Pan-African oil and gas institution, Africa Energy Bank, has launched the search for its inaugural president ahead of its official opening in June.
According to a document obtained by Energy in Africa on Monday, Afreximbank—one of the institution’s key backers—announced that qualified candidates are invited to submit their portfolios for consideration.
The Africa Energy Bank (AEB), a newly formed multilateral financial institution promoted by Afreximbank and the African Petroleum Producers’ Organisation (APPO), is expected to serve as a key financing vehicle for Africa’s energy security and transition plans.
The bank will focus on mobilising funds for oil, gas, and renewable energy projects across the continent.
“This is a landmark opportunity to lead a new financial institution that will shape Africa’s energy future,” the document stated.
Responsibilities and qualifications
According to the notice, the successful applicant will be tasked with the full establishment and operational launch of the Bank, including setting its strategic direction and securing new member states.
Key responsibilities include overseeing energy financing solutions, supervising governance systems, ensuring compliance, and expanding the bank’s reach.
The role also requires leading financing initiatives for both traditional fossil fuels and renewable energy projects.
Candidates must hold at least a bachelor’s degree in finance, banking, economics, law, or engineering, with a master’s degree or professional certification such as CFA or CPA preferred.
The bank is also seeking a candidate with at least 18 years of experience in energy finance, development banking, or investment within the African energy sector.
Applicants are expected to have in depth knowledge of Africa’s energy landscape, experience with infrastructure financing, and a proven record in senior leadership positions within similar institutions.
Working knowledge of French or Arabic is considered an added advantage.
Bank to bridge funding gap
Moreover, the Africa Energy Bank was created in response to the growing exit of global financiers from oil and gas projects on the continent.
The institution is treaty based and governed by a charter signed by its shareholders, mostly African states.
The bank aims to finance infrastructure that ensures reliable and affordable energy while supporting the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
It will also pursue innovation in energy funding, digital transformation, and mechanisms to increase access to energy infrastructure.
Performance of the president will be measured based on metrics such as the number of projects financed, stakeholder satisfaction, innovation in funding models, and compliance ratings.
The bank’s physical and legal set up is expected to be finalised ahead of its opening scheduled for June 2025.
