Principal I, Impact (SSA)

As this role involves collaboration with international teams, we kindly ask that you submit your resume in English.

Purpose of Job

The Principal I for Impact Methodology Sub Saharan Africa (SSA) is part of the Impact department and plays a core role in implementing the Bank’s mandate to promote transition in the EBRD’s countries of operations (COOs) especially in SSA. Working in close cooperation with the Banking department and other Bank groups (Credit, ESD, OGC, country and sector specialist in CSD and PSD) the post holder implements the Bank’s transition impact architecture. In coordination with other colleagues in the Impact department, the post holder assists in running an integrated system of ex-ante assessment, monitoring, self-evaluation and knowledge management to maximise the impact of the Bank’s activities and ensure a compelling and credible communication of that impact.

The Principal I plays a significant contribution to support: development of robust impact management systems and processes: project and sector ex-ante impact assessment and ex-post monitoring; analysis and evaluation of impact and performance for internal and external reporting of transition impact of EBRD activities; and, development of knowledge management products and services to facilitate knowledge collection, sharing, and learning.

Background

The Impact & Partnerships department is established within the Vice Presidency for Policy & Partnerships.  The Impact unit consists of a team of 30-35 Economists and Analysts delivering four key functions within the Bank:

• the design and implementation of the Bank's transition results architecture;
• definition, identification and communication of the Bank's results more broadly, encompassing both the Bank's transition impact, as well as its contribution towards the Sustainable Development Goals and the global development agenda;
• establishing and implementing a thematic Impact Assessment and Foresight function that supports the Bank's teams in rigorously evaluating their activities; and
• implementing a knowledge management system.
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Accountabilities & Responsibilities

• In coordination with other colleagues in the Impact department, assists in designing and running an integrated system of ex-ante assessment, monitoring, self-evaluation and knowledge management to maximise the impact of the Bank’s activities and ensure a compelling and credible communication of that impact.
• With a specific focus on SSA, responsible for specific workstreams in the enhancement and maintenance of the Bank’s transition impact methodology, including country gaps (ATQs) and in addition additionality principles.  They will coordinate inputs with sector economists and collaborate with colleagues in Impact, OCE, IT, Banking, and other relevant units;
• Ensures effective application of the transition impact methodology in the appraisal of investment projects and TCs especially in the SSA region, supporting consistent use of IT systems and contributing to embedding results-focused approaches in country, sector, and thematic strategies;
• With a specific focus on SSA, provides expert support to sector impact teams on transition impact ratings, monitoring indicators and additionality assessments: contributing to the delivery of the weekly project review process: and, occasional analysis of cross-cutting impact areas such as green transition, inclusion, economic governance and effectiveness of blended finance;
• Provides support to Impact colleagues working as a counterpart to IT and Data Management teams, by contributing to the design, testing, and improvement of systems, tools, and processes that support application of the transition impact methodology in SSA;
• Develops guidance notes and technical materials on transition impact and additionality, especially in relation to SSA countries, and contributes to delivery of training and knowledge-sharing activities across the Bank.
• Provides support to the Associate Director(s), Impact Methodology and Blended Finance on relevant sector and cross-cutting issues, like the development of the transition impact methodology, project impact assessment and monitoring of projects, background research, drafting of briefings, presentations, and short impact related analyses and knowledge management solutions towards better communication on the EBRD impact and contribution to the global development agenda;
• On occasion represents the Bank at sector/impact level and contributes technical input to relevant fora (conferences, dialogues with IFI counterparts, think tanks, etc.) to develop and spread best practices;
• May be directly accountable for the engagement and effective overall management of staff including recruitment, compensation (as agreed with the Head of Department, if applicable), performance management, coaching and development;
• Champion and role model the Bank’s Behavioural Competencies and Corporate Behaviours, ensuring adherence within the team(s) so that the highest standards of integrity and ethical conduct are exhibited at all times.

Knowledge, Skills, Experience & Qualifications

• A postgraduate degree in economics or related field from a leading university; a PhD in economics or closely related discipline is an advantage;
• Proven experience in rigorous project design and appraisal, in impact management leading and preparing impact assessment/evaluations, including excellent knowledge of recent methods and tools, and in communicating this analysis to non-subject matter expert decision makers at a senior level;
• Sound understanding of EBRD mandate, strategic objectives, investment and TC operations and knowledge of the Bank’s transition impact methodology;
• Proven analytical and quantitative skills;
• Strong interpersonal skills;
• An ability to understand credit analysis of investment projects;
• Ability to operate in a multicultural environment and build effective working relationships with internal/external clients and colleagues;
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English at the standard required for a professional publication, official documents and official representation;
• Familiarity with the EBRD’s SSA region of operations and work or study experience in the SSA region is an advantage;
• Knowledge of one or more languages of the region is an advantage.

What is it like to work at the EBRD? / About EBRD 

Our agile and innovative approach is what makes life at the EBRD a unique experience! You will be part of a pioneering and diverse international organisation, and use your talents to make a real difference to people's lives and help shape the future of the regions we invest in.  

At EBRD, our Values – Inclusiveness, Innovation, Trust, and Responsibility – are at the heart of how we work. We bring these to life through our Workplace Behaviours: listening well and speaking up, collaborating smartly, acting decisively with full commitment, and simplifying to amplify our impact. These principles shape our culture and define our success. We seek individuals who not only share these values but are also committed to embedding them in their daily work, fostering a positive and high-performing environment. 

The EBRD environment provides you with: 

• Varied, stimulating and engaging work that gives you an opportunity to interact with a wide range of experts in the financial, political, public and private sectors across the regions we invest in. 
• A working culture that embraces inclusion and celebrates diversity. Our workforce reflects a broad range of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, bringing fresh ideas, energy, and innovation and enhancing our ability to serve our clients, shareholders, and counterparties effectively.
• A hybrid workplace that offers flexibility to teams and individuals; that is based on trust, flexibility and connectedness. 
• An environment that places sustainability, equality and digital transformation at the heart of what we do. 
• A workplace that prioritises employee wellbeing and provides a comprehensive suite of competitive benefits. 

Diversity is one of the Bank’s core values which are at the heart of everything it does.  As such, the EBRD seeks to ensure that everyone is treated with respect and given equal opportunities and works in an inclusive environment. The EBRD encourages all qualified candidates who are nationals of the EBRD member countries to apply regardless of their racial, ethnic, religious and cultural background, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, socio-economic background or disability.   

Please note, that due to the high volume of applications received, we regret to inform you that we are unable to provide detailed feedback to candidates who have not been shortlisted (for further consideration).