Senior Infrastructure Finance Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank is a global development cooperative established to assist countries in addressing their most pressing development challenges. Founded in 1944, it is owned by 189 member countries and is the largest development bank in the world. The organization provides financial products such as loans, guarantees, and advisory services to middle-income and creditworthy low-income countries. The World Bank operates in numerous countries worldwide, focusing on various sectors including infrastructure, health, education, and environmental sustainability. Its mission is to reduce poverty and promote shared prosperity by providing financial and technical assistance to developing countries.

Job Overview:
The Senior Infrastructure Finance Specialist position at the World Bank involves leading the delivery of infrastructure finance projects, particularly in the Sub-Saharan Africa and Asia regions. The role requires a deep understanding of infrastructure finance, public-private partnerships (PPPs), and the ability to engage with various stakeholders to mobilize private sector investment in infrastructure. The specialist will be responsible for overseeing project preparation, implementation, and monitoring, ensuring that best practices are applied throughout the project lifecycle. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of sustainable infrastructure solutions that can significantly impact economic opportunities for underserved populations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Infrastructure Finance Specialist include leading business development efforts for regional portfolios, coordinating with World Bank Group counterparts to identify opportunities for private participation in infrastructure projects, and overseeing project screening and application processes. The specialist will ensure that best practices in public-private capital design are applied, manage relationships with regional Technical Partners, and represent the Global Infrastructure Facility (GIF) at key events. Additionally, the specialist will contribute to knowledge dissemination, financial and operational reporting, and the planning of GIF governance meetings.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or equivalent in economics, finance, engineering, management, policy, or a related field. A minimum of eight years of relevant experience in private infrastructure project preparation, finance, regulation, or PPPs is required. The ideal candidate should have a strong track record of working in emerging markets, extensive experience in infrastructure finance, and a solid understanding of PPP policies and practices. Experience with Trust Fund operations and grant processing is a plus, along with the ability to develop senior-level partnerships across various sectors.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field such as economics, finance, engineering, management, or policy. This advanced education is essential for understanding the complexities of infrastructure finance and project management in a global context.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of eight years of relevant experience in the field of private infrastructure project preparation, finance, regulation, or PPPs. Candidates should demonstrate a strong ability to engage on a range of issues in developing countries, including program and project preparation and development. Experience within the World Bank, IFC, or other multilateral development banks is highly desirable, as is a proven track record of working in emerging markets and developing economies.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English, with proficiency in French considered a preferred asset. Strong communication skills in both languages are essential for effective collaboration and stakeholder engagement.

Additional Notes:
This position is an international recruitment opportunity with a term duration of three years. The role is available in two locations: Nairobi, Kenya, and Singapore. 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 employees regardless of gender, identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.