The Investment Specialist will be responsible for overseeing the development, management, and optimization of SDRB’s portfolio of investments and projects, ensuring alignment with the bank’s strategic plan.

Duty Station: SDRB Main Office
Expected starting date: January/February, 2025
Status: Permanent
Appointment Type: Full-time
Reports to: Senior Management

ABOUT SDRB
The Somali Development and Reconstruction Bank (SDRB) has a legacy dating back to its establishment in 1968. SDRB was instrumental in Somalia’s economic development through medium and long-term financing for private sector growth. After a period of inactivity due to civil conflict, the bank was reconstituted in 2012 and began a transformative journey in 2024 under new leadership.

The Somali Development and Reconstruction Bank (SDRB) is dedicated to promoting socio-economic growth in Somalia through innovative financial products, investment facilitation, and support for sustainable development initiatives. To further enhance financial services that aid in the country’s economic recovery, SDRB is looking for a dynamic and experienced Investment Specialist. This role will focus on key areas, including investment analysis and management, project financing and management, as well as monitoring, evaluation, and reporting.

ROLE
The Investment Specialist will be responsible for overseeing the development, management, and optimization of SDRB’s portfolio of investments and projects, ensuring alignment with the bank’s strategic plan. This role will focus on critical areas such as investment analysis and management, project financing, and management, along with monitoring, evaluation, and reporting of project outcomes. The specialist will conduct thorough analyses to identify viable investment opportunities and assess their potential returns and risks, while also structuring and financing projects for effective lifecycle management.

Implementing robust monitoring and evaluation frameworks will be essential to track performance and provide regular updates to stakeholders. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in investments, project finance, and banking within Somalia, with a deep understanding of local market dynamics and challenges. Strong analytical skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders are crucial for success. Additionally, the Investment Specialist will play a vital role in building relationships with local businesses and international partners, contributing to SDRB’s mission of enhancing economic development in Somalia.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assess and structure investment opportunities across key sectors, including infrastructure, agriculture, manufacturing, and SMEs, ensuring alignment with SDRB’s strategic priorities.
• Manage the full investment and project life cycle: initial investment appraisal to implementation, monitoring, evaluation and reporting.
• Develop and manage financial models, budgets, and timelines for investment and projects, ensuring that they meet financial and operational targets.
• Work with senior management to develop and execute SDRB’s investment strategy, identifying and prioritizing key areas for growth.
• Regularly assess the performance of SDRB’s investment portfolio, providing recommendations to improve returns, reduce risks, and enhance the portfolio’s diversification.
• Design and implement the periodic Portfolio Review, evaluating performance against market benchmarks and investment objectives.
• Assess portfolio asset allocation and market value, recommending adjustments where necessary to optimize risk-return outcomes.
• Lead discussions at both the management and executive levels to review and revise SDRB’s financial goals, ensuring the portfolio continues to align with organizational objectives.
• Continuously monitor the performance of portfolio investments, identifying underperforming assets or emerging risks.
• Ensure the bank’s portfolio continues to meet its risk tolerance and financial objectives, with regular updates to the senior management team.
• Regularly assess the market value of SDRB’s investments and provide strategic advice on the investment and projects.
• Work closely with the risk management team to identify and mitigate risks across SDRB’s portfolio.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders
• Identify financing needs and develop Islamic banking products tailored to the market needs in different sectors and its value chains.
• Collaborate with the risk and compliance teams to ensure that all investments comply with local and international regulatory standards.
• Ensure that all project financing and investments are compliant with Somali financial regulations, international best practices, and SDRB’s internal policies.
• Propose and design new Islamic financial instruments and products aimed at supporting the private sector development in Somalia.
• Stay informed of trends and innovations in project finance, banking, and financial technology, integrating best practices and innovations into SDRB’s offerings.
• Participate in high-level strategic planning and decision-making, offering financial insights and recommendations on key investments, projects, and partnerships.
• Perform all other tasks and duties as may be assigned to you by Management

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS REQUIRED:
Master’s degree from a reputable University is required in one of the following areas: Banking, Finance, Economics or similar. In addition to a master’s degree, relevant professional certifications are highly advantageous, e.g., Islamic Banking and finance, project management, or investment management.

EXPERIENCE
At least 5 years of professional and verifiable experience in banking, project finance, investment management, or related fields. Additionally, strong understanding of the Somali banking landscape, including regulatory frameworks, challenges, and opportunities. Proven experience working with SMEs, and other development stakeholders in Somalia. Demonstrated track record of managing and optimizing investment portfolios, conducting performance reviews, and making strategic recommendations.

LANGUAGE:

• English (Fluent)
• Somali

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
As the role involves lots of technical analysis and report writing, advanced writing and analytical skills in both Somali and English are critical. In-depth knowledge of project finance, investment strategies, and portfolio management. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and financial modeling skills. Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with stakeholders at all levels.

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Leadership: Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across departments and with external stakeholders.
• Analytical Thinking: Ability to assess complex financial data, identify trends, and develop actionable insights.
• Risk Management: Expertise in identifying, assessing, and mitigating financial and operational risks.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Strong networking and relationship-building skills, particularly with MFIs, SMEs, and development partners.
• Project Management: Ability to manage and execute large-scale projects with multiple stakeholders.

8.APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
Qualified candidates are invited to submit their applications, including a detailed CV, cover letter, and relevant certificates, to Hr@sdrb.gov.so and copy a.roble@sdrb.gov.so and abubakar@sdrb.gov.so.

The deadline for applications is 23rd December 2024, midnight Mogadishu time. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Note: SDRB is an equal opportunity employer. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.