Adviser (Lead Environmental Specialist)

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank is a vital source of financial and technical assistance to developing countries around the world. Established in 1944, it aims to reduce poverty and support development by providing loans, grants, and expertise to help countries implement projects that improve their economic prospects and quality of life. The organization operates in over 145 countries and has more than 182 offices globally, employing a diverse workforce dedicated to addressing the world's most pressing development challenges. The World Bank Group, which includes the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and the International Development Association (IDA), focuses on sustainable development, economic growth, and poverty alleviation. The Global Environment Facility (GEF), a multilateral financial mechanism created in 1991, is part of the World Bank and works to address global environmental issues while supporting national sustainable development initiatives. The GEF unites 186 countries in partnership with international institutions, civil society organizations, and the private sector to tackle challenges such as biodiversity loss and climate change.

Job Overview:
The Adviser (Lead Environmental Specialist) position at the World Bank is a critical role that involves strengthening the GEF Secretariat's capacity to design and implement innovative financing approaches aimed at mobilizing public and private capital for global environmental benefits. The successful candidate will report directly to the CEO and Chairperson, overseeing the Blended Finance and Private Sector Coordination Unit. This role is pivotal in advancing the GEF-9 programming directions, which emphasize the mobilization of private capital and the strategic use of concessional resources to catalyze larger investment flows for developing countries. The Adviser will provide strategic and technical advice on environmental and climate finance, engage with various stakeholders, and support the development of replicable financial products that can reduce risks associated with environmental investments. The position requires a deep understanding of blended finance principles and the ability to navigate complex financial landscapes to achieve measurable global environmental benefits.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Adviser will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Providing strategic and technical advice to the CEO and Chairperson on nature, environmental, and climate finance.
• Leading and coordinating the Blended Finance and Private Sector Coordination Unit to develop and assess blended finance proposals.
• Analyzing transaction structures and financial models to ensure alignment with GEF objectives.
• Engaging with GEF Agencies, multilateral development banks, and private sector stakeholders to advance resource mobilization.
• Supporting the development of financial products that lower the cost of capital for environmental investments.
• Advising on the use of various financial instruments to support environmental initiatives.
• Monitoring financial and environmental performance of relevant operations and initiatives.
• Leading the preparation of technical notes and decision memoranda for senior management.
• Contributing to knowledge products and staff capacity building on blended finance. 1
• Undertaking other responsibilities as required by the role.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in finance, economics, business administration, or a closely related field. A degree that combines finance or economics with environmental expertise is highly desirable. Additionally, a Chartered Financial Analyst designation or a comparable professional qualification in investment or finance is preferred. The role requires a minimum of twelve years of relevant professional experience, demonstrating a sustained track record in nature, environmental, climate, or development finance. Experience working with private sector clients and financial institutions is essential, particularly in contexts involving resource mobilization and blended finance.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in finance, economics, financial economics, business administration, or a closely related field. A combination of finance or economics with environmental or natural-resource expertise would be an asset. Candidates with a Chartered Financial Analyst designation or similar professional qualifications are highly regarded.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of twelve years of relevant professional experience. Candidates should have a proven track record in nature, environmental, climate, sustainable, or development finance. Experience in working with private sector clients, investors, and financial institutions is crucial, particularly in contexts involving resource mobilization and blended finance. Substantial experience with blended finance and concessional finance in emerging markets is also necessary, along with familiarity with multilateral settings and collaboration with development banks and international financial institutions.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English. Proficiency in one or more additional relevant languages is highly desirable, as it can enhance communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders across different regions.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as Term Staff (TERM-TR) and is part of an international recruitment effort. The closing date for applications is November 4, 2026, at 11:59 PM UTC. The role requires close collaboration with the CEO and Chairperson and involves regular supervision of the Blended Finance and Private Sector Coordination Unit. The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan, medical and life insurance, and paid leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates.