Principal Water Sector Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is an international financial institution founded in 199

• Its mission is to promote the transition to open market-oriented economies and to foster private and entrepreneurial initiative in countries from Central Europe to Central Asia. The EBRD operates in over 30 countries and employs around 2,000 staff members. The organization focuses on various sectors, including infrastructure, energy, and financial institutions, and aims to support sustainable development and economic growth in the regions it serves.

Job Overview:
The Principal Water Sector Specialist plays a crucial role in the technical aspects of water sector projects throughout all phases of the investment cycle. This position primarily focuses on project preparation, with some involvement in project implementation and monitoring. The specialist will assess project opportunities and risks, ensuring that sustainable solutions are integrated into urban and regional projects. The role also supports the Bank's infrastructure strategy, requiring a deep understanding of complex water sector projects and the ability to analyze diverse project structures and risks. The specialist will work closely with the Sustainable Infrastructure Policy & Project Preparation (SI3P) team, which consists of technical and financial experts dedicated to developing high-quality projects aligned with the Bank's transition mandate. The Principal Water Sector Specialist will provide technical authority to banking teams, assisting in project preparation, appraisal, and monitoring, while also contributing to the development of cross-sector project opportunities that integrate water, energy, and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Principal Water Sector Specialist will be responsible for leading technical due diligence to evaluate the viability of projects in preparation. Key responsibilities include screening project proposals, participating in pre-feasibility site visits, engaging with stakeholders, preparing project documentation, overseeing consultant-led technical due diligence, and providing technical inputs for securing donor financing. The specialist will also assist in developing Green City Action Plans, draft technical sections of internal memos, and provide robust technical opinions at Bank Committees and Board meetings. In addition, the specialist will support project monitoring and resolution of delivery issues, ensuring that projects align with the Bank's integrity and sustainability goals. The role requires maintaining awareness of market trends and seeking integrated approaches to enhance project outcomes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a degree in a relevant engineering or technical discipline, with an additional higher degree in finance, economics, or business being advantageous. A proven track record in the water sector, particularly with infrastructure utility companies, financial institutions, or technical consultancy firms, is essential. Candidates should have experience in technical due diligence, project monitoring, and knowledge of both conventional and non-conventional water solutions. Familiarity with low-carbon pathways in the water sector and international experience will be considered beneficial. Strong analytical skills, effective communication abilities, and experience working in cross-cultural teams are also required.

Educational Background:
A degree in a relevant engineering or technical discipline is mandatory. An additional higher degree in finance, economics, or business is preferred, as it enhances the candidate's qualifications for the role. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in both theoretical concepts and practical applications relevant to the water sector.

Experience:
Candidates should have substantial experience in the water sector, particularly in roles related to infrastructure utility companies, corporate/project finance groups, or international financial institutions. Experience in technical consultancy, project monitoring, and delivering projects within time, cost, and quality parameters is essential. Familiarity with cross-cultural teamwork and an understanding of banking and business principles will be advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent verbal and written communication skills. Proficiency in a language from one of the Bank's countries of operation, preferably Russian, is desirable and will enhance the candidate's ability to engage with stakeholders effectively.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a regular contract type. The contract length is not specified, but the posting end date for applications is set for June 29, 202

• The EBRD encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of their background, promoting diversity and inclusion within the workplace. The organization offers a hybrid work environment that emphasizes flexibility and employee well-being, along with a comprehensive suite of competitive benefits.