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 foster economic development by promoting 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. In fiscal year 2024, IFC committed and mobilized a record $56.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, aiming to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity amidst global crises. IFC has recently launched an ambitious growth strategy known as IFC 3.0, which aims to stimulate investment activity and create unique opportunities by addressing regulatory and sector bottlenecks that hinder private capital flow into productive investments. This strategy emphasizes proactive engagement in policy reforms and programmatic interventions at both country and sector levels.

Job Overview:
The Investment Officer position is a critical role within IFC’s Infrastructure Department, primarily focusing on the MCT Region, which includes the Middle East, Central Asia, Türkiye, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. The selected candidate will be instrumental in leading and developing the MCT INR initiative, which promotes District Heating and District Cooling networks as essential solutions for energy efficiency in the region. The role requires a comprehensive understanding of the investment cycle, particularly in the development of utility-scale District Cooling and Heating Networks. The Investment Officer will work closely with various teams to enhance IFC's engagement in priority infrastructure sectors, ensuring that the organization effectively addresses the energy needs of MCT countries through innovative financial structures and strategic partnerships. This position demands a proactive approach to client engagement, focusing on optimizing the risk-return profile of investments while delivering significant development impact.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Investment Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: developing and implementing integrated investment and advisory programs in consultation with regional and industry teams; enhancing IFC’s engagement in infrastructure sectors, particularly in District Cooling and Heating Networks; building a robust pipeline of investment and advisory opportunities; executing plans to increase reliance on geothermal energy networks; engaging with clients to demonstrate IFC’s value-add; developing innovative financial structures; participating in negotiation and documentation teams; performing credit risk assessments and compliance reviews; collecting insights and lessons learned to inform strategy development; collaborating with IBRD colleagues and other IFIs; providing strategic input into upstream initiatives; coordinating with global colleagues to add value to client businesses; mentoring junior team members; and managing client relationships effectively.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in Business, Finance, or Economics, along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering, preferably in energy. A minimum of eight years of relevant experience in infrastructure, particularly in utility-scale distribution networks for heating or cooling, is required. Candidates should have a strong understanding of infrastructure sectors, including power, utilities/networks, and natural resources. A proven track record of implementing scalable projects involving shallow geothermal energy networks is essential. The ability to interact independently with senior management of potential clients and government officials is crucial, as is a genuine commitment to the development goals of the World Bank Group and IFC. Candidates should demonstrate strong business development skills, sound business judgment, and excellent interpersonal skills.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include a Master's degree in Business, Finance, or Economics, complemented by a Bachelor's degree in engineering, preferably with a focus on energy. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate possesses the necessary analytical and technical skills to navigate the complexities of investment in infrastructure projects.

Experience:
The position requires at least eight years of relevant experience in the infrastructure sector, specifically in utility-scale distribution networks for heating or cooling. Candidates should have a strong background in financial solutions related to infrastructure and a proven ability to implement scalable projects involving geothermal energy networks. Experience in interacting with senior management and government officials is also essential, as the role involves significant stakeholder engagement.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization. Additionally, proficiency in other languages such as Russian, Arabic, or Turkish is considered a valuable asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders across the MCT region.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an international recruitment opportunity with a term duration of three years. The role is full-time and offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical, life, and disability insurance, as well as paid leave, including parental leave. The World Bank Group is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates regardless of gender, identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.