Regional Industry Manager, MAS, Agribusiness & Forestry, East & Southern 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. 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, aiming to mobilize private capital and create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. The IFC's mission is to create new investment opportunities by working 'upstream' to deepen and expand markets and design potential investment projects, which involves improving diagnostic, strategic, and public sector engagement capabilities to resolve obstacles to private sector growth and overcome the shortage of investable projects in priority markets.

Job Overview:
The Regional Industry Manager for Agribusiness & Forestry will play a pivotal role in supporting business development and portfolio management within the East & Southern Africa region. This position requires a strategic leader who will work closely with management and colleagues across the World Bank Group (WBG). The manager will coordinate continuously with Country Managers and the Africa MAS Leadership team, as well as other relevant departments within IFC, including Risk, Legal, Environment and Social, and Treasury. The role involves direct supervisory responsibilities over investment staff and analysts, ensuring that the team is high-performing, motivated, and committed to the success of IFC. The manager will lead business development efforts, manage a portfolio of Agribusiness and Forestry projects, and ensure high levels of client satisfaction while executing and managing a pipeline of investments that meet IFC’s impact and profitability targets. The position also emphasizes the importance of mentoring and developing staff, fostering a productive work environment, and enhancing IFC’s brand in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Regional Industry Manager include leading and managing the Agribusiness and Forestry team to ensure high performance and motivation. The manager will lead business development efforts in collaboration with regional and global teams, manage the Agribusiness and Forestry portfolio to ensure soundness and repeat business generation, and maintain selected client relationships to ensure satisfaction. The manager will execute and manage a pipeline of investments in the sector, assume the role of transaction manager, and provide credit and investment guidance to teams. Additionally, the manager will coordinate with Upstream and Advisory services, explore joint ventures with Financial Institution and Infrastructure Departments, and execute the strategy for Agribusiness and Forestry, focusing on security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Food Security and high-impact projects. The role also involves mentoring staff, developing IFC’s brand, and contributing to the MAS Africa Leadership Team.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an MBA or an equivalent professional qualification, along with a minimum of 12 years of relevant work experience, including at least 2 years in a managerial or leadership capacity. Familiarity with sectors related to agribusiness & forestry, chemicals & fertilizers, construction materials, health & education, machinery, manufacturing, tourism, retail, and property is essential. The candidate should have experience in sourcing and structuring complex investment transactions in the MAS sectors, with a proven track record in developing client relationships and processing quality investments. Awareness of environmental and social sustainability issues associated with MAS projects is also required. Strong client service orientation, business development aptitude, analytical skills, and the ability to deliver high-quality work within deadlines are crucial for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an MBA or an equivalent professional qualification. This advanced degree is essential to equip the candidate with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of agribusiness and forestry sectors, as well as to manage investment portfolios effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 12 years of relevant work experience, with at least 2 years in a managerial or leading capacity. This level of experience is necessary to ensure that the candidate has the requisite knowledge and skills to lead teams, manage portfolios, and engage in business development effectively within the agribusiness and forestry sectors.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English, which is essential for communication within the organization and with clients. Additionally, proficiency in French and Arabic is preferred, as these languages may enhance communication with stakeholders in the East & Southern Africa region.

Additional Notes:
This position is an international recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 4 years. The role is full-time and involves significant responsibilities, including leadership and management of teams. The IFC offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to being an equal opportunity and inclusive employer, ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly and without discrimination based on gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.