Principal I for Impact Methodology Sub Saharan Africa (SSA)

Job Posting Organization:
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is an international financial institution established in 1991 to support the development of market economies and promote private and entrepreneurial initiatives in countries transitioning to market economies. The EBRD operates in over 30 countries, primarily in Central and Eastern Europe, and has a mission to foster the transition to open market-oriented economies and promote sustainable development. The organization employs approximately 2,000 staff members and is headquartered in London, UK. The EBRD is committed to investing in projects that enhance the economic development of its countries of operations, with a focus on sustainability and inclusivity.

Job Overview:
The Principal I for Impact Methodology Sub Saharan Africa (SSA) is a pivotal role within the Impact department of the EBRD, tasked with implementing the Bank's mandate to promote transition in its countries of operations, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. This position involves close collaboration with various departments, including Banking, Credit, and sector specialists, to implement the Bank's transition impact architecture. The role requires the post holder to assist in developing and managing an integrated system for ex-ante assessment, monitoring, self-evaluation, and knowledge management, aimed at maximizing the impact of the Bank's activities. The Principal I will contribute significantly to the development of robust impact management systems, project and sector assessments, and the analysis and evaluation of impact for both internal and external reporting. Additionally, the role includes the creation of knowledge management products and services to facilitate effective knowledge sharing and learning across the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Principal I will coordinate with colleagues in the Impact department to design and run an integrated system for ex-ante assessment, monitoring, self-evaluation, and knowledge management to enhance the impact of the Bank's activities. The responsibilities include focusing on specific workstreams related to the enhancement and maintenance of the Bank's transition impact methodology, ensuring effective application of this methodology in investment project appraisals, and providing expert support to sector impact teams on transition impact ratings and monitoring indicators. The role also involves developing guidance notes and technical materials on transition impact, supporting training and knowledge-sharing activities, and representing the Bank at relevant forums to promote best practices. The Principal I may also be responsible for managing staff, including recruitment and performance management, while championing the Bank's behavioral competencies and corporate behaviors.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a postgraduate degree in economics or a related field from a leading university, with a PhD being an advantage. Proven experience in project design and appraisal, impact management, and impact assessment/evaluations is essential, along with a strong understanding of the EBRD's mandate and strategic objectives. Candidates should demonstrate excellent analytical and quantitative skills, strong interpersonal abilities, and the capacity to operate effectively in a multicultural environment. Proficiency in written and oral communication in English is required, with familiarity with the EBRD's SSA region being advantageous. Knowledge of one or more languages from the region is also a plus.

Educational Background:
The position requires a postgraduate degree in economics or a closely related discipline from a recognized institution. A PhD in economics or a related field is considered an advantage, as it demonstrates a higher level of expertise and research capability in the subject matter relevant to the role.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have substantial experience in rigorous project design and appraisal, particularly in impact management. This includes leading and preparing impact assessments and evaluations, with a proven track record of effectively communicating complex analyses to senior decision-makers who may not be subject matter experts. Familiarity with the EBRD's operations and transition impact methodology is crucial, as is experience working in or with the SSA region.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as the role requires professional-level communication skills for official documents and representation. Knowledge of additional languages spoken in the SSA region is considered advantageous and may enhance the candidate's ability to engage with local stakeholders and contribute to the Bank's objectives in those areas.

Additional Notes:
This position is a regular contract role with no specified contract length, indicating a long-term commitment to the successful candidate. The role is based in Nairobi, Kenya, and involves collaboration with international teams, necessitating the submission of resumes in English. The EBRD promotes a diverse and inclusive workplace, encouraging applications from qualified candidates regardless of their background. The organization offers a hybrid work environment that emphasizes flexibility and employee well-being, along with a comprehensive suite of competitive benefits.