Operations Officer - Ukraine Country Operations

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 support private sector development, the IFC focuses on creating markets and opportunities in emerging markets. With a presence in over 100 countries and more than 120 offices worldwide, the IFC is dedicated to ending poverty and promoting sustainable development. In fiscal year 2025, the IFC committed a record $71.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, demonstrating its commitment to leveraging private sector solutions and mobilizing private capital. The IFC has shown strong support for Ukraine, especially in light of the ongoing conflict, by delivering a $3 billion program aimed at bolstering the Ukrainian private sector and providing essential financial and advisory services across various critical sectors.

Job Overview:
The Operations Officer position at IFC in Kyiv is a dynamic role that involves supporting the Country Manager and the Regional Team in various operational and strategic functions. The officer will engage in business development, manage relationships with public partners, donors, and international financial institutions (IFIs), and provide operational support for IFC's activities in Ukraine. This role requires a proactive approach to identifying opportunities for collaboration and enhancing the solutions offered to clients. The Operations Officer will also be responsible for drafting materials, preparing briefs, and ensuring effective communication within the team and with external stakeholders. The position is crucial for facilitating the IFC's mission in Ukraine, particularly in the context of the country's recovery and economic resilience efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Operations Officer will have a wide range of responsibilities, including but not limited to: supporting business development efforts by providing input on project development and management; assisting project teams in coordinating missions and managing relationships with key clients and stakeholders; identifying opportunities to enhance client solutions by leveraging the resources of the World Bank Group; building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, banking partners, and government officials; conducting engagements with clients and stakeholders; monitoring project progress and evaluating performance; coordinating donor engagement activities and tracking follow-up actions; supporting fundraising pipeline development; drafting talking points and briefs for donor meetings; maintaining engagement records and preparing donor engagement reports; facilitating information sharing among development partners; developing relationships with stakeholders to identify business opportunities; representing IFC at high-profile events; and overseeing the production and delivery of communications materials.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree from a reputable university, preferably with a major in economics, business, or finance. A minimum of 7 years of relevant work experience in banking, finance, consulting, or a similar fast-paced environment is required. Experience engaging with government, donor partners, and the private sector in Ukraine is preferred. Candidates should demonstrate advanced skills in Excel and PowerPoint, along with solid experience in using AI-enabled tools. Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills are essential, as well as excellent teamwork abilities and the capacity to take initiative across organizational boundaries. Professionalism, confidentiality, and discretion are also important attributes for this role.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should have a Master’s degree from a reputable university, with a focus on economics, business, or finance. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of the financial and operational landscape in which the IFC operates, particularly in the context of emerging markets and development finance.

Experience:
The position requires at least 7 years of relevant work experience in sectors such as banking, finance, or consulting. Candidates should have a proven track record of engaging with government entities, donor partners, and the private sector, particularly within Ukraine. This experience is vital for effectively navigating the challenges and opportunities present in the region's economic landscape.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Ukrainian is mandatory for this position, as effective communication with local stakeholders and international partners is essential. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, but the primary requirement is strong verbal and written communication skills in the specified languages.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 3 years. The role is full-time and involves working closely with various stakeholders, including government officials, private sector representatives, and international partners. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical, life, and disability insurance, as well as paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates regardless of gender, identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.