Principal Banker

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

• The EBRD's mission is to foster the transition towards open market-oriented economies and to promote private and entrepreneurial initiative in countries from Central Europe to Central Asia and the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean. The organization operates in over 30 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to supporting the development of sustainable economies. EBRD is known for its commitment to sustainability, inclusiveness, and innovation, and it plays a crucial role in providing financial and technical assistance to projects that align with its operational objectives.

Job Overview:
The Principal Banker is a pivotal role within the EBRD, responsible for overseeing all aspects of project development and implementation. This includes project origination, structuring, execution, implementation, and monitoring of various investment instruments offered by the Bank. The Principal Banker will serve as a senior member of a project team or as an operation leader, particularly on less complex transactions compared to an Associate Director or Senior Banker. This position requires effective leadership of project teams, supervision of junior banking staff, and active participation in business development, client management, and policy dialogue. The Principal Banker will engage in the entire project life cycle, from origination to completion, ensuring that all tasks are executed efficiently and in alignment with the Bank's objectives. The role demands a high level of independence and the ability to build and maintain relationships with stakeholders, contributing to the successful execution of projects and the overall mission of the EBRD.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Structuring and Execution: As a senior project team member, contribute to complex transactions by supporting the operation leader in managing the project team. As an operation leader, lead the structuring, negotiation, and execution of transactions, ensuring quality and compliance with the Bank's standards. Manage project teams, oversee due diligence processes, and ensure timely completion of transactions.
• Portfolio Monitoring, Value Creation, and Reporting: Take responsibility for monitoring projects, providing guidance to junior team members, and managing client relationships. Ensure compliance with donor reporting requirements and address any critical portfolio issues promptly.
• Policy Dialogue: Collaborate with relevant units within the Bank to contribute to policy dialogue initiatives, supporting efforts to procure grants and technical cooperation funds.
• Business Development: Assist in marketing and business development efforts to build market contacts and develop a broad deal flow. Screen project proposals to identify sound investments that align with the Bank's mandate.
• Staff Management: Recruit, train, and mentor junior bankers, ensuring quality project work and appropriate workload distribution. Foster productive relationships within the organization and uphold the Bank's behavioral competencies and corporate behaviors.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree and demonstrate strong quantitative and numerical skills, with the ability to interpret financial information and design financial models. Proficiency in credit analysis, understanding of local and international accounting principles, and computer literacy, particularly in Microsoft Office and financial modeling software, are essential. Candidates should also exhibit excellent stakeholder management, coaching, mentoring, and leadership skills, along with strong relationship management and negotiation abilities. The ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines is crucial, as are excellent written and oral communication skills in English. A good command of one of the languages of EBRD’s countries of operations is considered an advantage.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree is required for this position. Candidates with advanced degrees or specialized qualifications in finance, economics, or related fields may be preferred, as they can provide a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in project financing and development.

Experience:
Significant experience in real estate financing or development is required, ideally from an investment or commercial bank, international financial institution, private equity firm, asset management firm, or auditing/financial consulting firm that operates to international standards. Practical experience in leading complex transactions in the real estate and hospitality sectors throughout the full project life cycle is essential, along with exposure to commercial real estate and hospitality sectors in EBRD countries of operation.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as the role involves collaboration with international teams. Proficiency in one of the languages of EBRD’s countries of operations is advantageous and may enhance communication with local stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a regular contract with a length that is not specified. The role is full-time and involves significant responsibilities, including staff management and project oversight. The EBRD encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of their background, ensuring a diverse and inclusive work environment. The organization offers competitive benefits and prioritizes employee wellbeing, sustainability, and digital transformation in its operations.