Climate Infrastructure Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Green Climate Fund (GCF) is the world’s largest dedicated multilateral climate fund, established in 2010 by the 194 countries that are Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The GCF aims to support developing countries in their efforts to respond to climate change while fostering sustainable development. With a portfolio of 297 projects across 133 countries and a total commitment of USD 16.6 billion to date, the GCF is committed to mobilizing a much higher scale of public and private sector financial flows for climate action. The organization is headquartered in the Republic of Korea and operates with a diverse workforce of over 300 employees, representing almost 80 nationalities. GCF's mission is to provide financial assistance for transformative climate projects, ensuring that actions are tailored to the unique circumstances and national aspirations of each nation it supports. The GCF also builds the capacity of developing countries to take climate action through its extensive Readiness Programme, which equips countries to manage their climate futures effectively.

Job Overview:
The Climate Infrastructure Specialist will play a crucial role in developing an active pipeline of transformative proposals aimed at mobilizing public investment in climate mitigation and adaptation, particularly focusing on infrastructure sectors such as Transport, Energy, and Water. This position requires the individual to engage with GCF’s accredited entities, National Designated Authorities, and partner organizations in developing countries, which is essential for the success of the role. The Specialist will be responsible for project origination, technical review, structuring, implementation, and portfolio management across the Latin America and the Caribbean Department (DLAC). The role demands a commitment to making a positive, measurable difference through a mission-driven approach, thriving in a fast-paced, diverse environment. The Specialist will need to quickly analyze complex issues and lead teams to find solutions across multiple geographic locations, nurturing talent and exemplifying values of transparency, respect, and innovation. The position also involves collaborating with various stakeholders to ideate, develop, and implement climate action initiatives that significantly impact people and the planet.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Climate Infrastructure Specialist include:

• Developing an active pipeline of transformative projects and proposals for public sector climate investments in Latin America and the Caribbean.
• Leading project origination, technical review, structuring, implementation, and portfolio management.
• Engaging with policymakers, senior-level government officials, and industry players to assess investment theses.
• Adapting GCF procedures to achieve strategic objectives related to public sector infrastructure projects.
• Applying industry best practices to identify, design, and execute innovative public sector climate investments.
• Collaborating with domain-level specialists to develop risk mitigation strategies for funding proposals.
• Promoting awareness of GCF offerings and developing relationships with Accredited Entities to strengthen engagement.
• Delivering proposal reviews and assessments promptly, ensuring compliance with GCF’s investment criteria.
• Managing the project cycle effectively, coordinating with relevant teams and stakeholders to ensure successful project implementation. 1
• Leading the negotiation and post-approval processes for funding agreements and portfolio management.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Master's level degree in finance, MBA, CFA, or equivalent, with additional studies in ESG investing, sustainable finance, climate finance, or related fields. Alternatively, a relevant Bachelor's degree with an additional 2 years of relevant work experience is acceptable. Candidates must have at least 9 years of relevant work experience in climate finance, impact investment, investment advisory, or regional/international investment facilities. Demonstrated experience in leading and structuring investment proposals in impact investing, ESG, or climate mitigation/adaptation is essential. Proven project management skills, including design implementation, transaction appraisal, financial structuring, and deal management, are required. Experience in climate finance projects in international/developing countries, particularly in Latin America and the Caribbean, is highly desirable. Candidates should also have experience in building and managing financial models, drafting contracts, and managing project risks.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master's level degree in finance, MBA, CFA, or equivalent, with additional studies in ESG investing, sustainable finance, climate finance, or related fields. Alternatively, a relevant Bachelor's degree with an additional 2 years of relevant work experience is acceptable. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of climate finance and investment strategies necessary for the role.

Experience:
The position requires at least 9 years of relevant work experience in climate finance, impact investment, investment advisory, or regional/international investment facilities. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in leading and structuring investment proposals, project management, and financial structuring. Experience in climate finance projects, particularly in developing countries, especially in Latin America and the Caribbean, is highly desirable. The role demands a proven track record of working within cross-functional teams and managing financial models and risks associated with projects.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory. Proficiency in Spanish and Portuguese is highly desirable, as it will facilitate communication and collaboration with stakeholders in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified at the IS-4 grade level, with a salary of USD 129,400 plus attractive benefits, including relocation, dependency, housing, education assistance, and home country travel allowances. The closing date for applications is 13 April 2025, and applications submitted after this date may not be considered. Candidates who do not meet all educational and experience criteria but are otherwise suitable may be offered a position at the IS3 level. The selection process will consider performance at interviews, appropriate testing, and references. Applications from women and nationals of developing countries are strongly encouraged.