Principal Banker

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

• Its mission is to promote the transition to open market-oriented economies and to foster private and entrepreneurial initiative in countries from Central Europe to Central Asia and the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean. The EBRD operates in over 30 countries, employing thousands of professionals who work across various sectors, including banking, infrastructure, and energy. The organization is committed to sustainable development and aims to support projects that enhance economic growth and improve living standards in the regions it serves.

Job Overview:
The Principal Banker position is a key role within the Sustainable Infrastructure Middle East & Africa team at the EBRD. This role is primarily focused on the energy and infrastructure sectors, particularly in the Bank's new Countries of Operation in sub-Saharan Africa. The Principal Banker is responsible for all aspects of project development and implementation, which includes project origination, structuring, execution, and monitoring. This position requires a high level of competency in managing project teams, leading transactions, and ensuring that projects align with the Bank's objectives. The Principal Banker will also engage in business development, client management, and policy dialogue, making it essential for candidates to possess strong leadership and communication skills. The role is designed to foster the development of transaction expertise and expand responsibilities within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Structuring and Execution: As a senior project team member, the Principal Banker will work closely with operation leaders on complex transactions, contributing to project structuring and execution. They will lead negotiations, manage project teams, and ensure that all transactions meet the Bank's standards and are completed on time.
• Portfolio Monitoring, Value Creation and Reporting: The Principal Banker will oversee the monitoring of projects, ensuring high-quality reporting and effective client relationship management. They will also manage junior bankers involved in portfolio monitoring and ensure compliance with donor reporting requirements.
• Policy Dialogue: The Principal Banker will contribute to policy dialogue initiatives, supporting efforts to procure grants and technical cooperation funds.
• Business Development: The role involves assisting with marketing and business development efforts to build market contacts and develop a broad deal flow.
• Staff Management: The Principal Banker will assist in recruiting, training, and mentoring junior bankers, ensuring quality project work and appropriate workload distribution. They will also be responsible for performance management and coaching within the team.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree, with a Master’s degree preferred or equivalent experience in relevant fields. Professional qualifications such as ACA, CFA, ACCA, or CIMA are desirable. Strong quantitative skills are essential, along with the ability to interpret financial information and design financial models. Candidates should have excellent stakeholder management, coaching, mentoring, and leadership skills, as well as the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Proficiency in English is mandatory, and knowledge of the local language is an advantage.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, business administration, or a related field. A Master’s degree is preferred, and candidates with professional qualifications such as ACA, CFA, ACCA, or CIMA will have an advantage. Candidates should have a strong foundation in analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">financial analysis and project finance, particularly in the energy and infrastructure sectors.

Experience:
Significant relevant experience in the financial industry is required, ideally from an investment or commercial bank, private equity firm, asset management firm, or auditing/financial consulting firm. Candidates should have practical experience in leading complex transactions through the full project life cycle, with a focus on the energy and infrastructure sectors, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Experience in project finance and climate finance is also highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as the role involves collaboration with international teams. A good command of the local language is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate communication with local stakeholders and clients.

Additional Notes:
This position is a regular contract with a contract length that is not specified. The role is full-time and involves significant interaction with international teams. The EBRD promotes a hybrid workplace that offers flexibility to employees, and it is committed to diversity and inclusion in its hiring practices. The organization provides a comprehensive suite of competitive benefits and prioritizes employee wellbeing.