Principal, EU Partnerships

Job Posting Organization:
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is an international financial institution that was established in 199

• Its mission is to promote the transition to market economies and to foster private and entrepreneurial initiative in countries from Central Europe to Central Asia. The EBRD operates in over 30 countries and has a workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. The organization focuses on various sectors including infrastructure, energy, and financial institutions, and aims to support sustainable development and economic growth in the regions it serves.

Job Overview:
The Principal, EU Partnerships position at EBRD is crucial for managing a portfolio of European Union funds and partnerships. This role is designed for a leader who will provide strategic advice to enhance the EBRD's position as a leading agency in product quality and delivery. The Principal will be responsible for securing funding for strategic projects and maximizing the impact of the Bank's policy orientations. This position requires a deep understanding of donor funds and the ability to align donor priorities with the Bank's strategic objectives. The Principal will also mentor junior colleagues and work closely with various teams across the Bank to ensure effective delivery and impact of donor-funded activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage high-level strategic partnerships with key EU contacts, ensuring alignment with the Bank’s strategic priorities and donor interests.
• Serve as the primary liaison with EU representatives, fostering trust-based relationships and proactively identifying collaboration opportunities.
• Lead fundraising efforts with EU blending facilities, including developing project proposals and overseeing approval processes.
• Negotiate funding agreements and ensure compliance with internal policies and EU requirements.
• Act as the key internal focal point for EU blending, providing strategic guidance to sector and country teams.
• Represent the Bank in external EU meetings and contribute to internal policy and strategy development.
• Manage relationships with external EU Directorate-Generals and internal departments.
• Stay informed of EU policy trends and provide timely intelligence to senior management.
• Coordinate with sector and country teams to ensure funds are aligned with operational priorities. 1
• Provide leadership and mentoring to junior colleagues, promoting a collaborative team culture. 1
• Ensure adherence to internal procedures and manage risks related to EU relationships. 1
• Oversee the production of high-quality reports on EU funds and engage with Communications to enhance visibility.

Required Qualifications:

• Excellent understanding of EU institutions and facilities, the EU development agenda, and emerging policies.
• Proven experience in blended finance structures and the use of grants and concessional funding instruments.
• Strong knowledge of the global development architecture and donor policy priorities.
• Familiarity with results-based approaches to managing donor-funded programs.
• Understanding of EBRD’s business model and investment instruments.
• Excellent networking and partnership skills, with experience in international fora.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to influence and collaborate effectively.
• Excellent communication, pitching, and negotiation skills.
• Good organizational and problem-solving skills.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in international development, international relations, economics, finance, social science, or a related discipline is required for this position. This educational background is essential to understand the complexities of international partnerships and donor relations.

Experience:
The position requires extensive experience in managing donor funds and relationships, preferably in a multilateral or international development context involving the EU. Candidates should have substantive experience in building donor relations, mobilizing resources, and managing large donor portfolios. Experience in creating fundraising strategies and designing compelling funding proposals is also essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and verbal, is mandatory for this position. Additional languages may be beneficial but are not specified as requirements.

Additional Notes:
This position is a short-term contract lasting 23 months. It is based in London, United Kingdom, and involves a seniority level that requires significant experience and expertise in donor partnerships. The EBRD promotes a hybrid workplace that offers flexibility and prioritizes employee wellbeing, providing a comprehensive suite of competitive benefits.