral communication skills in English and French, and the ability to work effectively in a multicultural, fast-paced team environment.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a Master's degree in a relevant field, which may include business, law, finance, public administration, or economics. The educational background should align with the specific sector or industry specialty relevant to the position, ensuring that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical understanding to effectively contribute to the Local Champions Initiative.

Experience:
The position requires at least 10 years of relevant experience, with a strong emphasis on managing the delivery of IFC and IBRD/IDA solutions and advisory projects. Experience in fragile contexts is particularly valuable, as is a proven track record in business consulting or investment banking. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to identify opportunities in changing circumstances and energize teams to continuously improve.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and French is mandatory for this position, as these are the required languages for effective communication within the organization and with stakeholders. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered a plus, but English and French are essential for fulfilling the role's responsibilities.

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, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates regardless of gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.