Senior Sector Specialist – Energy

Vacancy Number: 2103

Job Profile

The Senior Energy Specialist will draft and lead the development of the OPEC Fund’s energy policies and contribute to the lending program through business development and by supporting the planning, design, preparation, and implementation of projects and programs that address the growing energy demands and enhance energy efficiency in developing partner countries.

Key areas of contribution include facilitating energy transition efforts and supporting projects in energy generation, transmission, and distribution. Additionally, the incumbent will provide technical expertise to the Regional Units in the preparation and appraisal of energy project financing with a strong emphasis on climate change mitigation. The Senior Energy Specialist will also contribute to developing and building the capacity of employees through targeted training programs.

Duties and Responsibilities

Accountabilities & Responsibilities

• Provide and lead energy sector analytical work including preparation of strategic documentation (including presentations, proposals, notes, and other material) required for business development, supervision and dissemination of activities and strategies.
• Develop investment strategies with clients to pursue the most effective approach to achieve energy efficiency in various economic environments and the specific needs of developing partner countries.
• Lead and conduct the assessment of energy policies in partner countries to understand their impact on energy transition and operations and service delivery in the countries.
• Identify innovative solutions for the development of energy sector operations to support sustainable economic development and poverty reduction in consultation with partner countries, development partners and other stakeholders.
• Contribute to the design, preparation, and delivery of energy projects, focusing on technical quality and delivery of development outcomes. This also entails reviewing the technical designs, implementation arrangements, and adequacy of procurement and fiduciary arrangements of projects in coordination with other team members.
• Participate and at times co-lead teams in operational missions, supporting the identification, preparation or appraisal of potential new operations and the supervision of the implementation of a selected number of ongoing projects.
• Assist in the preparation of different documents including Aide Memoire, Implementation Status and Completion Reports, Concept Notes, and Appraisal Documents.

Knowledge Management and Innovations

• Identify innovative ideas and provide expertise, recommendations and improvement proposals to Country Managers on energy sector matters.
• Contribute to knowledge building and management in the energy sector and keep abreast of the latest developments and issues in the sector.
• Ensure effective dissemination of lessons learnt and best practices in the energy sector to promote knowledge at OPEC Fund by collaborating with other departments/entities.

Perform other duties as required by the Director, Operations Planning & Support Unit relevant to the area of responsibilities.

Qualifications and Experience

• Master’s degree or equivalent in engineering, economics, finance, or related fields.
• A minimum of 10 years relevant professional experience
• Proven practical experience in a multi-lateral development institution.
• Experience producing research papers, analysis and briefs for the multi-lateral development institution and other international organizations is an advantage.
• Certification in relevant field such as Certified Energy Manager (CEM), LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP0), Certified Renewable Energy Professional (REP), Certified Energy Auditor (CEA), Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Carbon Auditing Professional (CAP), Certified Sustainable Development Professional (CSDP)
• Fluent in English. Good working knowledge of Arabic, French or Spanish is an added advantage.

Technical Competencies

• Robust analytical skills with regard to energy sector and development finance
• Strong operational skills in one or more technical areas, such as energy generation (including renewables), transmission and distribution project financing and operations, climate change financing, public-private partnerships, or infrastructure issues
• Strong organizational skills, as well as the ability to prioritize tasks and ensure timely completion of tasks under pressure.
• Proactive application of relevant international best practices to own work
• Demonstrated project management experience.

Competencies

• Subject Matter Knowledge – The in-depth understanding and expertise in specific fields relevant to the OPEC Fund’s operations and the individual’s role.
• Ability to Work Under Pressure – The capacity to remain composed, focused and productive when facing tight deadlines, high-stakes situations and demanding workloads.
• Collaboration and Teamwork – The ability to effectively work with colleagues, stakeholders and partners to achieve shared goals.
• Communication – The ability to relay ideas, information and messages effectively and succinctly to a variety of audiences.
• Customer Centricity – The ability to focus on comprehending and addressing customer needs; consistently deliver exceptional service and foster strong, lasting customer relationships.
• Cross-Cultural Sensitivity – The ability to take into account the variety of the human experience and how it contributes to the workplace and to demonstrate respect for diverse cultures and viewpoints.
• Decision making – The ability to analyze information comprehensively to make well-informed decisions; assess both immediate and long-term ramifications.
• Effective Planning and Follow Up – The ability to set clear goals and priorities; skillfully organize tasks for efficiency; consistently follow through on commitments and plans.
• Problem Solving Ability – The ability to identify issues adeptly, delve into root causes, and devise pragmatic solutions; demonstrate ingenuity and resourcefulness in overcoming challenges.
• Sense of Responsibility – The ability to demonstrate ownership and accountability in tasks and outcomes; uphold reliability and commitment to fulfilling responsibilities.