World Bank Hiring Principal Investment Officer

Principal Investment Officer

 Description

IFC — a member of the World Bank Group — is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets.

We work in more than 100 countries, using our capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries. In fiscal year 2023, IFC committed a record US$43.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging the power of the private sector to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity as economies grapple with the impacts of global compounding crises. For more information, visit www.ifc.org.

IFC sees private equity (PE) funds as making a valuable contribution to development by providing capital and know-how to fast growing companies that are leading drivers of job creation. IFC is the largest investor in emerging market PE funds, with more than US$7 billion committed across a portfolio of over 350 funds.

IFC’s PE funds strategy focuses on supporting: (i) growth equity funds, (ii) venture capital funds, (iii) small business funds in low income countries, and (iv) selectively in sector funds. In turn, these PE funds combine capital and expertise to enable investee companies to achieve the operational efficiency and governance standards required to realize their high-growth potential.

IFC is seeking a Principal Investment Officer to provide coverage for IFC’s PE funds program in Africa, within IFC’s Disruptive Technologies and Funds Department (CDF). In addition to leading investment activities in PE funds across Africa, the role will include developing relevant corporate initiatives, partnerships, and engagement to enhance IFC’s strategic positioning in the region, and working closely with the World Bank Group on building relevant ecosystems.

S/he will be based in Nairobi, Kenya and will report to the Global Head, Private Equity Funds (CDFPE) and the Global Portfolio Manager, Private Equity Funds (CDFPE).

Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Lead business development, due diligence, negotiation, and transaction structuring of new business opportunities and liaise extensively with colleagues across the region and industry verticals;

• Establish, build, and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders in Africa’s PE funds including fund managers, commercial and impact investors, and development partners;

• Develop and make strategic PE funds investments and co-investments, based on rigorous market mapping, review of forward calendar, and due diligence of the funds selected for investment;

• Manage the portfolio of PE funds and co-investments in Africa; helping fund managers and investees leverage on the resources and expertise of IFC and the broader World Bank Group. Portfolio responsibilities would include representing IFC on LPACs of funds;

• Take responsibility for ongoing coverage and proactive follow-ups on compliance matters, valuations, development impact reporting, Environmental, Social and Governance and other ad-hoc operational needs for the Africa PE funds portfolio;

• S/he will also help drive value creation; including building strong relationships across IFC’s industry departments in Africa to help facilitate such value creation;

• Support the identification of and develop of upstream and market creation initiatives to foster relevant ecosystem building in alignment with country and sector strategies; and

• Represent CDF in internal and external events, support relevant corporate initiatives, partnerships and engagement on PE funds and related businesses to enhance IFC’s strategic positioning.

• Selection Criteria• At least 12-15 years of work experience of which at least 5-8 years of PE funds experience, ideally with emerging markets transaction experience;
• • Deep understanding of the PE funds market and ability to link policy and advisory interventions, investment, and mobilization to deliver solutions at a regional level. Experience in lead negotiating and structuring private equity fund investments;
• • Experience in portfolio management, including prior experience as an LPAC member;
• • Genuine commitment to development and to the mission, strategy, and values of IFC and World Bank Group;
• • Track record of engaging with private sector clients, local and national governments, and other stakeholders to encourage pioneering business and market development
• ;• Outstanding analytical and critical thinking skills; demonstrated ability to synthetize complex information and make actionable recommendations;
• • Sensitivity for working in multicultural environment, commitment to diversity, and ability to build effective working relationships with colleagues / clients / partners across regions, sectors, and business lines;• Ability to lead by example to build credibility and trust to encourage subordinates to excel and form high performance teams;
• • Advanced degree required, MBA from leading international institutions preferred; and
• • Strong communications skills. Written competency and spoken language fluency in English.

World Bank Group Core Competencies

The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan; medical, life and disability insurance; and paid leave, including parental leave, as well as reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.

We are proud to be an equal opportunity and inclusive employer with a dedicated and committed workforce, and do not discriminate based on gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.

Learn more about working at the World Bank and IFC, including our values and inspiring stories.

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