Regional Industry Director, FIG, Europe

Job Posting Organization:
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a member of the World Bank Group (WBG) 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 worldwide. 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, demonstrating its commitment to mobilizing private capital and providing private-sector solutions to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development. For more information about IFC's mission and activities, visit www.ifc.org.

Job Overview:
The Regional Industry Director (RID) for the Financial Institutions Group (FIG) will be based in Vienna and will play a pivotal role in overseeing FIG activities across Europe. This leadership position demands significant experience in management and technical expertise to effectively lead the regional team. The RID will engage with various sub-sectors, including Banking, Microfinance, Insurance, Capital Markets, Housing, Distressed Assets, and Global Trade Finance. The focus will be on critical themes such as job creation, support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs/SMEs), gender equality, climate change, and other relevant areas. The RID will be responsible for delivering both investment and advisory services to IFC’s clients through its extensive global network. This role involves managing key relationships with clients and government entities, overseeing operations, and driving the business towards achieving IFC’s strategic objectives. The RID will report directly to the Regional Vice President for Latin America & the Caribbean and Europe and will be an integral part of the Core Leadership Team for the Regional Vice Presidency.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Regional Industry Director include, but are not limited to:

• Developing and implementing the FIG strategy and priorities in collaboration with Division Directors, Country Managers, and other Regional Industry Directors, focusing on business growth, profitability, and sustainable developmental impact.
• Leading and expanding the overall FIG business in the region, ensuring that origination and portfolio oversight are financially sound, profitable, and impactful.
• Strategically positioning the FIG business in Latin America and Europe by developing country strategies in close collaboration with the Regional Vice President and other Industry Regional Directors.
• Chairing Investment Review Meetings and making critical decisions regarding IFC investments in the regions.
• Overseeing Upstream and Advisory engagements for FIG in the region.
• Contributing to the execution of the FIG regional equity strategy in partnership with the Senior Manager of Equity, FIG.
• Collaborating with IBRD/IDA and MIGA to develop regional sector strategies.
• Working closely with the Knowledge Bank, Treasury teams, and other WBG partners to create and disseminate knowledge products, best practices, and lessons learned from the investment/advisory portfolio, leveraging data and analytics to inform strategy and client engagement.
• Designing and implementing a comprehensive strategy for business development and ensuring proactive client and FIG portfolio management in the region. 1
• Representing IFC to key clients and stakeholders, building and maintaining long-term relationships with public sector institutions, multilateral development banks (MDBs), donors, and investors. 1
• Collaborating with other World Bank Group entities to identify opportunities for joint ventures, resource mobilization, partnerships, and knowledge transfer.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master’s degree or an equivalent professional qualification in economics, finance, or business, along with at least 15 years of relevant experience. A strong commitment to the mission, strategy, and values of the World Bank Group and IFC is essential. Candidates should have a proven track record of business delivery, investment experience, and superior business judgment, with professional credibility across financial sector institutions and markets, including banks, non-bank financial institutions, capital markets, and fintech. Strong knowledge and experience in leading investment decision processes, including assessing credit, legal, and environmental and social (E&S) issues, are required. Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English are mandatory, and candidates should demonstrate strategic thinking, effective prioritization, and the ability to mobilize resources flexibly while supporting teamwork and collective leadership.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a master’s degree or an equivalent professional qualification in fields such as economics, finance, or business. This advanced education is crucial for understanding the complexities of financial institutions and the broader economic landscape in which they operate.

Experience:
The position requires at least 15 years of relevant experience in the financial sector, with a strong emphasis on investment and business development. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in leading large teams and managing complex projects in dynamic, multicultural environments. Proven ability to deliver results under tight deadlines and in high-pressure situations is essential, along with a history of successful stakeholder engagement and relationship management.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and with external stakeholders. While not required, proficiency in additional languages would be considered an asset, particularly those relevant to the regions in which IFC operates.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a contract duration of 4 years. It involves international recruitment, indicating that candidates from various countries are encouraged to apply. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.