Are you passionate about making a meaningful impact in Ukraine through promoting sustainable investments in both private and public sectors? Do you possess extensive leadership experience, diplomatic skills, and a robust network, along with expertise in project financing and development? If so, we invite you to consider joining our team as the Head of Office in Kyiv.

IFU is a Danish development finance institution that provides risk capital and advice to companies investing in developing countries and emerging markets. IFU's purpose is to contribute to economic and social development and support the realization of the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement. IFU operates globally and has regional offices in several countries, including Ukraine.
 

The responsibility

As the Head of Office, you are heading up a team of two investment professionals; one Investment Director and one Investment Manager, and you are responsible for coordinating and promoting IFU's activities in Ukraine, both in the private and public sector. You will work closely with the two IFU colleagues at the embassy in Kyiv, as well as with the IFU and DSIF teams in Copenhagen. You will also liaise with relevant stakeholders in Ukraine and Denmark, such as authorities, companies, banks, funds, and other development finance institutions.

The team identify and develop new investment opportunities for IFU and support the management of IFU's portfolio in Ukraine, including representing IFU on the board of directors in selected companies. You will also support the identification and implementation of suitable DSIF projects, which provide access to finance for sustainable public infrastructure projects that cannot be financed on market terms.

This is a fixed term role for two years. The role is situated at the Danish Embassy in Kyiv and will report to the Senior Vice President for Eastern Europe, situated in Copenhagen. There is a dotted reporting line to the Senior Vice President for IFU’s DANIDA Sustainable Infrastructure Finance (DSIF) focusing on projects with concessional or blended finance. In matters related to Ukrainian authorities, the Head of Office reports to the Danish Ambassador to Ukraine.  

Skills and experience

The role demands strong diplomatic skills, cultural awareness, and proven expertise in project financing and investments in developing countries. Experience with international banks, financial tools, and development finance trends from multilateral organizations is beneficial, as is experience in public procurement and infrastructure financing. Proficiency in Danish and English is required.

Traits

Capability to exhibit patience, determination, initiative, outstanding organizational skills, independence in work, leadership of processes and teams, and the ability to mentor others.

Secondment – important prerequisite

This role is a fixed-term employment with IFU in Copenhagen. The appointment falls under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' Special Attaché programme, which necessitates Danish citizenship for the employee. The individual will serve as a Counsellor at the Embassy of Denmark in Ukraine.

The work is conducted under wartime circumstances, necessitating that the individual undergo specialized training and psychological evaluations.

To be employed as a special attaché, you must obtain and maintain relevant security clearance. You must also meet the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' conditions, including safety courses and psychological screening.
As a special attaché, you'll follow the local ambassador's instructions. You'll receive tax-free allowances and services for additional expenses, such as travel and accommodation.

Currently, bringing family to the post is not allowed.