IDB Invest

IDB Invest - Head of Tourism & Real Estate - Corporates Division

We are looking for a Head of Tourism & Real Estate to join the Corporates Division (SMC) within the Industries and Cross-Cutting Themes Department (ICT) at IDB Invest. You will report to the Managing Director of the Corporates Division (SMC). ICT engages with clients and partners for origination, structuring, closing, and supervision of transactions with strong development impact. SMC leads origination and delivery of operations in Tourism, Manufacturing, Mining, Digital Economy, Agribusiness & Forestry across IDB Invest’s 26-country footprint.

You will lead the investment strategy across hospitality, leisure, and real estate sectors in Latin America and the Caribbean. The role involves developing new business opportunities, leading key client engagements, and originating developmental transactions in the sector to support sustainable urban development, inclusive tourism, and resilient infrastructure with strong financial returns and measurable development impact.

• Spearhead the design and execution of IDB Invest’s tourism and real estate strategy and investment program, aligning with institutional priorities.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with global and regional clients to generate new investments; pursue partnerships to expand IDB Invest’s impact in tourism and real estate.
• Collaborate with regional investment teams to provide sector insights during due diligence, evaluate project strengths/weaknesses, define KPIs, analyze unit economics, and conduct sector analysis.
• Lead engagement with IDB public sector teams and Regions Department to identify regulatory gaps, develop bankable projects, and build project pipelines in tourism and real estate.
• Lead industry and market research to support origination and execution, ensuring alignment with IDB Invest’s strategy.
• Develop sector-specific products in coordination with Regions and Products Departments to enhance IDB Invest’s value proposition.
• Review eligibility and investment proposals, provide recommendations to the regional Director of Corporates or Managing Director, and contribute to investment decision meetings with sector insights.
• Develop and disseminate sector knowledge and training for internal teams and external stakeholders; ensure regional consistency in addressing industry challenges and risk factors.
• Coordinate with development partners to address sector-specific environmental, social, credit, reputational risks, and development impact; collaborate with IDB Invest teams for cohesive approach.
• Support the development of IDBG Country Strategies and IDB Invest multi-year Business Plans related to tourism and real estate.
• Assist in selecting and briefing technical consultants for due diligence as needed.
• Represent IDB Invest at conferences and events to increase visibility and stay informed on sector trends; network with industry leaders and stakeholders.

• Education: Advanced degree (Masters, MBA, or equivalent) in economics, finance, business, engineering, or related field. Sustainable tourism specialization is desirable.
• Experience: At least 10 years in the tourism and real estate sector with established C-level relationships; experience in investment/advisory firm or development bank; strong client relationship skills; knowledge of industry trends, risks, and opportunities.
• Language: Proficiency in English and Spanish; knowledge of Portuguese is a plus.

• Citizenship: Washington DC: No requirements. LAC: citizen of a IDB Group member country in LAC or eligible to work there.
• Consanguinity: No family members (up to fourth degree of consanguinity or second degree of affinity, including spouse) working at IDB, IDB Invest, or IDB Lab.

• Washington DC: International staff contract, 36 months initially, renewable by mutual agreement.
• LAC: National staff contract, 36 months initially, renewable by mutual agreement.

• Competitive compensation package.
• Leaves and vacations: 24 days PTO, 8 personal days, sick leave, and gender-neutral parental leave.
• Health insurance for employees and eligible dependents (medical, dental, vision, preventive care, prescriptions).
• Defined benefit pension plan.
• Hybrid and flexible work schedules.
• Health services and wellbeing programs for employees.
• Development support: mentoring, counseling, training, language classes, mobility options, and more.

We strive for excellence and inclusion, inviting individuals from underrepresented groups to contribute their perspectives. We provide reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities during the interview process. If you require an accommodation, please email

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