Principal Banker

Job Posting Organization:
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is an international financial institution established in 1991 to support the development of market economies and promote private and entrepreneurial initiatives in countries from Central Europe to Central Asia. The EBRD operates in over 30 countries and has a mission to foster the transition to open market-oriented economies and to promote private and entrepreneurial initiatives. The organization employs a diverse workforce and is committed to inclusiveness, innovation, trust, and responsibility in its operations.

Job Overview:
The Principal Banker is a key role within the EBRD, responsible for overseeing all aspects of project development and implementation. This includes project origination, structuring, execution, implementation, and monitoring of various investment instruments offered by the Bank. The Principal Banker will serve as a senior member of a project team or as an operation leader, taking on significant responsibilities in leading project teams, supervising junior banking staff, and contributing to their professional development. The role also involves driving business development, managing client relationships, and engaging in policy dialogue as necessary. The Principal Banker will work specifically within the Food and Agribusiness sector, which aims to maximize the transition impact potential of companies in this field by providing tailored financing solutions. The position requires a deep understanding of the project life cycle, from origination to completion, and the ability to manage complex transactions effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Principal Banker will be responsible for structuring and executing complex transactions, leading project teams, and ensuring that all tasks are completed to a high standard and within specified time frames. This includes managing project due diligence processes, overseeing the quality of monitoring reports, and maintaining client relationships. The Principal Banker will also contribute to marketing and business development efforts, prepare presentations and proposals for clients, and assist in the recruitment and training of junior bankers. Additionally, the role involves ensuring compliance with donor reporting requirements and operational objectives, as well as actively managing the resolution of any implementation issues that arise.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree, with a Master’s degree preferred or equivalent experience in relevant areas. Professional qualifications such as ACA, CFA, ACCA, or CIMA are advantageous. Strong quantitative and numerical skills are essential, along with the ability to interpret financial information and design financial models. Candidates should have credit analysis skills, computer literacy, and excellent stakeholder management abilities. Relationship management and negotiation skills at a peer level are also required, as well as the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Excellent written and oral communication skills in English are mandatory, and proficiency in the local language is a plus.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should have a Bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, business administration, or a related field. A Master’s degree in a relevant discipline is preferred, as well as professional qualifications such as ACA, CFA, ACCA, or CIMA. This educational background will provide the necessary foundation for understanding complex financial transactions and project management.

Experience:
Candidates should have significant relevant experience in the financial industry, ideally from an investment or commercial bank, private equity firm, asset management firm, or auditing/financial consulting firm. Proven practical experience in leading transactions through the full project life cycle is essential, including building financial models, performing due diligence, and participating in legal negotiations. The role requires a strong understanding of the financial markets and the ability to manage complex projects effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent written and oral communication skills. Proficiency in Ukrainian is also required, and knowledge of additional languages is considered an advantage, particularly for engaging with local stakeholders and clients.

Additional Notes:
This position is a regular contract with a specified end date of 10/11/202

• The role may involve temporary relocation to Warsaw, Poland, depending on business needs. The EBRD promotes a hybrid workplace that offers flexibility and prioritizes employee wellbeing, providing a comprehensive suite of competitive benefits. The organization values diversity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their background.