Associate

Position Summary

Meridiam recruits an Associate to join the team based in Dakar, Senegal. The selected candidate will work as a member of the investment team to develop infrastructure projects under the Public-Private Partnership model.

S/he will report directly to the Executive Director based in Dakar and will support the development of infrastructure projects under the guidance of Investment Directors in charge.

Duties & key responsibilities

Work as a member of Meridiam investment team to develop infrastructure projects under the public-private partnership model. This includes in particular the following:

·       Responsible for the preparation and timely submission of all deliverables required during each phase of the project (RFQ, RFP, closing)

·       Participate in the general risk analysis of the project

·       Assist in the preparation of consortium arrangements including teaming agreements

·   Participate in the review and negotiation of legal documents, including concession agreements, design-build agreements, operating agreements and finance documents

·      Participate in the due diligence process, including liaising with respective advisers (legal, technical, insurance, model audit) and coordinating required input from construction and operation partners

·      Participate in the debt raising process, including dealing with banks, capital markets providers and ratings agencies

·      Participate in the financial analysis of the project and in the optimization of the project economics by:

=> Performing detailed analysis of financial model

=> Analyzing potential financial alternatives

=> Running sensitivities

·      Responsible for the drafting of all internal memoranda to be presented to the Management and Investment Committee

·      Lead the selection process and coordination of all consultants/advisers (legal, financial, technical, insurance, accounting, tax, etc.)

·     Participate in origination of new opportunities, including performing analysis of market sectors, public sector clients and design, construction or operation partners

·      Coordinate with internal Finance group for all relevant matters; and

·      Other ad-hoc work to be performed in the day-to-day activity of the fund manager

Skills & Specifications:

·      From three to five years relevant experience in private equity

·         First experience in project or infrastructure finance

·         Advanced degree in Economics, Finance or Engineering or another related field

·         Strong ability to work collaboratively in a small team, proactive and able to take initiatives

·         Solid project management, leadership, and organizational skills

·         Excellent interpersonal, written and oral communication skills

·         Strong analytical and negotiation skills

·         Ability to recommend practical ways using innovation, good judgment, creativity and strategic thinking

Terms and conditions:

•          Location: role based in Dakar. This role may include some travels mainly in West African countries

•          Package: compensation will be commensurate to experience and qualifications

•          Availability:  as soon as possible

•          Benefits: Comprehensive medical and life insurance package

Recruitment process:

Retained candidates will be invited for interviews with the Executive Director, members of the Dakar team, Meridiam’s HR representative and other relevant stakeholders as deemed relevant.