Infrastructure Finance Specialist

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 with 189 member countries and over 120 offices worldwide, the WBG is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries. The organization works with public and private sector partners to invest in groundbreaking projects and utilize data, research, and technology to address urgent global challenges. The Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA), a member of the WBG, focuses on promoting foreign direct investment into developing countries to combat extreme poverty and enhance shared prosperity. MIGA provides political risk insurance and credit enhancement to investors and lenders against losses caused by noncommercial risks. The WBG has recently launched the WBG Guarantee Platform, aimed at improving access to guarantees and tripling annual guarantee issuance to $20 billion by 203

• The Operational Strategy and Financing Solutions (MIGIG) unit within MIGA plays a crucial role in unlocking the potential of this platform, particularly in identifying bankable private sector projects that require WBG guarantee support.

Job Overview:
The Infrastructure Finance Specialist will be based in Washington, D.C., and will work closely with colleagues across the WBG-Guarantee Platform. This position involves providing financial solutions and expertise to support infrastructure investments across various sectors and regions. The specialist will be responsible for developing, structuring, and implementing project pipelines and transactions, conducting financial and risk analysis, and employing credit enhancement and risk mitigation solutions to mobilize private capital on competitive terms for government clients. A strong understanding of financial markets, financial analysis, and various debt instruments related to infrastructure and project financing is essential for this role. The Infrastructure Specialist will report to the Practice Manager of MIGIG and will play a key role in advising clients on the development and effective implementation of private investments for sustainable development in infrastructure, with a focus on private sector financing and climate transitions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Infrastructure Finance Specialist include advising clients both internally and externally (governments) on developing and implementing private investments for sustainable infrastructure development, particularly focusing on mobilizing private sector financing. The specialist will support the expansion of the project pipeline by identifying opportunities and candidate projects, as well as managing relationships with clients such as banks and institutional investors. The role also involves supporting Senior and Lead Infrastructure Finance specialists during the preparation, structuring, negotiation, closing, and monitoring of transactions related to investment and policy operations. The specialist will work with World Bank Task Teams to conduct due diligence for infrastructure finance operations, focusing on financial analysis and structuring financial solutions for raising commercial financing. Additionally, the specialist will develop and lead the conceptualization of MIGIG marketing materials and documentation, including knowledge products such as webinars, brochures, and case studies. The specialist will be an integral part of project teams focusing on risk assessment and allocation, financial structuring and analysis, transaction design, and project implementation and monitoring.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Infrastructure Finance Specialist position should possess a strong understanding of financial markets and instruments, particularly those related to infrastructure and project financing. They should have experience in developing and structuring financial solutions for infrastructure investments, as well as a proven track record of mobilizing private capital. The ideal candidate will have excellent analytical skills, strong communication abilities, and the capacity to work collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders. A deep understanding of climate finance and sustainable development principles is also highly desirable, as is experience in advising governments and private sector clients on infrastructure financing.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for the Infrastructure Finance Specialist position. Candidates should hold at least a master's degree in finance, economics, business administration, or a related field. Advanced degrees or certifications in project finance, investment analysis, or sustainable development will be considered an asset. A strong academic record demonstrating expertise in financial analysis and investment strategies is highly valued.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience in infrastructure finance, project financing, or related fields. Candidates should have a minimum of 5-7 years of relevant professional experience, preferably within international financial institutions, development banks, or consulting firms specializing in infrastructure investments. Experience in working with public and private sector clients, as well as a demonstrated ability to manage complex financial transactions, is crucial for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for the Infrastructure Finance Specialist position. Proficiency in additional languages, particularly those relevant to the regions where the WBG operates, is considered a strong advantage. Candidates who can communicate effectively in languages such as Spanish, French, or Arabic will be highly regarded, as these skills can enhance collaboration with diverse stakeholders and clients.

Additional Notes:
This position is part of the Japanese recruitment mission and offers a unique opportunity to build a career with impact at the World Bank Group. The role is full-time and based in Washington, D.C. The organization is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of nationality. Compensation and benefits will be competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications.