Investment Officer - Transaction Advisory

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, with a mission to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity on a livable planet. IFC employs over 120 staff members in its Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Transaction Advisory Services (CTAPP) division, which has been active for more than 25 years, managing over 100 client engagements globally. The organization is committed to increasing access to basic infrastructure and social services, facilitating private investments, and providing advisory services to governments for structuring and implementing PPP and privatization transactions.

Job Overview:
The Investment Officer (IO) position within the Southern Africa team at IFC is a critical role that supports the regional team and management throughout the entire PPP transaction process. The IO will act as the Lead Transaction Advisor for various projects across 12 countries in Southern Africa, including South Africa, Angola, Botswana, and others. The role involves advising on a range of transactions, particularly in the infrastructure sectors such as energy, water, and transportation. The IO will collaborate closely with the World Bank to ensure alignment with country strategies and facilitate access to expertise in institutional reforms and regulatory frameworks. This position requires a proactive approach to business development, client relationship management, and the ability to navigate complex project environments while delivering high-quality advisory services.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Investment Officer include, but are not limited to: contributing to origination and marketing activities across the South Africa region; managing marketing efforts in assigned countries; developing new client relationships and project leads; understanding legal and regulatory barriers to private sector participation; undertaking project feasibility assessments; leading project preparation and managing teams on sell-side PPP mandates; preparing and reviewing internal documentation for approvals; managing consultants and reviewing their outputs; developing innovative transaction structures; participating in meetings with government clients and investors; organizing and managing tendering processes; coaching and managing junior team members; supporting upstream activities in line with IFC 3.0; coordinating with various WBG groups on PPP opportunities; and assisting in knowledge management and dissemination of best practices in PPP and corporate finance.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Investment Officer position must possess an MBA or equivalent postgraduate degree in business, finance, or economics. A solid and relevant experience of at least 10-12 years in project finance, corporate finance, M&A, privatizations, or private equity funds in infrastructure is essential. Additionally, a minimum of 2-4 years of experience in sell/buy-side M&A advisory is considered a plus. Candidates should have a strong understanding of industry sector trends, particularly in infrastructure transactions and PPPs, preferably within the African context. Proven business development and client relationship skills, along with a strong track record of contractual and financial closings of infrastructure transactions, are required. Existing relationships with government officials, project developers, and investors in Africa are preferred, as well as experience in managing teams and delivering high-quality work under tight deadlines.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Investment Officer role includes an MBA or an equivalent postgraduate degree in business, finance, or economics. This advanced education is crucial for understanding complex financial models, transaction structures, and the regulatory environment in which the IFC operates.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically at least 10-12 years in relevant fields such as project finance, corporate finance, M&A, and privatizations. Candidates should have a minimum of 2-4 years of experience in sell/buy-side M&A advisory, which is advantageous. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in infrastructure transactions and PPPs, particularly in the African market, demonstrating the ability to manage multiple transactions effectively and deliver results within deadlines.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and with clients. Knowledge of Portuguese is considered a valuable asset, as it may facilitate interactions with stakeholders in Portuguese-speaking countries within the region.

Additional Notes:
The Investment Officer position is a full-time role with a contract duration of three years. The recruitment is open to international candidates, reflecting the global nature of the IFC's operations. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical, life, and disability insurance, as well as paid leave, including parental leave. IFC is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of gender, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.