Associate Banker

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

• Its mission is to foster the transition towards open market-oriented economies and promote private and entrepreneurial initiatives in countries from Central Europe to Central Asia and the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean. The EBRD operates in over 30 countries and employs a diverse workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. The organization is committed to sustainable development and aims to support the growth of the private sector in its regions of operation.

Job Overview:
The Associate Banker plays a crucial role in the project cycle, contributing to various phases such as project origination, structuring, execution, and implementation. This position requires collaboration with international teams and involves comprehensive due diligence, ensuring compliance with EBRD policies, and effective monitoring of projects post-signing. The Associate Banker will work closely with the SME Finance & Development Group, focusing on enhancing access to finance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through innovative financing solutions. The role also includes elements of business development and client management, making it essential for the Associate Banker to develop transaction expertise and expand responsibilities over time.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Associate Banker will be responsible for several key tasks under the guidance of an operation leader or senior banker. These include:

• Structuring and Execution: Collaborating with project teams on transactions, ensuring high-quality project due diligence, preparing internal documentation such as project memoranda and financial models, and managing technical cooperation assistance.
• Portfolio Monitoring: Implementing and monitoring assigned projects, ensuring compliance with agreements, assessing risks, and preparing monitoring reports with recommendations for corrective actions.
• Business Development: Assisting in marketing and business development efforts to promote EBRD's initiatives and services. The Associate Banker will also mentor junior team members and may take on more significant responsibilities as they gain experience.

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. Proficiency in credit analysis and familiarity with local and international accounting principles are also required. Candidates should be computer literate, particularly in Microsoft Office and financial modeling software, and must demonstrate excellent communication skills in English, with knowledge of the local language being an advantage.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, business administration, or a related field. A Master’s degree is preferred, as it provides a deeper understanding of financial principles and practices. Additional professional qualifications such as ACA, CFA, ACCA, or CIMA are highly regarded and can enhance a candidate's profile.

Experience:
Candidates should have relevant experience in the financial industry, ideally from investment or commercial banks, private equity firms, asset management firms, or auditing/financial consulting firms that operate to international standards. Practical experience in participating in transactions throughout the project life cycle is essential, along with exposure to the Ivorian and/or West African market, which requires a solid understanding of local dynamics and trends in the banking and financial services sector.

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

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term contract lasting for 2 years. The EBRD promotes a hybrid workplace model that emphasizes flexibility and inclusivity. The organization values diversity and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of their background. The role is designed for full-time engagement, and candidates should be prepared for a dynamic work environment that prioritizes employee wellbeing and offers competitive benefits.