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 through the private sector, IFC operates in over 100 countries, leveraging its capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing nations. In the fiscal year 2024, IFC committed a record $56 billion in investments, including over $22 billion mobilized from partners, aimed at supporting private companies and financial institutions in developing countries. The organization is dedicated to ending extreme poverty and boosting shared prosperity, particularly as economies face the challenges posed by global crises. IFC emphasizes the importance of private sector financial development in fostering successful and sustainable economies, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where efficient financial markets can allocate resources productively, create jobs, and spur economic growth. The Financial Institutions Group (FIG) is one of IFC's three major industry groups, managing approximately 40% of IFC's overall business in terms of volume and capital at risk, and engaging in various sub-sectors such as Microfinance, SME, Gender, Climate, Insurance, Capital Markets, Housing, and Distressed Assets, providing both investment and advisory services globally to its clients.

Job Overview:
The Investment Officer (IO) position is part of the FIG’s Middle East, Central Asia, Turkey, Afghanistan, and Pakistan (MCT) Regional Industry Team, based in Amman, Jordan. The IO will play a crucial role in the investment team, focusing on identifying and executing new investment transactions in fragile and conflicted situation (FCS) markets, specifically Iraq, Lebanon, and Syria. The role requires the IO to support portfolio supervision and report directly to the IFC FIG Senior Investment Officer/Regional Business Lead for the Levant sub-region. The IO will be responsible for promoting, originating, and leading the execution of FIG sector investment projects in these FCS markets, which involves coordinating with various stakeholders, overseeing technical and strategic aspects of investment projects, and ensuring efficient processing for project closure. The IO will also be expected to build and maintain strong relationships with clients, regulators, and private businesses to further develop the sector and identify specific investment opportunities. Additionally, the IO will lead portfolio supervision across different asset classes and utilize financial competencies to negotiate successful outcomes, while also supporting the development and implementation of FIG MCT strategy in FCS markets.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Investment Officer will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: promoting, originating, and leading the execution of FIG sector investment projects in Iraq, Lebanon, and Syria; coordinating with internal and external stakeholders to ensure project success; building and maintaining relationships with clients, regulators, and private businesses; leading portfolio supervision of multiple projects across various asset classes; utilizing financial skills to negotiate successful outcomes; identifying innovative financial structures for clients; developing a strong pipeline of investment opportunities; monitoring financial markets and macroeconomic developments in the region; coordinating with support departments to address investment challenges; evaluating opportunities to enhance social development impact; and mentoring junior team members.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an MBA or equivalent master's degree in finance or management, along with a minimum of 8 to 10 years of relevant experience in finance, investment, or banking. A demonstrated track record in sourcing, structuring, and closing investment transactions is essential, with preference given to those with 10 or more years of experience. Experience working in FCS markets is highly desirable. Candidates should have strong financial and credit skills, the ability to structure various financial instruments, and a solid understanding of the financial industry, including trends and challenges in Middle Eastern countries. Proven business development and client relationship skills, along with the ability to interact with management teams and government officials, are also required. Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English and Arabic, strong interpersonal skills, and a commitment to sustainable development and ethical standards are essential attributes for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Investment Officer position includes an MBA or other equivalent master's degree in finance or management. This advanced education is crucial for understanding complex financial concepts and investment strategies necessary for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically a minimum of 8 to 10 years in relevant fields such as finance, investment, or banking. Candidates should have a proven track record in sourcing, structuring, and closing investment transactions, with a preference for those who have over 10 years of experience. Experience in FCS markets is particularly valuable, as it demonstrates familiarity with the unique challenges and opportunities present in these regions.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, with excellent verbal and written communication skills required. Proficiency in Arabic is preferred, as it will facilitate better communication and relationship-building in the Middle Eastern context. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
The Investment Officer position is a full-time role with a contract duration of three years. It involves international recruitment, indicating that candidates from various countries may apply. The role may require extensive travel within the region, particularly to the FCS markets of Iraq, Lebanon, and Syria. The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates regardless of gender, identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.