Requirements and recruitment

Would you like to become a staff member of an International Financial Institution? If so, you will need a relevant educational background, several years of work experience, English proficiency, and a range of ‘soft skills’.

Most positions at IFIsInternational Financial Institutions are externally advertised and open to internal and external applicants. International positions are open to applicants from all around the world; the selection process is highly competitive. Therefore, you will only be considered if your profile matches the experience and skills required for the position.

Minimum requirements

Most international staff positions require a Master’s degree or PhD along with a minimum of 4-5 years of relevant work experience. Fluency in English is a must, additional languages may be required or are desirable.

In addition, successful applicants must demonstrate a number of ‘soft skills’, such as:

commitment to and understanding of development issues
team work
client engagement and communication
leadership and problem-solving skills
initiative and creativity
competencies in project management, planning and organisation
writing and presentation skills

Application and recruitment

IFIs have detailed career webpages explaining different entry opportunities and offering vacancies. Blind applications are not accepted.

Take your time to read the job description carefully to ensure that you meet most of the requirements. Then create a profile in the IFIInternational Financial Institution ’s career database and submit your documents as instructed.

If you need help with your application files or to prepare for a job interview, take a look at cinfo’s application support.

If you are not contacted by the recruiter, this does not mean that your profile is not interesting. Do not give up and apply again.

Urs Stauffer, Head of IC Personnel at cinfo

Once submitted, your application is screened by the HR department and, if suitable, placed on a longlist. The appropriate unit then reviews it and creates a shortlist of candidates to be invited for interviews. Several rounds of talks and assessments may follow.

The entire process can take several months and you will generally only be notified if you are invited for an interview. Don’t be discouraged if you are not invited – you may be the ideal candidate for another position, so keep applying!