Investment Officer, Public Private Partnership Transaction Advisory

Job Posting Organization:
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a member of the World Bank Group and is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. Established to promote sustainable economic development, IFC works in over 100 countries, leveraging its capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries. The organization is dedicated to ending poverty and promoting shared prosperity, with a mission to mobilize private sector solutions and investments. In fiscal year 2025, IFC committed a record $71.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, demonstrating its significant role in the global development landscape. IFC operates through various departments, including the Transaction Advisory Services Department, which provides advisory services to governments for sustainable infrastructure projects. With over 120 staff globally and a strong presence in Africa, IFC aims to mobilize private capital and enhance the development impact of its projects.

Job Overview:
The Investment Officer (IO) position within the Public Private Partnership (PPP) Transaction Advisory team at IFC is a critical role aimed at enhancing the organization's presence in the PPP business across the Western Africa sub-region. The IO will be responsible for developing and executing advisory mandates related to various types of PPP transactions, including public-private partnerships, restructuring, and privatization of state-owned enterprises. This role requires significant market and industry experience, as the IO will engage in business development activities, build client relationships, and collaborate with government entities to facilitate the successful execution of infrastructure projects. The position is based in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, and involves close collaboration with the Western Africa Hub Leader and other teams within the World Bank Group to ensure alignment with country strategies and effective project delivery. The IO will also be expected to contribute to the development of innovative solutions that address client challenges while ensuring the sustainability and bankability of projects.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Investment Officer include: actively contributing to business targets for the Hub by increasing the pipeline of projects, closing deals, and meeting yearly mobilization targets; developing client relationships and project leads in the Western Africa region; leading negotiations with clients and supervising the preparation of commercial proposals; conducting project scoping to assess feasibility; preparing and reviewing documentation for internal approvals and consultant procurement; managing project budgets; fostering relationships with World Bank Group counterparts; understanding political, legal, and regulatory impediments to private sector participation; managing day-to-day project preparation; demonstrating mastery of financial modeling and project finance analyses; developing transaction structure options for PPP projects; assisting in the organization and management of tendering processes; participating in meetings with government clients and investors; coordinating closely with other parts of IFC; developing and managing junior team members; contributing to the development of regional strategies; and supporting knowledge management initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Investment Officer position include a Master's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, or a similar relevant field. Candidates should have at least 8 years of relevant experience in PPP transaction advisory, investment banking, project finance, or corporate finance, preferably with a leading institution. Experience in the Western Africa region is desirable, along with a proven track record in originating, advising, structuring, and executing infrastructure transactions. Strong business development and client relationship skills are essential, as well as a solid understanding of legal documentation related to PPP projects. Candidates should possess strong analytical and financial modeling skills, the ability to manage teams, and a commitment to delivering innovative and sustainable solutions.

Educational Background:
Candidates for the Investment Officer position should hold a Master's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, or a related field. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of financial transactions and the economic principles that underpin successful public-private partnerships.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in PPP transaction advisory, investment banking, project finance, or corporate finance. Candidates with 4-5 years of experience in sell/buy-side M&A advisory will have an advantage. Experience in the infrastructure sector, particularly in Africa, is highly desirable, as is a proven ability to manage multiple transactions and teams effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with mastery of the French language (both oral and written) also required. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, but the primary focus will be on English and French due to the regional context of the position.

Additional Notes:
The Investment Officer position is a full-time role with a contract duration of 3 years. The recruitment is international, and candidates from various countries are encouraged to apply. 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 diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. The work environment is dynamic and culturally diverse, requiring the ability to operate effectively in geographically dispersed teams.