Principal / Chief Credit Officer

The International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, is seeking a seasoned Principal or Chief Credit Officer to join its risk management function based in Nairobi, Kenya. This is a senior leadership role within IFC's credit risk infrastructure, responsible for providing independent, objective risk assessments that safeguard the organisation's asset quality while enabling high-impact investments across emerging markets — with a particular focus on Africa.

The successful candidate will serve as a critical second line of defence throughout the entire investment lifecycle, working closely with business teams from early transaction review through post-disbursement monitoring. This role demands exceptional credit judgment, deep financial expertise, and the ability to influence senior stakeholders across a complex, globally integrated institution. You will help shape credit standards, mentor junior professionals, and ensure IFC's portfolio remains aligned with its risk appetite and development mandate.

• Provide independent, objective risk assessments for transaction approvals and portfolio monitoring in line with IFC's Credit Client Service Framework and Standard Level Agreements.
• Act as a second pair of eyes throughout the investment cycle — partnering with deal teams from early review through post-disbursement — covering transaction structure, documentation, financial performance, covenant compliance, credit ratings, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Ensure all new transactions and portfolio actions comply with IFC policies, procedures, and global best practices, supporting both financial sustainability and development impact objectives.
• Approve initial credit risk ratings and facility ratings for new transactions; conduct ongoing sample reviews of portfolio ratings to maintain accuracy and consistency.
• Maintain a sound risk-reward balance that is consistent with IFC's defined risk appetite and portfolio quality standards.
• Conduct in-country and field visits to transaction teams and clients to gain first-hand understanding of local market conditions, sector dynamics, and deal-specific risks.
• Advise the Regional Chief Risk Officer (RCRO) and VP Risk on emerging transactions or portfolio developments that could adversely affect IFC's asset quality, developmental impact, or future financial performance.
• Contribute to knowledge management and institutional capacity building through training sessions, investment FAQs, and departmental learning initiatives.
• Mentor and develop junior credit officers, fostering a culture of rigour, independence, and sound judgment.
• Participate in reviews of credit standards, pricing frameworks, deal acceptance criteria, and business process improvement initiatives; represent the department on relevant internal working groups.

• Must hold a Master's degree or equivalent professional qualification in Finance, Business, or a closely related discipline.
• Must demonstrate a minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in lending and investing at a major international financial institution, including 5–10 years in a formal credit decision-making role.
• Must be able to assess and apply risk procedures with sound judgment on a case-by-case basis across a diverse range of sectors and financial products.
• Must have hands-on experience structuring and evaluating both debt and equity transactions, including deep proficiency in financial modelling, deal documentation, and credit analysis.
• Must demonstrate a consistent track record of high-quality, independent credit decisions in complex or ambiguous environments.
• Must be able to synthesise complex financial and risk information into clear, concise written and verbal communications for diverse senior audiences.
• Must have proven ability to build cross-functional relationships, influence without direct authority, and navigate competing priorities under pressure.
• Must demonstrate capacity to resolve conflicts constructively and communicate outcomes clearly to stakeholders at all levels.
• Experience in Emerging Markets — particularly Sub-Saharan Africa — is strongly preferred.
• Equity investment experience is a distinct advantage.
• Proficiency in English is required; French or Portuguese is an added advantage given IFC's African portfolio.

The salary for this position is listed as open and will be determined based on the candidate's qualifications and experience. IFC and World Bank Group positions at this seniority level are internationally benchmarked and highly competitive. Estimated monthly compensation for a role of this calibre in Nairobi ranges from KES 600,000 to KES 1,200,000 or equivalent in USD, inclusive of applicable allowances. The World Bank Group also offers a comprehensive benefits package including international health coverage, pension contributions, paid leave, and relocation support where applicable.

Ideal Candidate: A seasoned credit risk professional with 15+ years at a multilateral development bank, international commercial bank, or development finance institution. You have a strong track record of independent credit decision-making in Africa or other emerging markets, and you are comfortable operating at the intersection of financial rigour and development impact. You are a natural mentor, a confident communicator, and a trusted adviser to senior leadership.

Do NOT apply if: You have fewer than 10 years of relevant credit risk experience, have not held a formal credit approval or decision-making role, lack experience with emerging market transactions, or are looking for an entry- to mid-level analyst position. This is a highly specialised senior role — generic banking or retail credit backgrounds will not be considered.

Interested and qualified candidates should apply through the official World Bank Group careers portal. Ensure your application includes an updated CV highlighting relevant credit risk experience, transaction history, and geographic exposure — particularly in Africa. Applications must be submitted before the closing date of 26 June 2026. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. IFC is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds.