Principal Investment 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 leverages its capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries, with a mission to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity on a livable planet. IFC is committed to sustainable development and works closely with various stakeholders to achieve its goals.

Job Overview:
The Principal Investment Officer position is a senior role within the Manufacturing, Agribusiness and Services (MAS) Africa Department at IFC. The individual will be responsible for sourcing, pre-structuring, and executing investment transactions specifically in the Manufacturing and Services sectors. This role emphasizes the importance of consumer services, including investments in tourism, property (both commercial and residential), retail, health, and education sectors. The Principal Investment Officer will be expected to cover activities across West, Central, North, and Horn of Africa, and will report to the Regional Industry Manager for Consumer Services. The position requires a strong origination track record, technical deal structuring skills, and the ability to manage relationships effectively. Frequent travel across Africa is anticipated as part of the role, highlighting the need for flexibility and adaptability in various environments.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Principal Investment Officer will engage in a variety of responsibilities, including leading business development efforts with a focus on the origination and execution of strategic and complex transactions. This involves deepening the strategic approach across different subsectors while aligning with overall strategies in Africa. The officer will collaborate closely with sector leads and investment officers to develop a robust business pipeline and will mentor junior colleagues in deal execution. Key responsibilities also include assessing investment opportunities with a focus on credit quality and development impact, proactively identifying potential investment partners, and managing relationships with key stakeholders in both the private and public sectors. The officer will execute various financing types, including loans, equity, and mezzanine financings, and will be responsible for conducting due diligence, structuring deals, negotiating terms, and ensuring compliance with investment agreements. Additionally, the officer will monitor client compliance, prepare supervision reports, and implement strategies for workouts or restructurings when necessary. High-quality client service throughout the project cycle is essential, as is the ability to coach and supervise junior colleagues effectively.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Principal Investment Officer position must possess an MBA or a master’s degree in finance or a related field. A minimum of 15 years of relevant work experience is required, ideally with a major commercial or investment bank, international financial institution, or private equity firm that has a significant presence in emerging markets. The ideal candidate should have experience leading teams and managing investment transactions, demonstrating success in developing client relationships and leading complex negotiations. Knowledge of the tourism, retail, property, health, and education sectors is advantageous. Strong business judgment, technical skills in analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">financial analysis, and risk mitigation are essential, along with the ability to structure various financial instruments and close transactions effectively. Excellent client relationship skills and the ability to work independently and under pressure are also critical.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an MBA or a master’s degree in finance or a related discipline. This advanced education is crucial for understanding complex financial instruments and investment strategies, which are integral to the role of Principal Investment Officer.

Experience:
The position requires at least 15 years of relevant experience in investment banking, private equity, or international finance, particularly in emerging markets. Candidates should have a proven track record of leading investment transactions and managing client relationships effectively. Experience in the consumer services sectors, particularly tourism, retail, property, health, and education, is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and with clients. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the regions of operation is considered a plus and may enhance the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is a full-time role with a term duration of three years. It involves international recruitment, indicating that candidates from various countries are encouraged to apply. The role is expected to require extensive travel across Africa, reflecting the need for geographic flexibility. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans, medical and life insurance, paid leave, and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees.