Investment Associate, Project Finance
Location:
Casablanca, Morocco
Description
Background
Africa50 is a pan-African infrastructure investor and asset manager that contributes to Africa's growth by developing and investing in bankable projects, catalyzing public sector capital, and mobilizing private sector funding.
Africa50 has raised over US$938 million so far from 32 African governments, the African Development Bank, PIC, and two central banks, and intends to reach a target capitalization of US$3 billion. Africa50 has an independent investment process and seeks to generate commercial risk adjusted returns for its investments across four core infrastructure sectors: energy (including power generation and related parts of the value chain), midstream gas, transportation, and ICT.
The Project Finance Investment team makes private equity investments into late-stage projects, growth companies and platform businesses, alongside lead sponsors and entrepreneurs.
Purpose of the Role
The Investment Associate's role is to support the Managing Director and the Directors in providing technical support to management to ensure the effective execution and performance of Africa50 – Project Finance (Africa50 PF) investment and non-investment activities.
Principal Responsibilities
Work across infrastructure and infra-adjacent sectors Develop a strong pipeline of investment opportunities through anticipating market trends and employing sector/country knowledge Execute and close Africa50’s equity investments, with a strong focus on achieving commercial returns and development impact Have a good understanding and the ability to structure investments across the financing spectrum with deep knowledge of equity investing Exposure and comfort with project and corporate finance debt from the point of view of an equity investor Participate in negotiations for investment documents (SHA, SPA, debt agreements and other relevant agreements) Produce investment materials based on a thorough understanding of several infrastructure sectors, including power, transport, midstream gas, ICT, healthcare, education and fintech Develop an investment thesis, understand risks and produce investment materials to propose an investment to an Investment Committee Supervise, development and review complex financial models Participate in due diligence process and commercial, strategic, operational, financial and legal due diligence Assess ESG and impact aspects of an investment Work with portfolio companies to create value for shareholders
Candidate Profile
Required background
Focused and rigorous 4+ years’ experience at a top tier investment bank, private equity firm, DFI or similar global finance institution Demonstrated academic excellence; undergraduate degree from Ivy League or similar top academic institutions MBA or MSc Finance from top tier business school, or equivalent Strong relationships in Africa - whether it be origin or a demonstrated long-term interest/commitment. Existing relationships in Africa are a plus
Essential Qualities
Positive attitude Integrity Strong work ethic Willingness to travel regularly Self-starter / high initiative High sense of urgency Clarity of thought and action Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Knowledge, Skills, and Experience
Interest in Africa50’s mission, strategy and values Strong connection to Africa and intent to have Africa focused career Significant relevant work experience: At least 4 years of equity investor or similar experience Strong financial modelling skills (growth equity / private equity experience preferred) Knowledge of Africa50 investment sector trends (power, ICT, midstream gas, transportation, healthcare, education and fintech) and experience in emerging markets (especially Africa) is a plus Superb organizational and deal management capabilities – ability to multitask is critical Ability to interact directly and independently with the senior management of portfolio companies Strong ability to negotiate with multiple counterparties and wield influence in a professional manner Strong inter-personal skills, ability to interact effectively with sponsors, partners, and colleagues from various cultural backgrounds; living experience in emerging countries is a plus Culturally sensitive and able to relate to people of diverse backgrounds Genuine commitment to sustainable development. Deep understanding of how investments are executed and structured Sound knowledge of legal, financial, tax and regulatory matters Fluent English (French is a plus)
Location
The role will be based in Casablanca, Morocco with flexible remote working arrangements.
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
If you are interested in this role,
