Principal Operations Officer - Western Europe Regional Head of Operations

Job Posting Organization:
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a member of the World Bank Group, which is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries. Established to help countries solve their greatest development challenges, the WBG is a unique partnership of five global institutions dedicated to ending poverty, increasing shared prosperity, and promoting sustainable development. With 189 member countries and over 120 offices worldwide, the WBG collaborates with public and private sector partners to invest in groundbreaking projects and utilize data, research, and technology to develop solutions to urgent global challenges. The IFC specifically focuses on the private sector in emerging markets, working in more than 100 countries and leveraging private sector solutions 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 create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. For more information, visit www.ifc.org.

Job Overview:
The Principal Operations Officer will serve as the Regional Head of Operations for the Western Europe Region, based in Paris, France. This role is crucial in supporting Division Directors in facilitating cross-cutting work across the IFC. The RHO will coordinate the compilation, analysis, and reporting of operational data, making recommendations for Division Director review and decision-making. The position requires a strategic mindset to contribute to business development efforts across Western Europe and to enhance the positioning of IFC in the region. The RHO will work closely with industry teams to identify prospective clients and ensure alignment of donor-funded activities with regional strategies. The role also involves representing IFC at high-profile events and acting on behalf of the Division Director when authorized, ensuring effective communication and information flow within the regional management team.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Principal Operations Officer include: contributing to overall business development efforts across Western Europe; supporting industry teams in identifying prospective clients; ensuring cross-unit coordination on business development for Western Europe sponsors; promoting alignment of donor-funded activities with regional strategies; designing strategic partnerships with Western European donors; reviewing and supporting the implementation of fundraising strategies; ensuring coordination of donor engagement; representing IFC at high-profile events; facilitating information flow between the Division Director and regional management; convening and leading monthly regional meetings; coordinating IFC’s office footprint in the region; establishing interaction with the Regional Vice President Front Office; co-supervising Country Officers; overseeing regional support infrastructure; coordinating the budget process for all units in the region; and maintaining oversight of resource allocation optimization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an MBA, a master’s in finance, or a similar degree, along with a minimum of 12 years of relevant work experience. They should demonstrate outstanding business development skills, including success in developing client relationships. The ability to represent IFC externally and develop relationships with various stakeholders is essential. Experience working with multiple stakeholders on complex projects is required, along with strong interpersonal and negotiation skills. Candidates should have the ability to think strategically, identify issues, and propose creative solutions. A proven commitment to sustainable and inclusive development, strong team leadership skills, and excellent communication and presentation skills are also necessary. The capacity to manage conflicting priorities and deliver high-quality work on schedule is crucial.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an MBA, a master’s in finance, or a similar advanced degree. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of financial operations and business development in the context of international finance and development.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 12 years of relevant work experience, particularly in business development and client relationship management. Candidates should have a proven track record of success in similar roles, demonstrating their ability to navigate complex projects and stakeholder relationships effectively.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English. Proficiency in additional languages would be considered a plus, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders across the Western Europe region.

Additional Notes:
This position is an international recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 3 years. The role is full-time and based in Paris, France. 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 being an equal opportunity and inclusive employer, ensuring a diverse workforce and a workplace free from discrimination based on gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.