Principal Investment Officer - Global Energy

Description

Build a career with impact. Working at the World Bank Group (WBG) provides a unique opportunity to help countries solve their greatest development challenges. As one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, the WBG is a unique partnership of five global institutions dedicated to ending poverty, increasing shared prosperity, and promoting sustainable development. With 189 member countries and more than 120 offices worldwide, the WBG works with public and private sector partners, investing in groundbreaking projects and using data, research, and technology to develop solutions to the most urgent global challenges.

The International Finance Corporation (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 2025, IFC committed a record $71.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging private sector solutions, and mobilizing private capital to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. For more information, visit: https://www.ifc.org

The Global Energy (CEMEN) team is part of the Global Energy and Mining Department (CEM) at IFC. Our unit in collaboration with the regional industry groups, is responsible for IFC's energy business, including power generation, transmission, distribution and innovative clean energy technologies. Our team is united by core values of Impact, Integrity, Respect, Teamwork, and Innovation. Together, we tackle the world’s toughest challenges, and advance social and economic inclusion

CEMEN is looking to recruit a Principal Investment Officer (PIO) to lead on CEMEM priorities related to sector strategy and expertise, knowledge creation and sharing, innovation, deal structuring guidance, and global client relationship and business development. 

Role Responsibilities:

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: 
•   Be the lead for a series of energy sectors including midstream/downstream natural gas and potentially others (e.g., solar, wind, etc.). The PIO will be the focal investment specialist supporting investment teams and management globally in business development, project structuring and execution as well as the approval process for such energy sectors of specialization;
•   Develop IFC value proposition and lead global business strategy development and implementation in energy sectors of specialization;
•   Support client relationship management for select global energy clients; 
•   Lead knowledge management and contribute to knowledge sharing and dissemination across IFC’s regional sector groups, with an emphasis on knowledge to support business development, market creation, innovation and risk management;
•   Work closely with senior management, other WBG units, and external stakeholders on energy sector strategy, and implementation plan;
•   Actively monitor industry and market trends, participate in industry events and build sector relationships globally;
•   Lead World Bank Group initiatives and IFC participation in events related to the energy sector (conferences, annual meetings, etc.);
•   Mentor and coach more junior staff, help build talent and grow skill base of staff.

Selection Criteria

•   Master's degree in finance, economics or similar relevant education;
•   12+ years of relevant experience
•   Significant investment and sector experience in energy, with sector specialization and expertise in midstream/downstream gas;
•   Proven ability to develop and implement power sector business strategies and knowledge management globally;
•   Strong track record in project development, origination, structuring, and portfolio management of power sector transactions in developing countries;
•   Familiarity with multiple financial products ranging from project finance to quasi-equity and straight equity; 
•   Demonstrated ability to innovate and create new opportunities across sub-sectors and financing products;  
•   Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with clients, government authorities, industry groups and experts; 
•   Strong analytical and problem-solving skills and sound business judgment to identify issues and present creative and practical solutions; 
•   Proven leadership capabilities and ability to take initiatives and drive change; 
•   Capacity to deal with conflicting priorities and deliver high quality work on schedule; ability to work successfully in multicultural teams and across boundaries; 
•   Highly motivated and proactive, committed to highest ethical standards;
•   Interest in the World Bank Group and IFC’s mission, strategy and values;
•   Fluent in English; other languages are a plus. 

WBG Culture Attributes:

1. Sense of urgency: Anticipate and quickly respond to the needs of internal and external stakeholders.
2. Thoughtful risk-taking: Challenge the status quo and push boundaries to achieve greater impact.
3. Empowerment and accountability: Empower yourself and others to act and hold each other accountable for results.

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.