Senior Operations / Senior Investment Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a member of the World Bank Group and is recognized as the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. Established to promote economic development by encouraging private sector investment, IFC operates in over 100 countries worldwide. The organization aims to leverage its capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities that can help end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity. IFC is committed to advancing gender equality and economic inclusion, as outlined in its 2030 Roadmap for Gender and Inclusion, which seeks to foster partnerships and programs that accelerate gender equality in emerging markets. The organization has a dedicated team, the Gender and Economic Inclusion Department (GEID), which collaborates with investment and advisory teams to provide equal economic opportunities for all genders and underserved communities. IFC's mission is to create sustainable economic opportunities and development for all, focusing on innovative solutions and partnerships.

Job Overview:
The Senior Operations / Senior Investment Officer position at IFC is a pivotal role that involves managing and delivering projects within the West and Central Africa region. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring high-quality service delivery to both internal and external clients while maintaining strong project governance. This role requires a proactive approach to identifying and embedding gender and economic inclusion solutions into existing and future investment and advisory projects. The officer will collaborate with various teams to design and implement country-level programs that address gender barriers and achieve measurable outcomes. Additionally, the position entails advising sub-regional and country management on gender issues, supporting communications efforts, and engaging with partners and stakeholders to promote gender and economic inclusion initiatives. The officer will also play a key role in mentoring and managing regional operations staff, fostering a community of gender experts, and ensuring effective project delivery across the subregion.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Operations / Senior Investment Officer include managing the delivery of existing portfolio projects in the West and Central Africa region, ensuring high-quality services to clients, and maintaining strong internal project governance. The officer will deliver client projects and manage relationships across the subregion, while also identifying opportunities to include gender and economic inclusion solutions in investment and advisory projects. Responsibilities also include leading collaboration with IFC industry teams to design and deliver coordinated programs that address gender barriers, advising sub-regional management on gender issues, and providing consistent inputs in strategies. The officer will support the partnerships team with fundraising and donor relationship management, oversee donor reporting from a gender perspective, and mentor regional operations staff. Building and nurturing a community of gender experts across the region is also a key responsibility.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Senior Operations / Senior Investment Officer position should possess a Master's degree in economics, finance, business, or a related discipline. A minimum of ten years of professional experience in private sector development in emerging markets is required, with a focus on gender and inclusion. The ideal candidate will have experience in structuring investment and advisory projects, including developing results frameworks to capture gender and inclusion outcomes. A broad understanding of gender and economic inclusion topics, along with the ability to engage with credibility and confidence, is essential. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, excellent oral and written communication abilities in both English and French, and a demonstrated commitment to IFC's core values are also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in a relevant field such as economics, finance, or business. This advanced degree is essential for understanding the complexities of private sector development and the specific challenges related to gender and economic inclusion in emerging markets.

Experience:
The position requires at least ten years of professional experience in private sector development, particularly in emerging markets. Candidates should have a proven track record of decision-making responsibility and experience in leading initiatives, programs, and projects. The ability to manage staff and consultants effectively, along with a successful history of meeting project deadlines and setting priorities, is crucial for this role.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English, with proficiency in French being preferred. Strong communication skills in both languages are essential for interacting with senior management, development partners, and stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an international recruitment role with a term duration of three years. The Senior Operations / Senior Investment Officer will be expected to work full-time and may involve travel within the West and Central Africa region. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical and life insurance, paid leave, and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusiveness, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees.