Venture Capital Job – Investment Officer – World Bank Group

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 Disruptive Technologies and Funds Group (“CDF”) invests in private sector companies globally. IFC’s CDF has a track record of successful investments in direct venture capital across many sub-verticals, building out start-up business and co-investing alongside growth equity funds, and in venture capital funds. CDF is unique for both its regional and global prospective on the venture capital space, 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 for its portfolio companies through sustained assistance.

The Fintech Unit (“CDFFT”), part of CDF, focuses specifically on early stage and growth stage equity investments in Fintech companies. IFC views the Fintech sector as a key solution to a growing need of emerging markets to rapidly catch up with the developed world in financial services.  It expects Fintech players to catalyze transparency, safety, economic and financial inclusion and global economic integration. For the past 10 years IFC has built a respectable and diverse Fintech portfolio of about investments in excess of $300 million.

The Fintech Unit is seeking an Investment Officer with extensive fintech and market and industry experience to help grow and develop its business in South-East Asia. The successful candidate must have significant experience in equity and fintech investing, understanding trends/dynamics/players in the Fintech space, and identifying and processing appropriate investments in this space. The Investment Officer will maximize the impact of IFC’s intervention and contribute to the regional and/or sector/industry development by executing innovative, developmental, and profitable investments for IFC.  The Investment Officer will be based in South-East Asia preferably in Bangkok, Singapore, or Jakarta.

Role & Responsibilities:
•  Conduct industry and market research/mapping to identify a pipeline of good quality Fintech equity investments in South-East Asia.
•  Evaluate, structure, negotiate, and close new Fintech equity investments and follow-on financing opportunities.
•  Conduct analysis of and follow up on new business opportunities and liaise extensively with colleagues worldwide.
•  Lead and support due diligence and drafting of investment recommendation documentation for investment decisions.
•  Lead and support supervision of portfolio companies and manage internal IFC procedures including preparation of portfolio reports and related compliance related information.
•  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.
•  Work closely with the relevant IFC teams in South-East Asia and globally including CDF, IFC’s Financial Institutions Group (“FIG”) and IFC’s Asia Department.
•  Coordinate closely with IFC’s business risk functions to ensure maintenance of the highest corporate governance, environmental and social, and integrity standards.

Selection Criteria

•  At least 7-8 years of work experience in venture capital or private equity with a focus on the Fintech sector. Experience in supporting senior partners and portfolio CEOs/Founders in investment origination & execution and portfolio management including facilitation of exits will be viewed positively. Prior experience in a start-up, or investment banking or business/corporate development will be considered.
•  Work experience in South-East Asia is required.
•  A Master or an MBA is required, preferably from a leading international institution.
•  An understanding of the drivers of the financial sector and how Fintechs act as disrupters or supporters in this space.
•  Proven analytical, financial analysis, equity valuation, and financial modeling skills to analyze and form conclusions on company financial information or projects and industry indicators.  Strong credit skills and excellent business judgment.
•  Proven track record in nurturing client relationships; business development and portfolio supervision. Strong 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.
•  Team player with strong interpersonal skills, and ability to work successfully with clients and colleagues from various cultural backgrounds.
•  Excellent communication and presentation skills.
•  Excellent oral and written presentation skills in English are required; additional Asian language desirable. (Chinese, Japanese).

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.