(Senior) Industry Specialist – AgTech

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group (WBG) is a unique partnership of five global institutions dedicated to ending poverty, increasing shared prosperity, and promoting sustainable development. Established in 1944, the WBG has grown to include 189 member countries and operates more than 120 offices worldwide. It serves as one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, working with both public and private sector partners to invest in groundbreaking projects that address the most urgent global challenges. The WBG Planet Vice Presidency focuses on delivering knowledge for impact, enabling the WBG to achieve its goals in support of its mission, particularly in areas such as agribusiness, healthcare, infrastructure, manufacturing, and tourism. The organization aims to replicate and scale effective solutions, enhance thought leadership and innovation, and deliver timely knowledge to client teams.

Job Overview:
The (Senior) Industry Specialist on AgTech will play a crucial role in the Agribusiness unit, focusing on the identification, development, and execution of the AgTech approach. This position is designed for an individual with expertise in AgTech investments, including early-stage accelerators, climate-focused VC funds, venture debt, and direct equity investments. The specialist will be responsible for ensuring that the AgTech strategy aligns with the broader objectives of the WBG/IFC, which include building resilient and sustainable agrifood systems. The role requires extensive travel to conduct due diligence on potential investment companies, providing in-depth industry knowledge to assess new investment opportunities, and supervising portfolio investments. The specialist will also collaborate with various stakeholders to enhance the AgTech ecosystem and contribute to the development of innovative solutions that address challenges faced by agribusinesses in emerging markets.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The (Senior) Industry Specialist will report to the Sector Lead and will be accountable for a variety of tasks, including: assisting the Agribusiness team in developing a comprehensive sector strategy for AgTech investments; identifying and mapping existing AgTech startups that align with WBG/IFC's investment mandate; conducting due diligence to assess project strengths and weaknesses; collaborating with Blended Finance and other stakeholders to mitigate risks; providing industry and best practice advice to internal and external clients; assisting in the selection and supervision of technical consultants; representing WBG/IFC at conferences and seminars; participating in investment committee meetings; and supporting the review of advisory/upstream services proposals. The specialist will also be responsible for replicating and scaling high-impact projects and innovations across all WBG products.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of a Master's degree in a related field and have at least 15 years of operational experience, with a focus of 10 years specifically on AgTech, preferably within a strategic multinational or venture capital fund. A strong commitment to the World Bank Group’s mission, strategy, and values is essential. Proven experience in early-stage investments, venture capital, and/or private equity is strongly preferred, along with a solid understanding of the challenges and opportunities in farming best practices, climate resilience, and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security. Excellent written and spoken English skills are required, as well as the ability to write technical appraisal reports in a timely manner. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to work effectively in teams and build bridges across organizational boundaries, as well as a passion for understanding technology use cases in agribusiness.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in a relevant field is required for this position. This educational background should ideally be complemented by specialized training or certifications related to agribusiness, investment strategies, or sustainable development, which would enhance the candidate's ability to contribute effectively to the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 15 years of operational experience, with at least 10 years focused specifically on AgTech. This experience should include a strong background in early-stage investments, venture capital, and/or private equity, demonstrating a deep understanding of the agribusiness sector and its unique challenges and opportunities.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English, with excellent written and spoken skills required. While English proficiency is essential, knowledge of additional languages relevant to the regions of operation may be considered advantageous, particularly in enhancing communication with local stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a term duration of 3 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.