Investment Specialist, IPSA-11, Suva, Fiji (UNCDF) - [Open to internal and external applicants]
Organizational Context
The United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) assists developing countries, particularly LDCs, by supplementing capital assistance through grants, loans, and guarantees. UNCDF aims to mobilize and catalyze capital for SDG impactful investments, focusing on last-mile and underserved markets. This role is based in Suva, Fiji, with a special emphasis on supporting investments in the Pacific region, addressing its unique structural constraints.
Job Purpose
The Investment Specialist will deploy expertise in investment and blended finance to support the origination, structuring, execution, and management of UNCDF’s investment portfolio in last-mile and underserved markets, with a particular focus on the Pacific region. This role is crucial for building a robust, high-impact investment pipeline by leveraging UNCDF’s financial instruments and partnerships. The specialist will contribute to developing local financial systems, mobilizing capital from public and private sources, and addressing structural constraints in fragile, small-scale, and climate-vulnerable markets, thereby advancing sustainable economic growth and equitable prosperity in line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Responsibilities
The Investment Specialist will identify and develop investment opportunities in the Pacific region, focusing on sectors like climate finance, MSME finance, digital finance, and resilient infrastructure, while building and maintaining a diversified investment pipeline. They will lead the structuring, due diligence, and execution of investments using UNCDF’s blended finance instruments, conducting thorough financial analysis, credit risk assessment, and impact evaluations. The role involves managing an active investment portfolio, monitoring performance, identifying risks, and recommending remedial actions. Additionally, the specialist will contribute to strengthening investment ecosystems by supporting local financial intermediaries and policymakers, facilitating access to follow-on financing, and identifying systemic market constraints. Knowledge sharing, capacity building, and advocacy for best practices are also key responsibilities.
Work Experience
A minimum of 7 years of relevant professional experience (with a Master's degree) or 9 years (with a Bachelor's degree) in investment, development finance, or blended finance is required. This includes demonstrated experience in emerging or frontier markets, with at least 3-5 years working in the Pacific region or comparable Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
Skills
System Thinking, Strategic Thinking, Partnerships Management, Risk Management, Development Finance Expertise, Financial Analysis, Due Diligence Management, Investment Origination, Transaction Structuring, Portfolio Management, Blended Finance Instruments, Financial Analysis, Credit Assessment, Impact Assessment.