Investment Specialist, IPSA 11, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea [open To Internal And External Applicants]

Organizational Context

The United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) assists developing countries, particularly LDCs, by supplementing capital assistance with grants, loans, and guarantees to foster economic development. UNCDF's vision is to mobilize capital for SDG-impactful investments, addressing critical challenges for vulnerable communities and promoting sustainable growth. This role is within UNCDF's Investment and Implementation Division, focusing on advancing its blended finance portfolio in Papua New Guinea.

Job Purpose

The Investment Specialist will advance UNCDF's blended finance portfolio in Papua New Guinea, focusing on areas such as rural development, enterprise financing, blue economy growth, and conflict-resilient livelihoods. This role involves identifying and structuring investment opportunities, mobilizing private capital, and providing technical assistance to enterprises and financial institutions. The specialist will contribute to UNCDF's mandate of catalyzing capital flows for SDG-impactful investments, supporting local economic development, and enhancing financial inclusion in alignment with the 2030 Agenda and the Doha Programme of Action. The position supports key UNCDF programs like EU STREIT, Sustainable Pacific Blue Circle Fund, Good Oceans, Good Business, and LEED, aiming to scale development impact through innovative financial solutions.

Responsibilities

The Investment Specialist will lead strategic research and market analysis to identify investment opportunities and inform strategy, advising on blended finance solutions and mapping the financing landscape. Responsibilities include designing projects and financial mechanisms, drafting investment strategies, and supporting fundraising efforts by engaging with potential co-investors and partners. The role involves executing investment transactions, including screening opportunities, conducting due diligence, analyzing financial statements, building financial models, and assessing credit risk. Additionally, the specialist will provide technical assistance and facilitate capacity building for investees and local financial institutions, and contribute to the project management of investment-linked initiatives, including reporting and monitoring.

Work Experience

A minimum of 7 years of relevant work experience (with a Master's degree) or 9 years (with a Bachelor's degree) is required, preferably in the financial or private sector with investment and business management expertise. At least 5 years of investment experience and knowledge of financial markets, financial institutions' needs, and credit instruments for the blue economy are necessary. Experience in development finance institutions, impact investors, project finance, or SME financing is highly desirable.

Skills

Strategic Thinking, Knowledge Generation, Clear Communication, Data Analysis, Development Finance Expertise, Due Diligence Management, Private Sector Engagement, Financial Modeling, Market Scoping, Investment Structuring, Risk Assessment, Technical Assistance Delivery, Capacity Building.

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