Chief/Principal Investment Officer - Subnational Finance Sector

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group (WBG) is a global organization dedicated to addressing the world's most pressing development challenges. Established to reduce poverty and promote sustainable economic growth, the WBG operates in 145 countries with over 182 offices worldwide. The organization employs a diverse workforce that collaborates across cultures and disciplines to create impactful solutions. The WBG is committed to investing in people, strengthening markets, and delivering scalable, data-driven solutions that improve lives. The organization is also focused on renewing its approach to knowledge through the Knowledge Bank, which aims to enhance the collection, storage, and sharing of knowledge to help countries achieve their development goals.

Job Overview:
The Chief/Principal Investment Officer (CIO/PIO) for the Subnational Finance Sector will play a pivotal role in leading business delivery and growth within this sector. This position involves contributing to business development, market opening, and addressing regulatory and client capacity challenges. The CIO/PIO will serve as the focal investment specialist, providing guidance to management and investment teams globally in project structuring, execution, and portfolio management. The role emphasizes thought leadership and knowledge sharing across the WBG, focusing on curated knowledge to support business development, market creation, innovation, and risk management. The CIO/PIO will also be responsible for developing scalable solutions and advisory products to assist teams in business development and client relationship management. This position requires a global focus and will involve regular travel commitments, reporting directly to the Manager for Urban, Subnational & Land Solutions and Impact.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Chief/Principal Investment Officer include ensuring that the WBG and IFC remain at the forefront of the development debate and serve as premier private sector financiers and thought leaders in the subnational finance sector. The CIO/PIO will lead the development of integrated IFC-World Bank replicable and scalable solutions and knowledge products that combine investment, advisory, and upstream engagement to enhance client impact and pipeline development. This includes leading business delivery and growth in IFC’s subnational investments, providing guidance to management and investment teams globally, and overseeing the strategy and work of the Global Cities Platform. The CIO/PIO will also manage relationships with key stakeholders in the Cities space, actively monitor industry and market trends, and lead a dedicated team, mentoring and coaching them to achieve their deliverables.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess at least 12 years of relevant experience, with 15+ years strongly preferred, particularly in the infrastructure sectors. Significant investment and sector experience in municipal and environmental infrastructure is essential, along with experience in capital market transactions and sustainability finance being a plus. A proven understanding of both public and private sector dynamics in the subnational business is required, as well as the ability to synthesize sector challenges and opportunities. Strong transaction experience in business development, origination, structuring, and portfolio management of infrastructure transactions in Emerging Markets is necessary, along with the ability to build and maintain strong relationships with city clients and government authorities. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving skills, sound business judgment, and a collaborative work style.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in finance, economics, or a related field is required for this position. An MBA is preferred, as it provides a strong foundation for understanding complex financial and economic concepts relevant to the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have extensive experience in the infrastructure sectors, particularly in municipal and environmental infrastructure. A strong background in capital market transactions and sustainability finance is advantageous. Experience working in Emerging Markets is essential, along with a willingness and ability to travel extensively as part of the role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization. Proficiency in additional languages is considered a plus, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders globally.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as Open-Ended Staff (OPEN-OP) and is part of an international recruitment effort. The role is full-time and involves significant responsibilities, including leading a dedicated team and managing high-level stakeholder relationships. The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, 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 candidates regardless of gender, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.