Regional Industry Director (RID) for the Financial Institutions Group (FIG)

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 these regions, aiming to mobilize private capital and provide solutions that contribute to a world free of poverty while ensuring a livable planet. For more information about IFC's mission and operations, visit their official website at www.ifc.org.

Job Overview:
The Regional Industry Director (RID) for the Financial Institutions Group (FIG) is a pivotal leadership role based in Vienna, responsible for overseeing FIG activities across Europe. This position requires a high level of leadership, management skills, and technical expertise to effectively guide 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 initiatives, and other areas. The RID will deliver both investment and advisory services to IFC’s clients through its extensive global network. This role involves managing key client and government relationships, 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 the region in collaboration with Division Directors, Country Managers, and the FIG Management team, 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 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 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, utilizing data and analytics to inform strategy and client engagement.
• Designing and implementing a business development strategy to ensure proactive client and FIG portfolio management in the region, in coordination with the regional leadership team. 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 to benefit clients. 1
• Supervising FIG Managers and acting as Secondary Supervisor or Reviewing Official for other FIG staff in the region. 1
• Implementing corporate initiatives aimed at enhancing efficiency and client service.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the Regional Industry Director position should possess a robust set of qualifications, including:

• Proven leadership and management experience in the financial sector, particularly in emerging markets.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to develop and implement effective business strategies.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, capable of building relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• A deep understanding of financial institutions and markets, including knowledge of investment and advisory services.
• Experience in managing teams and driving organizational performance.
• A track record of successful business development and client management in a complex environment.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a strong educational background, typically including:

• A Master’s degree in Finance, Business Administration, Economics, or a related field.
• Additional qualifications such as a CFA or equivalent would be advantageous.
• Continuous professional development in relevant areas of finance and investment is highly desirable.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience, typically including:

• At least 10-15 years of relevant experience in the financial sector, with a focus on private sector development and investment.
• Demonstrated experience in leadership roles, managing teams, and driving strategic initiatives.
• Experience working in or with emerging markets is essential, with a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities in these regions.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in additional languages, particularly German or French, would be considered an asset. The ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders in multiple languages is highly valued.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role based in Vienna, Austria. The contract duration is typically long-term, with opportunities for career advancement within the World Bank Group. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of nationality. Compensation and benefits are competitive and commensurate with experience, including health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.