Operations Officer

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 in developing countries, with a mission to end extreme poverty and promote shared prosperity sustainably. IFC's strategic initiatives, particularly the IFC 3.0 strategy, are designed to stimulate investment activity in low-income countries and fragile states, thereby enhancing economic growth and development.

Job Overview:
The Operations Officer position at IFC is pivotal in supporting the Country Advisory and Economics team for the Eastern and Southern Africa Region. This role involves working closely with various teams within IFC and the World Bank Group to facilitate project development and implementation that aligns with client and market needs. The Operations Officer will engage in high-level discussions with government and private sector stakeholders to provide technical advice and monitor the progress of reforms aimed at unlocking investment opportunities. The position requires a proactive approach to project supervision, ensuring quality control over deliverables, and fostering collaboration across different teams to enhance the visibility and impact of IFC's initiatives in the region. The role also emphasizes knowledge sharing and research to advance policy dialogue and improve the private sector ecosystem.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Operations Officer will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties, including: supporting business and project development aligned with client needs; participating in senior-level client meetings to provide technical advice; monitoring the implementation of reforms to unlock investment; ensuring high-quality project supervision and completion documents; engaging with relevant teams at the World Bank and IFC for necessary reforms; overseeing the advisory portfolio in Kenya and other Eastern African countries; enhancing engagement with government and private sector leaders; facilitating knowledge sharing sessions; conducting research and diagnostics relevant to clients; and managing resources effectively for project implementation. This role requires a collaborative mindset and the ability to navigate complex stakeholder environments to drive impactful results.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in Law, Economics, Business, Finance, or a closely related field, or hold a professional certification. A minimum of 5 years of experience in private sector development is essential, particularly in delivering advisory engagements focused on private sector-oriented reform projects. A strong track record of working with government clients and hands-on experience in public policy to support private sector development is highly advantageous. Familiarity with IFC and World Bank Group products and instruments, as well as experience in cross-organizational collaboration, will be beneficial. Candidates should also demonstrate the ability to conceptualize research and analytical projects that can lead to new market opportunities or innovative thematic approaches.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in relevant fields such as Law, Economics, Business, or Finance. Alternatively, candidates may hold professional certifications that align with the responsibilities of the role. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of private sector development and the economic landscape in which IFC operates.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of relevant experience in private sector development, particularly in delivering advisory projects that focus on reform initiatives. Candidates should have a proven history of engaging with government clients and a strong understanding of public policy as it relates to private sector growth. Experience working with IFC and World Bank Group products will be considered a significant advantage, as will any experience in conceptualizing and executing research projects that facilitate market development.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the organization and with external stakeholders. While additional languages are not specified as mandatory, proficiency in other languages relevant to the Eastern African region may be considered beneficial and could enhance a candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity based in Nairobi, Kenya, with a term duration of 3 years. The role is full-time and may involve travel to other countries within the Eastern Africa region as part of project implementation and stakeholder engagement. 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 candidates regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.