Project Development Specialist (IDD)
Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA)
Midrand, South Africa · Southern Africa
Role type
Infrastructure & Project Finance
Experience
Senior
Deadline
2026-11-11
More Infrastructure & Project Finance opportunities
More investment & finance jobs in South Africa
Summary
Develop and package infrastructure projects from early concepts through feasibility and execution readiness at DBSA. The role combines sector research, bankability analysis, funding proposals and multidisciplinary coordination, helping build an investable project pipeline and improve delivery models for infrastructure priorities in South Africa and selected African markets.
About the role
Within DBSA’s Infrastructure Delivery Division, the specialist translates client and stakeholder needs into viable programme and project concepts. The work includes market and regulatory research, development frameworks, appraisal documents and implementation plans. Technical, legal, financial and environmental inputs are coordinated into coherent project packages, with support to transaction teams during due diligence and structuring. The mandate also emphasises product innovation, cost optimisation, quality assurance and relationships with investment divisions and external partners.
Key responsibilities
Research infrastructure gaps, sector opportunities and delivery constraints in South Africa, SADC and selected African countries.
Develop project concepts, feasibility assessments and technical appraisal documents aligned with DBSA priorities.
Prepare funding applications, concept notes and pitches for internal and external financiers.
Coordinate technical, legal, financial and environmental inputs into execution-ready project packages.
Develop cost estimates, schedules, execution plans and statements of requirements and support transaction due diligence.
Monitor risks, development timelines and quality standards while maintaining client and institutional relationships.
Key requirements
Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, Finance or an equivalent qualification; postgraduate study is an advantage.
At least eight years across project management, planning, preparation and packaging, project finance or related concept, proposal and bid work.
In-depth experience sourcing bankable projects and structuring and closing investments in South Africa.
Experience developing products and innovative infrastructure-investment strategies and originating new business.
Planning, scheduling, budgeting, document interpretation and negotiated-project capability.
Experience engaging senior political and institutional stakeholders in South Africa and Africa; CA, CFA or MBA and project-finance experience are desirable.
Official DBSA requisition DBS251127-2. Closing date: 11 November 2026.
Keep exploring
Similar opportunities
Senior Investments Officer
Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA)
Midrand, South Africa
Principal Deal Originator Transport & Logistics
Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA)
Midrand, South Africa
Senior Country Risk Officer
Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA)
Midrand, South Africa
Monitoring Specialist
Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA)
Midrand, South Africa