Investment Analyst - New Business Manufacturing

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 on a livable planet. IFC's mission is to stimulate investment activity, particularly in Low Income Countries (LICs) and Fragile and Conflict Situations (FCS), through a new strategy called 'Creating Markets.' This strategy emphasizes proactive market creation and collaboration with governments and World Bank colleagues to enable private sector solutions and financing. For more information about IFC and its initiatives, visit www.ifc.org.

Job Overview:
The Investment Analyst position within the Manufacturing, Agribusiness and Services sector team at IFC is designed for individuals who are eager to work closely with Investment Officers. These officers are responsible for the origination, structuring, negotiation, and supervision of investment projects. The role of the Investment Analyst is crucial as it involves identifying new projects and assisting Investment Officers in executing transactions and monitoring portfolios. This position is based in Dakar, Senegal, and is part of IFC's global recruitment for investment analysts, who are typically hired on two-year term contracts that can be extended up to a maximum of five years. Upon completion of their contracts, investment analysts often pursue further education or gain additional work experience, making this role an excellent stepping stone for career advancement in the field of investment and development finance.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Investment Analyst will be responsible for a variety of tasks that are essential to the success of investment or advisory transactions. Key duties include: fully understanding the financial aspects of transactions, conducting market analysis, and determining the financial soundness of company or project opportunities. The analyst must demonstrate proficiency in financial statement analysis, accounting, finance, financial modeling, discounted cash flow (DCF) analysis, and comparable company analysis to support informed decision-making. Additionally, the analyst will conduct market and industry research, demonstrate attention to detail, and perform thoughtful scenario analysis. The role requires the ability to analyze and synthesize debt pricing benchmarks and equity trading comparables, as well as a basic understanding of how investments impact economic, market, and social development. The analyst will identify data collection needs, coordinate with clients to obtain necessary information, and demonstrate active listening skills to identify client and stakeholder needs. Furthermore, the analyst will distill and summarize large amounts of information to prepare business documents and presentations, write logically and concisely, and utilize graphics and tables to present data effectively. Lastly, the analyst will extract lessons from IFC's earlier investments to provide input for structuring straightforward transactions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree or an equivalent qualification. Additionally, a minimum of 2 years of experience working in a financial institution, particularly in investment projects, is required. The ability to develop complex financial models is essential, along with a keen interest in development finance and the ability to thrive in multicultural environments. Candidates should be highly motivated, committed to ethical standards, and capable of working successfully in diverse teams. Strong knowledge of financial markets, analytical and conceptual skills in corporate/project finance, and the ability to communicate clearly and concisely both orally and in writing are also necessary qualifications for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Investment Analyst position includes a Bachelor's degree or an equivalent qualification in finance, economics, business administration, or a related field. This foundational education is critical for understanding the complexities of investment analysis and financial modeling, which are central to the role.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have at least 2 years of relevant experience in a financial institution, with a focus on investment projects. This experience should ideally involve working on financial analysis, market research, and investment transactions, providing the candidate with the necessary skills to excel in the role of Investment Analyst.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as is fluency in French. These language skills are essential for effective communication within the organization and with clients, particularly in the context of investment projects in Francophone regions. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The Investment Analyst position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 3 years, which may be extended based on performance and organizational needs. The role is full-time and offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. IFC is committed to being an equal opportunity and inclusive employer, ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly and without discrimination based on gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.