[Hiring] Regional Director, Central and South Asia @WaterConnect

Role Description

WaterConnect is seeking a commercially-driven infrastructure leader to originate, structure, develop, and execute WSS infrastructure projects in Central and South Asia, including both public-private partnerships (PPPs) and private projects serving industrial offtakers. The role offers the opportunity to join a high impact startup company backed by a larger global group, and to build and lead a regional portfolio of infrastructure investments in one of the fastest-growing global water markets.

The Regional Director is responsible for:

• Originating and developing a pipeline of bankable WSS infrastructure investments.
• Identifying opportunities, structuring partnerships, conducting due diligence, and advancing projects to financial close.
• Working with key stakeholders (including co-developers, municipal and industrial offtakers, and investors) to structure commercially viable infrastructure projects that attract private capital.

The Regional Director is expected to work closely with WaterConnect’s global team and will report to the Chief Infrastructure Development Officer.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in relevant field and/or equivalent related work experience.
• 10 or more years of progressive responsibility and experience in the origination, development, structuring, financing or advisory of water or other infrastructure projects in South and Central Asia, ideally gained in the private sector (e.g., developers, investment banks, advisory firms, or infrastructure investors).
• Proven track record of business development, with demonstrated success in originating opportunities, structuring partnerships, and cultivating key relationships.
• Knowledge of private sector participation in water supply and sanitation, including PPP structures, such as DBFOT, BOOT, HAM, and concessions.
• Experience in the development, financing, or implementation of infrastructure projects, with an advanced understanding of the project lifecycle (from origination and feasibility to financial close and commercial operations).
• Experience in preparing projects for, and reaching, financial close, including engagement with lenders, investors, and transaction advisors.
• Strong understanding of infrastructure policy and regulations in emerging markets and their impact on private investment and project bankability.
• Clear understanding of infrastructure investor requirements and processes, including familiarity with project finance structures, risk allocation, and investor diligence expectations.
• Self-driven & proactive problem-solver.
• Comfort working in a small, virtual team in a hands-on role.
• Multi-country experience in the Central or South Asia Region.
• Demonstrated commitment to social and environmental impact.
• Proficient (written and verbal) in English.

Requirements

• Masters’ degree in relevant field (preferred).
• 15 or more years’ total experience (preferred).

Benefits

• Overall compensation will be commensurate with education and experience and structured to reflect a competitive package for a full-time senior-level team member.
• No relocation benefits or visa sponsorship will be offered.

Physical Requirements

• Role includes regular online collaboration across time zones.
• Colleagues, partners, and service providers are based in the Americas, Africa, India, and East Asia.
• This role involves extended periods of sitting and reaching.
• This role requires the ability to see, talk, and hear.
• Travel may be required up to 20% of the time.

How to Apply

Submit a cover letter with salary requirements and a resume. Both documents must be in English.

WaterConnect is an equal-opportunity employer and on an intentional journey to determine how we can champion diversity, equity, and inclusion not only within our organization but also within our industry. We are committed to creating a diverse work environment that is characterized by engagement, a sense of connection, and respect for the differences and contributions of all our professionals. WaterConnect recruits, employs, trains, compensates, and promotes regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable law.

Don’t meet every single requirement? If you are enthusiastic about this role but find that your experience does not perfectly match every qualification listed, we still encourage you to apply. Your unique skills and perspective could make you the ideal candidate for this position.