Operations Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a member of the World Bank Group, which is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries. Established to focus on the private sector in emerging markets, IFC operates in over 100 countries and is dedicated to creating markets and opportunities that help alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development. The organization has a significant global presence with 189 member countries and more than 120 offices worldwide. In fiscal year 2025, IFC committed a record $71.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging private sector solutions to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. The IFC 3.0 strategy aims to stimulate investment activity across emerging markets, particularly in Low Income Countries (LICs) and Fragile and Conflict-affected States (FCS).

Job Overview:
The Operations Officer position at IFC is a critical role that involves working closely with the World Bank Group (WBG) country, industry, and upstream teams in select countries within the Eastern Africa Region. The officer will be responsible for supporting business and project development, ensuring that projects align with client and market needs. This role requires participation in senior-level client meetings to provide technical advice and monitor the progress of implementing reforms that unlock investment opportunities. The Operations Officer will also engage with various stakeholders, including government clients and private sector entities, to enhance the visibility of IFC/WBG and support the implementation of high-quality projects. The position is based in Harare, Zimbabwe, but may involve assignments in other Southern African countries as well.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Operations Officer will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including: supporting business and project development in alignment with client and market needs; participating in senior-level client meetings to provide technical advice and monitor reform implementation; ensuring high-quality project implementation and timely deliverables; engaging with relevant teams at the World Bank and IFC to facilitate necessary reforms; overseeing the advisory portfolio in Zimbabwe and other Eastern and Southern Africa countries; conducting research and diagnostics relevant to clients and stakeholders; managing project budgets and finances for effective implementation; and improving the visibility of IFC/WBG among senior clients in government and the private sector.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Operations Officer position must possess a Master’s degree in Law, Economics, Business, Finance, or a closely related field, or have relevant professional certification. Additionally, applicants should have at least 5-8 years of experience in private sector development, particularly in delivering advisory engagements focused on private sector-oriented reform projects. A strong track record of working with government clients and hands-on experience in public policy to support private sector development is highly advantageous. Familiarity with IFC and WBG products and instruments, as well as experience in cross-organizational collaboration, will be beneficial.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for the Operations Officer position include a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as Law, Economics, Business, or Finance. Alternatively, candidates may also qualify with professional certifications that demonstrate expertise in these areas. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of private sector development and the economic landscape in which IFC operates.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 5-8 years of relevant experience in private sector development. This experience should include a focus on delivering advisory engagements and reform projects that support private sector growth. A proven ability to work with government clients and a strong understanding of public policy issues related to private sector development will be critical for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for the Operations Officer position, as excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential for engaging with clients and stakeholders. While additional languages may be beneficial, English proficiency is the primary requirement for this role.

Additional Notes:
The Operations Officer position is a local recruitment role with a term duration of 3 years. The position is full-time and may involve travel to other countries in Southern Africa as part of the job responsibilities. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, paid leave, and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.