Investment Officer- Panama City, Panama

Job #:	112612
Title:	Investment Officer
Job Stream:	Financial Sector
Location:	Panama City, Panama
Closing Date:	05/17/2014
Background / General description:
The International Finance Corporation (IFC), the private sector arm of the World Bank Group, is a global investor and advisor committed to promoting projects in its developing member countries that are economically beneficial, financially and commercially sound, and environmentally and socially sustainable. IFC finances private sector investments, mobilizes capital in the international financial markets, helps clients improve social and environmental sustainability, and provides technical assistance and advice to governments and businesses in the developing world. IOs work directly with our clients and supporting of local sponsors. IFC is recruiting an Investment Officer to identify business opportunities, execute transactions and manage portfolio projects. The main initial focus of the selected candidate will be investment origination in Costa Rica and Panama. The overall goal of the job holder is to maximize the impact of IFC’s intervention and to contribute to the regional and/or sector/industry development in our countries of operation by executing innovative, developmental, and profitable investments for IFC.
Duties and Accountabilities:
Specific responsibilities include, but are not limited to: • Develop a strong pipeline of new quality investment opportunities. • Develop innovative and appropriate financial structures for straightforward transactions • Participate in deal structuring and negotiation skills to overcome impasses and finalize negotiations in straightforward transactions. • Works with senior staff to develop a strong pipeline of good quality investment opportunities. • Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, global and regional private businesses, banking and multilateral partners and government officials to further develop the sector and to develop specific investment opportunities.  • Coordinate closely with social, environmental, and technical assistance colleagues in order to add value to our clients' businesses, find pragmatic solutions to the specific sector challenges, and achieve sustainable development impact. • Identify and evaluate opportunities to increase the social development impact of new or portfolio projects.
Selection Criteria:
• MBA or equivalent qualification • At least 4-8 years experience in finance with a proven track-record of sourcing, structuring and closing investments preferably with investment banks or private equity funds. • Knowledge of relevant industry sector trends, experience in emerging markets a plus • Strong financial and credit skills; demonstrated ability to structure a variety of financial instruments (debt and equity) • Business development and client relationship skills, track record and ability to focus on clients needs effectively • Ability to interact directly and independently with the senior management of potential clients, of financial and technical partners as well as senior government officials • Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English and Spanish • Strong inter-personal skills and readiness for effective teamwork. • Ability to mentor junior investment staff • Highly motivated, committed to highest ethical standards • Genuine commitment to sustainable development  • Willingness to travel extensively and geographic flexibility (openness to re-locate to one of IFCs regional hubs) The position is part of the Central America team within the LAC. Details (vacancy # 112612) are available in the World Bank Careers website: www.ifc.org, click on ‘Careers’ and then on ‘Current opportunities. Applications should be sent in English. All applications must be submitted through this website. The World Bank Group is committed to achieving diversity in terms of gender, nationality, culture and educational background. Individuals with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply.  Applications without a cover letter will not be considered. Cover letter should clearly describe the relevant results the candidate has delivered in prior positions, rather than simply listing responsibilities. All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. The contract for this position has an initial duration of 2 years (renewable), with a one-year probation period and subject to be renewed. This is local hire (paid in local currency). The appointee will be stationed in Panama city, Panama. Closing date is [January 15, 2012].