Lead Portfolio Advisor – Abidjan

About the role

The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is seeking a Lead Portfolio Advisor to provide authoritative expertise and technical leadership on its programmes across global, regional and national levels. Based in Abidjan, the incumbent will support the West and Central Africa Division in delivering high‑quality portfolio management and policy guidance.

Key responsibilities

• Lead corporate processes aimed at improving the efficiency of IFAD‑funded operations.
• Collaborate with the Regional Economist to ensure timely divisional portfolio management and PoLG delivery.
• Act as Officer‑In‑Charge for the West and Central Africa Division when required, representing the Director at senior meetings and external events.
• Support the development and revision of operational policies and procedures within the Portfolio Advisors' Group.
• Provide operational policy advice to enhance IFAD’s business model and investment outcomes.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in portfolio management and development finance.
• Proven ability to lead technical advisory functions at multi‑level (global, regional, national) settings.
• Strong understanding of agricultural development, rural poverty reduction and IFAD’s strategic objectives.
• Excellent communication skills for representing senior management in internal and external forums.

Required skills