Senior Communications Officer - Partnerships and Blended Finance

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 leverages its capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities that help end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity on a livable planet. With a mission to foster sustainable economic growth, IFC plays a crucial role in supporting private sector initiatives that contribute to the development of emerging economies.

Job Overview:
The Senior Communications Officer will be responsible for leading both external and internal communications for IFC’s Partnerships and Blended Finance operations. This role is pivotal in increasing the visibility of these operations through strategic communications initiatives. The selected candidate will collaborate closely with the leadership and staff of the Partnerships & Blended Finance Department, which is part of the Economics and Private Sector Development Vice Presidency. The department is tasked with securing and deploying externally raised funds to support IFC’s priority areas while developing and maintaining strategic relationships with various development partners, including sovereigns, multilateral agencies, financial intermediaries, and philanthropic organizations. The position is based at IFC headquarters in Washington DC and reports to a Manager in the Communications department.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Communications Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Strategic Communications Planning: Collaborate with leadership to co-create a communications strategy for the department’s operations, design and deliver communications products and campaigns, formulate communications to support fundraising efforts, lead the development of impact stories, and position Partnerships and Blended Finance outcomes prominently within IFC’s narrative.
• Tactical Communications Implementation: Develop compelling stories for various communication channels, ensure that press releases highlight blended finance co-investments, and update guidelines to enhance partner visibility.
• Internal Communications: Create campaigns to educate staff about the value of Partnerships and Blended Finance work, maintain communication tools, and refine messaging for senior management briefing documents.
• Networks: Act as the liaison for IFC Partnerships and Blended Finance communications, building relationships with communications teams at key partner organizations.
• Monitoring and Evaluation: Develop KPIs to measure the impact of communications and outline risk management strategies related to corporate and operational communications involving partners.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in communications, journalism, political science, international relations, public affairs, marketing, business, finance, or a related field, along with at least 10 years of relevant experience. They should have a deep understanding of strategic communications, particularly in relation to partnerships and blended finance, and experience managing communications for fundraising initiatives. Candidates should also demonstrate highly developed verbal and written communication skills, the ability to convey complex messages succinctly, and a proven track record of anticipating risks and challenges in communications.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree is required in a relevant field such as communications, journalism, political science, international relations, public affairs, marketing, business, finance, or a related discipline. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of the role and the strategic communications required for effective partnerships and blended finance operations.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of experience in communications, with a strong emphasis on managing communications for partnerships or fundraising initiatives. Experience in blended finance operations and drafting impact stories is highly desirable. Familiarity with emerging markets and philanthropic organizations will be considered an advantage. Candidates should also have experience coaching team members and senior management in delivering messages effectively.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered beneficial but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
This position is an international recruitment opportunity with a contract duration of 3 years. The role is full-time and based in Washington DC. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, paid leave, and parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees regardless of gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.