Senior Investment Officer (Business Development-MAS)

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 promote sustainable development, the IFC focuses on the private sector in emerging markets. With a presence in over 100 countries and a commitment of $71.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in fiscal year 2025, the IFC aims to create markets and opportunities that help alleviate poverty and foster economic growth. The organization operates with a mission to end poverty and promote shared prosperity, leveraging its capital, expertise, and influence to address the most pressing global challenges. The Tokyo office plays a crucial role in enhancing co-investments and partnerships with Japanese clients, focusing on business development initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Senior Investment Officer position at the IFC Tokyo Office is a strategic role aimed at spearheading business development and partnership initiatives with Japanese clients. This position is critical in shaping and executing investment strategies that yield tangible development impacts in emerging markets, particularly in the Manufacturing, Agriculture, and Services sectors with a focus on security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security in Africa. The Senior Investment Officer will lead a team and collaborate closely with various IFC staff across the Asia Pacific, South Asia, and global teams. The role requires a proactive approach to client engagement, ensuring that the needs of Japanese entities are met while aligning with the broader goals of the IFC. The officer will be responsible for developing client engagement strategies, managing relationships with key stakeholders, and providing strategic advice to clients, thereby contributing to the overall mission of the World Bank Group.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Investment Officer will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Developing a client engagement strategy specifically for the Manufacturing, Agriculture, and Services sectors, with an emphasis on food security in Africa.
• Supporting the Director of the Tokyo Office in managing relationships with key clients and stakeholders.
• Coordinating closely with the industry department to provide strategic advice tailored to client needs.
• Implementing the client engagement strategy through direct collaboration with clients, ensuring follow-ups and responsiveness to their needs.
• Monitoring market developments and analyzing client activity to inform strategic advice and proactive engagement plans.
• Maintaining up-to-date knowledge of industry trends and competitive landscapes to better serve clients.
• Building and nurturing relationships with industry specialists to leverage technological advancements in client engagements.
• Participating in client meetings, preparing presentations, and documenting follow-ups.
• Developing a thorough understanding of IFC’s products and services to effectively communicate their value to clients. 1
• Identifying new business opportunities and trends in client behavior to drive growth and impact.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an MBA or a Master’s degree in business, finance, or economics. Additionally, they should have a minimum of 12 to 15 years of experience in business development, project finance, and investment banking, with a strong network and credibility within the Japanese private sector. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in client coverage and business development, particularly with Japanese companies. Strong analytical skills, business judgment, and the ability to develop innovative solutions are essential. Experience in managing diverse project teams and dealing with multiple stakeholders is also required, along with proficiency in English and Japanese.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include an MBA or a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as business, finance, or economics. This advanced education is crucial for understanding the complexities of investment strategies and business development in the context of international finance and development.

Experience:
The position requires extensive experience, specifically 12 to 15 years in relevant fields such as business development, project finance, and investment banking. Candidates should have a strong background in engaging with the Japanese private sector and a demonstrated ability to manage diverse project teams across multiple transactions. Experience in client coverage and a deep understanding of the investment landscape are critical for success in this role.

Languages:
Proficiency in both English and Japanese is mandatory for this position, as effective communication with clients and stakeholders in both languages is essential. Additional language skills may be considered a plus, but the primary requirement is fluency in these two languages to facilitate smooth interactions and negotiations.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a contract duration of 3 years. It involves international recruitment, indicating that candidates from various countries may apply. The role requires a willingness to travel extensively, reflecting the global nature of the work and the need to engage with clients and stakeholders across different regions. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans, medical and life insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees.