What is the OPEC Fund?
The OPEC Fund for International Development, in short the OPEC Fund, is a multilateral development bank established in 1976. With its headquarters in Vienna, Austria, the organization has a distinctive mandate: its member countries fund development projects in non-member countries with the mission of eradicating poverty. Today, the OPEC Fund has a truly diverse workforce of approximately 213 professionals representing 57 nationalities.
A People-Centred Approach to Development
The OPEC Fund focuses on impactful projects that directly improve lives. Christel highlights the fund's clean cooking initiative as one of their most hands-on projects, addressing an issue that affects billions of people across their partner countries. The fund also supports women-led entrepreneurship programs and collaborates with other institutions like the Asian Development Bank on infrastructure partnerships
Career Opportunities at the OPEC Fund
The OPEC Fund offers roles across multiple disciplines, from investment management and analysis to finance, HR, public sector operations, and strategy. They attract professionals from diverse backgrounds, including the private sector, UN agencies, and other international financial institutions.
For those looking to begin their journey with the organization, the OPEC Fund offers internship programs open to all applicants and a Young Professional Development Program specifically for candidates from member countries. The organization also provides opportunities for long-term careers, with the possibility of open-ended contracts after satisfactory service.
Vienna: An Ideal Location for International Professionals
As one of the main UN cities, Vienna offers an exceptional quality of life for international professionals. Christel describes it as being at "the heart of Europe," with excellent connectivity, reliable public transportation, abundant cultural activities, beautiful natural surroundings, and excellent schools. Notably, housing in Vienna remains more affordable than in other major international hubs like Paris, Geneva, New York, or Copenhagen.
The organization's headquarters location is another unique perk—situated in a palace in the heart of Vienna's old town, offering employees both a beautiful work environment and access to Vienna's rich cultural scene and strong international community.
Career Advice from an ‘International Development Veteran’
With nearly 20 years of experience across UN agencies and international organizations, Christel shares some valuable advice for professionals aspiring to careers in international development:
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Be flexible about opportunities, including consultancies and temporary contracts, to get your foot in the door
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Maintain agility and continuously reinvent yourself
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Take charge of your own learning and development
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Develop transferable skills that can move between different roles and organizations
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Focus on problem-solving abilities that can be applied to any challenge
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Cultivate cross-cultural communication skills to navigate multicultural environments
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Practice active listening and conflict resolution techniques
The OPEC Fund's Support for Professional Growth
The organization has implemented leadership development programs for senior management and directors, with plans to expand these initiatives to emerging talents. In early 2024, the fund established a women's network to support female professionals in the workplace.
For those interested in making a global impact while working in a diverse, results-oriented environment, the OPEC Fund offers a compelling career path in international development.