Regional Industry Manager, FIG – West Africa

Job Posting Organization:
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a member of the World Bank Group and is recognized as the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. Established to promote economic development by encouraging private sector investment, IFC operates in over 100 countries worldwide. The organization leverages its capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries. In fiscal year 2025, IFC committed a record $71 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, emphasizing its role in mobilizing private capital to foster a world free of poverty on a livable planet. IFC has recently adopted an ambitious strategy aimed at stimulating investment activity by creating markets, particularly in Low-Income Countries (LICs) and Fragile and Conflict Situations (FCS). This strategy necessitates a proactive approach to market creation and project development, rather than waiting for clients to propose projects for financing. The Financial Institutions Group (FIG) is a key department within IFC, responsible for a significant portion of its business volume and development impact, engaging in various sub-sectors such as Microfinance, SME, Gender, Climate, Insurance, and Capital Markets, among others. The overarching goal of FIG is to enhance financial inclusion and fuel economic growth in client countries, thereby amplifying IFC's developmental impact.

Job Overview:
The Regional Industry Manager for West Africa will play a pivotal role in overseeing the business performance, portfolio quality, and development impact of IFC’s FIG activities in the region. This position requires integrated leadership across new business development, transaction execution, and active portfolio management. The Regional Industry Manager will report directly to the Regional Industry Director, FIG Africa, and will be an integral member of the regional management team. The individual will be responsible for ensuring that IFC delivers high-impact, financially sound, and scalable solutions to its clients. This role involves close collaboration with management and colleagues from FIG, as well as continuous coordination with Country Managers and other relevant departments within IFC. The Regional Industry Manager will also supervise investment and portfolio staff, ensuring that the team is motivated and high-performing, committed to the success of IFC's mission in West Africa.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Regional Industry Manager include developing and implementing the regional FIG business strategy to catalyze high-impact investments in the financial sector. This involves leading, executing, and managing a pipeline of investments to meet IFC’s impact and profitability targets. The manager will be responsible for managing senior-level client relationships with existing and potential FIG clients, promoting repeat business and long-term strategic partnerships. Additionally, the role includes assuming the transaction manager position, providing credit and investment guidance, and ensuring quality control on teams’ outputs. The manager will originate, structure, negotiate, and approve complex debt and equity investments in financial institutions, while also supporting business development efforts in the region. This includes identifying strategic clients, leading relationship management, and ensuring new deals are ready for investment committee reviews. The manager will oversee active portfolio management, ensuring compliance with IFC's financial, environmental, and social requirements, and proactively managing portfolio risks. Furthermore, the role requires providing leadership in profitability and impact management for the West Africa FIG portfolio, contributing to knowledge management, and fostering relationships with World Bank Group counterparts.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the Regional Industry Manager position should possess a Master's degree in finance, economics, business administration, or a relevant field, with an MBA or equivalent preferred. Accreditation as a CFA or CPA is considered a plus. A minimum of 12 years of relevant experience in the financial sector is required, including substantial leadership experience in both origination and portfolio management. The candidate should demonstrate proven leadership and people management experience in a matrixed, multicultural organization, with the ability to inspire trust and resolve differences across organizational boundaries. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are essential, along with a proven track record in sourcing, structuring, negotiating, and managing complex financial sector investments. The candidate should also have a strong sense of service to clients and a demonstrated aptitude for business development and portfolio management.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a Master's degree in finance, economics, business administration, or a related field. An MBA or equivalent is preferred, and additional qualifications such as CFA or CPA accreditation are advantageous. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of financial markets and investment strategies, which are essential for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 12 years of relevant experience in the financial sector, with a strong emphasis on leadership roles in both origination and portfolio management. Candidates should have a proven track record of success in managing complex financial sector investments and should be adept at navigating the challenges of a multicultural and matrixed organizational structure.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French is mandatory for this position, as these are the primary languages of communication within the organization and with clients in the region. Proficiency in Portuguese is considered desirable, as it may enhance communication with stakeholders in certain areas of West Africa.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an international recruitment role with a term duration of 4 years. The role requires extensive regional and international travel, reflecting the need for the Regional Industry Manager to engage with clients and stakeholders across various locations. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, 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, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.