The International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group (WBG), is seeking an experienced professional to join its Transaction Advisory Services Department (CTA) as an Investment Officer for Public Private Partnership (PPP) Transaction Advisory. This role is based in Nairobi, Kenya, and will primarily support the Eastern Africa hub covering nine countries: Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia.
The World Bank Group provides a global platform for advancing sustainable development by leveraging expertise, financial resources, and partnerships to address pressing global challenges. As one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, the WBG operates in over 120 offices worldwide and collaborates closely with public and private sector stakeholders to reduce poverty, promote shared prosperity, and build a livable planet.
The IFC, specifically, is the world’s largest development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. It operates in more than 100 countries, deploying capital, expertise, and influence to create opportunities in developing economies. In fiscal year 2025, IFC committed $71.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing markets, underscoring its role in fostering sustainable solutions and mobilizing private capital to achieve development goals.
The Transaction Advisory Services Department plays a vital role in mobilizing private investment for development projects. Within CTA, the PPP Transaction Advisory unit supports governments and public entities in structuring long-term infrastructure partnerships with private sector participation. These projects span critical sectors such as energy, water and sanitation, solid waste management, transportation, telecommunications, social housing, healthcare, and education.
This department has mobilized billions of dollars of private investment and continues to be a key player in building markets that deliver efficient public services. Its professionals bring decades of experience in transaction structuring, project finance, and advisory services to deliver impactful solutions in partnership with governments and private investors.
The advertised position of Investment Officer offers the opportunity to contribute to strategic transactions that have long-term social and economic impact.
Job Description
The Investment Officer will report directly to the Eastern Africa Hub Leader and the Regional Manager for CTA in Africa. The role combines business development, transaction structuring, client relationship management, and execution of PPP advisory mandates. It also involves significant interaction with government officials, private sector investors, and other World Bank Group teams to ensure successful transaction outcomes.
The scope of work requires a strong blend of financial expertise, strategic thinking, stakeholder engagement, and leadership abilities. The individual will also be expected to contribute to regional strategies and knowledge-sharing initiatives, as well as mentor junior team members.
Key Responsibilities
The Investment Officer will undertake a wide range of responsibilities in both business development and transaction execution. These responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Business Development and Origination
- Develop client relationships and identify project leads in Eastern Africa, focusing on strategic infrastructure sectors.
- Conduct marketing activities across assigned countries, collaborating with World Bank Group counterparts to align with national strategies and identify new opportunities.
- Build strong relationships with WBG colleagues to overcome regulatory, legal, and political challenges that may impede private sector participation.
- Negotiate mandates with clients and oversee the preparation of commercial proposals.
- Scope potential projects to evaluate their feasibility and alignment with IFC objectives.
- Transaction Structuring and Execution
- Prepare and review internal approval documentation, ensuring compliance with IFC standards and objectives.
- Draft and supervise terms of reference for specialized consultants, overseeing their procurement and selection.
- Manage project budgets and ensure deliverables are completed on schedule and in accordance with contractual agreements.
- Lead day-to-day management of advisory mandates, coordinating both internal IFC teams and external consultants covering technical, legal, environmental, and financial aspects.
- Develop innovative and practical transaction structures to balance client objectives with long-term sustainability and bankability of projects.
- Present proposed structures to clients, secure IFC approval, and negotiate terms to advance projects toward financial close.
- Tender Process Management
- Organize and oversee tendering processes, including marketing to potential investors, participating in roadshows, and preparing requests for qualification and proposals.
- Direct the drafting of legal documentation to reflect approved structures and ensure project bankability.
- Engage with investors and government representatives during pre-bid meetings and tender processes.
- Participate in final negotiations of project agreements, navigating complex issues to achieve successful commercial closure.
- Stakeholder Coordination and Collaboration
- Coordinate with IFC experts in environmental, social, legal, and investment disciplines to deliver comprehensive advisory solutions.
- Collaborate with World Bank colleagues to integrate sector reforms and policy considerations into transaction structures.
- Build constructive relationships with senior government officials and potential investors to enhance the success of mandates.
- Leadership and Team Development
- Supervise, mentor, and motivate junior staff within the Eastern Africa hub and across the broader CTA network.
- Foster an environment of collaboration, professional growth, and knowledge-sharing within the team.
- Strategic and Knowledge Contributions
- Contribute to the development of regional strategies for PPP advisory services, with emphasis on mobilizing private capital and climate-friendly projects.
- Support corporate finance mandates including mergers and acquisitions advisory, equity mobilization, and corporate governance improvements.
- Disseminate best practices and lessons learned across CTA teams, contributing to global knowledge management initiatives.
- Participate in upstream activities that align with IFC’s long-term vision to create and expand markets.
Organizational Culture and Core Competencies
The World Bank Group emphasizes a culture built around collaboration, innovation, and accountability. Employees are expected to demonstrate key cultural attributes such as a sense of urgency, thoughtful risk-taking, and empowerment in decision-making.
Core competencies include strong analytical and conceptual skills, the ability to work effectively in diverse teams, and commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes. Professionals are encouraged to operate with integrity, uphold the organization’s ethical standards, and contribute to its mission of sustainable development.
Work Environment
The position will be based in Nairobi, Kenya, with responsibilities extending across multiple countries in Eastern Africa. The role requires frequent travel on short notice to engage with clients, stakeholders, and partners across the region. The candidate must be able to operate effectively under pressure, meet deadlines, and adapt to culturally diverse environments.
Diversity and Inclusion
The World Bank Group is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workforce. The organization does not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, or any other status. Reasonable accommodations are provided for qualified individuals with disabilities, ensuring equal access to opportunities.
Application Process
Interested candidates who meet the requirements are invited to submit their applications before the closing date of 18 September 2025 at 11:59 pm UTC.
