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 2022, IFC committed a record $32.8 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's Telecom, Media, Technology (TMT) Group, part of the Infrastructure Department, invests in private sector companies in emerging markets globally and has a track record of successful investments in mobile network operators, broadband networks, independent tower companies, submarine cables, data centers, media, and next generation digital infrastructure. It also supports an IFC wide effort to support the development of creative industries, including film, digital design, and music. IFC is unique for both its regional and global prospective, development focus, long-term approach to investments, ability to leverage the resources of the entire World Bank Group, as well as its commitment to maximizing the value of its portfolio companies through sustained assistance. The Global TMT group works with private sector TMT companies to expand access to digital infrastructure and technology throughout emerging markets with a wide range of investment products from project finance, corporate loans, and bonds on the debt side to equity and quasi-equity in private or listed companies.

To grow this business, the Global TMT group is looking for a Principal Investment Officer with solid sector and investment expertise that can help deepen the scope, reach and impact of IFC’s investments in the TMT and creative sectors. The position will report to the Global TMT Manager and work with external clients and partners and World Bank Group teams across regions and disciplines to develop, execute, and manage TMT and creative sector investments. Role will be based in Washington, DC and field locations mentioned outside Washington DC can be considered with prior regional management approval.

• Provide thought leadership on sector trends, implications for IFC’s business in the sector to both grow and future proof IFC’s business in the sector and be an integral part of driving a sustainable growth of TMT’s business.
• Drive IFC's investments in the TMT and creative sectors globally and across the capital structure (equity, mezzanine, or senior debt).
• Build a strong pipeline of potential investment opportunities in cooperation with regional IFC teams.
• Originate, execute, and supervise as needs arise viable investment transactions which maximize development impact as well as profitability.
• Lead and/or provide guidance to teams on due diligence (financial, market, valuation etc.), risk/mitigation analysis, and structuring/ negotiations from a TMT sector perspective.
• Analyze industry trends and prior transactions to develop new business and improve portfolio performance; disseminate knowledge across the industry group.
• Develop and implement innovative and appropriate financial structures for complex transactions.
• Lead project teams, mentor and develop junior staff.
• Develop and drive global client relationships.
• Coordinate closely with technical experts (engineers, environmental specialists, lawyers, etc.) to add value to our clients' businesses, find pragmatic solutions, and achieve sustainable development impact.
• Drive IFC’s work in sub-sectors and/or cross-cutting initiatives representing the sector group as needs arise including being the primary contact point with regional and functional departments.
• Drive collaboration with regional departments and work closely with regional teams to deliver IFC's investment targets and development impact.
• Collaborate in developing strategies for various sub-sectors, countries, and cross-cutting initiatives.
• Gather market intelligence and stay informed of TMT trends in various sub-sectors and countries.
• Identify business models and opportunities for new approaches that can accelerate private sector participation and development impact.
• Maintain relationships with clients and other stakeholders (government, development partners, WBG) to develop markets and investment opportunities.
• Help to build and maintain a network of global and regional co-investors and co-lenders to develop specific investment opportunities and to provide funding alongside IFC.
• Support the World Bank Group’s initiatives targeting increased internet access in under-served regions across emerging markets.
• Supervision and coaching of more junior staff as applicable.

Selection Criteria

• At least 12 years of investment experience (e.g., commercial or investment banking, private equity or funds).
• MBA or equivalent qualification.
• Investment experience in the TMT and creative sectors, particularly in emerging markets and solid understanding of sector trends and issues.
• Proven track record in in the design, implementation, and successful closing of transactions.
• Established network with operators, investors, and other industry players.
• Genuine and strong interest in and commitment to international development.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both in written and oral; ability to convey ideas and positions clearly; strong presentation skills.
• Communication skills in French or Spanish are desirable.
• Sound business judgment in screening/identifying potential investment opportunities and making go/no-go recommendations.
• Strong structuring and technical skills with a variety of complex financial structures and instruments for both debt and equity.
• Effective teamwork in multi-cultural and multi-location environment and ability/experience with providing guidance, supervision, professional development and quality control of work products and analyses of more junior team members.
• Ability to interact directly and independently with senior management of (potential) clients, partners, and senior government officials.
• Capacity to identify and successfully develop market creation opportunities in multiple countries by demonstrating long-term perspective, open-mindedness, persistence, innovation, and ability to leverage all instruments and programs available at the World Bank Group.
• International exposure, especially to the emerging markets, cultural sensitivity, and willingness to travel extensively.

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.