Are you a skilled and passionate professional looking for an opportunity to contribute to infrastructure development across Southern Africa? The Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) is seeking qualified individuals for two exciting Project Preparation Specialist positions. If you have a background in business, economics, engineering, or finance, and possess significant expertise in project finance or corporate finance, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.
Key Details About the Job Vacancy
- Job Title: Project Preparation Specialist X2
- Job Grade: 16
- Job Type Classification: Permanent
- Closing Date: 2025/06/18
- Location: Midrand, Gauteng, South Africa
- Reference Number: DBS250113-1
Key Responsibilities
Here’s an overview of the main responsibilities you’ll take on in this dynamic role:
1. Project Assessment and Preparation
- You will contribute to the strategic direction and operational aspects of preparing infrastructure projects.
- Conduct comprehensive feasibility studies in the areas of economic, technical, financial, social, environmental, and legal aspects.
- You will perform economic cost-benefit analysis to assess the viability of projects.
- Help to structure innovative financial models for transactions, either as project finance or corporate finance.
- Provide support in identifying and assessing bankable projects by reviewing master plans and development plans from government entities and private sector sponsors.
- Lead the appraisal of projects, producing reports to present to DBSA’s decision-making structures.
2. Project Communication and Stakeholder Engagement
- Establish and maintain strong relationships with clients across the public and private sectors, including government officials, business leaders, and international partners.
- Manage stakeholder relationships throughout the project preparation process and ensure continuous communication.
- Provide regular monitoring and progress reports to clients and ensure their understanding of the bank’s processes.
- Support client portfolios to align with the DBSA’s broader business objectives.
3. Oversee the Project Preparation Facility
- Manage the preparation facility agreements, ensuring that disbursements are made according to the agreed-upon implementation plans.
- Monitor the implementation of facilities, overseeing project preparation tasks that make projects bankable for financing.
4. Team and Behavioral KPIs
- You will also be responsible for ensuring that team dynamics and performance align with the DBSA’s goals, contributing to team behavioral KPIs.
- Deliver quality presentations and reports that demonstrate your deep understanding of the projects and their development progress.
Essential Skills and Qualifications
To thrive in the role of a Project Preparation Specialist, you will need to have both the technical expertise and the right professional experience. Below are the minimum and desirable qualifications for the position:
Minimum Requirements
- Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Business, Economics, Engineering, or Finance.
- Experience: You must have at least 5-7 years of experience working in a credit assessment or transaction team in commercial banking, corporate finance, or project finance.
- Financial Knowledge: In-depth knowledge and experience with project finance, mergers and acquisitions, equity finance, and/or property finance structuring.
- Technical Competence: Proficiency in financial modeling and development finance tools, particularly in the context of infrastructure projects.
Desirable Requirements
- Postgraduate Qualifications in Development Finance, Business, Engineering, or Finance will be an advantage.
- Professional designations such as CA (Chartered Accountant), CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst), or MBA are highly desirable.
Technical Skills
- Strong understanding of limited recourse and balance sheet funding, as well as the steps required to prepare projects for investment decision-making.
- Demonstrated ability to manage teams of sector specialists, external consultants, and advisors to ensure successful project preparation.
- Sector knowledge in fields like water, transport, and energy will be crucial in identifying risks and ensuring the success of the projects.
Key Competencies
Apart from the technical and academic qualifications, there are key personal and professional traits that are essential for success in this role. These competencies include:
1. Project Management Expertise
- You must have a proven track record of defining, planning, and managing complex projects, with national or organizational implications.
- Ability to assemble and lead multi-disciplinary teams, ensuring optimal use of resources.
- You should be capable of identifying complex issues and proposing corrective actions.
2. Business Acumen
- Strategic thinking is a must—understanding the long-term business objectives and how short-term projects contribute to these goals.
- Business development experience is highly valued, as you’ll be responsible for identifying market opportunities and actively pursuing business development strategies.
3. Financial Analysis and Reporting
- A thorough understanding of financial compliance with industry regulations and accounting principles is critical.
- Ability to develop financial models, interpret financial records, and produce complex reports.
4. Excellent Communication Skills
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to simplify complex information for diverse audiences.
- Ability to deliver persuasive presentations and work effectively with senior stakeholders.
5. Leadership and Teamwork
- Demonstrated leadership in managing projects and teams effectively to achieve results.
- Ability to create a collaborative team environment, promoting cooperation and resolving conflicts when necessary.
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How to Apply
If you meet the qualifications and are excited about the opportunity to work with DBSA, the next step is to apply. Make sure your application is submitted before the closing date of 2025/06/18 to be considered.
You will need to submit your updated CV, along with a cover letter that demonstrates how your qualifications and experience align with the requirements of the role. Additionally, ensure that you provide the correct reference number, DBS250113-1, when submitting your application.
For more details on the application process and to download the job profile, visit the DBSA’s official career portal.
