Senior Industry Specialist – TMT

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 foster economic development by promoting 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 help end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity on a livable planet. With a workforce that spans various sectors and regions, IFC plays a crucial role in supporting sustainable economic growth through investments and advisory services.

Job Overview:
The Senior Industry Specialist position within IFC's Global Telecoms, Media, and Technology (TMT) unit is pivotal for driving the growth and innovation of IFC’s TMT business. The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting technical and operational assessments of investment and strategic opportunities in the TMT sector. This role requires a deep understanding of the telecommunications landscape, particularly in emerging markets, and the ability to provide expert opinions on various aspects of investment, advisory, and strategic opportunities. The position is based in Washington D.C., Paris, or Dubai and involves collaboration with regional infrastructure teams, business development, project assessment, and strategic initiatives across the TMT value chain. The candidate is expected to have extensive market experience and sound business judgment, enabling them to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams and contribute to the overall success of IFC’s TMT initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Industry Specialist include:

• Investment Processing: Collaborating with investment teams and clients to provide technical and business input throughout the project cycle, from business development to portfolio supervision. This includes project screening, appraisal, and portfolio management.
• Advisory Engagements: Designing, evaluating, and implementing advisory engagements with clients, leveraging in-house expertise and mobilizing external consultants as needed.
• Strategy and Business Development: Contributing to market creation and business development initiatives, assessing industry opportunities, and leading the development of knowledge products.
• Mentorship: Mentoring and developing junior staff within the team.
• Liaison: Engaging with current and prospective clients, consultants, co-investors, technology providers, and contractors to foster collaboration and support project success.
• Travel: The role requires regular international travel to engage with stakeholders and assess project implementations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Telecommunications, Electrical or Network Engineering, or a related field. They should have extensive technical and commercial expertise in the telecommunications sector, with a minimum of 15 years of operational experience. A deep understanding of mobile network operators, towers, broadband, and datacenters is essential, along with familiarity with emerging technologies such as AI, satellites, and energy solutions. Strong analytical skills and the ability to evaluate capital and operational costs are also required, as well as experience in project management and construction models.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree in relevant fields such as Telecommunications, Electrical Engineering, or Network Engineering. This advanced education is crucial for understanding the complex technical and commercial aspects of the telecommunications industry.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 15 years of operational experience in the telecommunications sector, with significant exposure to both developed and emerging markets. Experience as a lender's or sponsor's engineer, or a consultancy background, is highly desirable. The candidate should also have a proven track record of working across organizational boundaries and interacting with senior counterparts in the private sector, industry, and government.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization. Proficiency in additional languages such as French and Spanish is preferred, as these languages are beneficial for engaging with clients and stakeholders in various markets.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a contract duration of three years. It involves international recruitment, and the successful candidate will be expected to travel frequently. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans, medical and life insurance, paid leave, and parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees regardless of gender, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.