IFC a member of the World Bank Group is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. We work in more than 100 countries, using our capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries. In fiscal year 2025, IFC committed a record $71 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging private sector solutions and mobilizing private capital to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. For more information, visit www.ifc.org.
IFC is looking for a Short-Term Consultant-Digital Specialist to provide expertise and guidance on projects to scale and develop digital financial services for selected Banks in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. The Short-Term Consultant is expected to support the IFC team in identifying potential digital transformation interventions for FIG clients and other potential partners in the banking sector in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos to increase access to finance for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Project Background
Digital adoption, like in many industries, has accelerated in the banking sector due to the changing buying behaviors and preferences after the COVID-19 pandemic. The new technologies have facilitated inclusive growth by catering to underserved and unserved segments, including women and people with disabilities (PWD), which has propelled the entries of new digital banks as well as the digital transformation of incumbent banks. In Vietnam, IFC has opportunities to work with i) incumbent banks to create and materialize digital transformation strategies to cater to the changing consumer needs and preferences, and ii) with traditional banks to promote access to financial services for underserved and unbanked populations, particularly for women and people with disabilities.
Disclaimer
- The assignment will take place in Vietnam and/or East Asia Pacific countries. Remote work may also be acceptable, but availability to travel to the project location is expected.
- The Consultant will report to the FIG Operation Officer in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos, and other IFC team members (as required). IFC needs to be informed in advance of any contacts or work arrangements with the producer within this assignment.
Role and Responsibilities
- Conduct a comprehensive assessment of the client&aposs existing IT infrastructure and its suitability for supporting a digital banking platform.
- Analyze and evaluate various digital banking solutions available in the market, considering factors such as functionality, scalability, security, and compliance with country regulations.
- Provide technical guidance and recommendations for the development and implementation of the digital banking platform, including selection of technologies, system architecture, and data security protocols.
- Review and evaluate technical documentation, including system design specifications, functional requirements, and user stories.
- Advise on best practices for designing and delivering digital financial services that are user-friendly, secure, and meet the needs of the target population in the country.
- Analyze market trends and identify emerging technologies relevant to the digital banking project.
- Detailed analyses and mapping of identified banks to deepen understanding of their existing digital financial services efforts in their operations.
- Deep knowledge of and experience with developing and implementing digital end to- end customer fulfillment process and systems, as well as customer journey.
- Perform client diagnostics / deep dives with selected banks to assess future strategies for digital transformation, including products and services, potential financing needs, portfolio size and segments. This will also include interviews with potential partners management and stakeholders to determine the action plan for the digital strategies.
- Additional deliverables will be customized as per each intervention with a bank and agreed with the consultant ahead of time.
Selection Criteria
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in IT systems design and implementation, and digital financial services, preferably within the banking or nonbanking financial services sector.
- Strong understanding of digital banking platforms, including core banking systems, mobile banking solutions, and other relevant technologies.
- Demonstrated expertise in digital financial services (DFS) and best practices in DFS delivery.
- Work experience in Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, or in other emerging markets is a must.
- Ability to collect, assess, and analyze data and perform client diagnostics on digitalization.
- Familiarity with lending terms and offers in the market to be able to benchmark.
- Experience and strong familiarity with sound market practices and trends in financial and digital regulation, and familiarity with regulatory work and the country&aposs financial regulatory bodies.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills and sound business judgment to identify issues and present creative and practical solutions.
- Professionalism in delivering high-quality work within the given time frame.
- Fluency in English, both orally and in writing, is required. Fluency in Vietnamese is a plus.
Application & Contract
Please send your CV and a Cover Letter to [Confidential Information] by September 8, 2025. The selected candidate will be awarded a contract (starting October 2025) for up to 30 days for Fiscal Year 2026, ending on June 30, 2026. The exact number of days may evolve depending on business needs.
World Bank Group Core Competencies
We are proud to be an equal opportunity and inclusive employer with a dedicated and committed workforce, and we do not discriminate based on gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. Learn more about working at the World Bank and IFC, including our values and inspiring stories, at www.ifc.org.
