WBG Resident Representative, Guyana and Suriname

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group (WBG) is a global organization that aims to reduce poverty and support development by providing financial and technical assistance to developing countries. Established in 1944, the WBG operates in 145 countries with over 10,000 employees. Its mission is to end extreme poverty and promote shared prosperity by investing in people, strengthening markets, and delivering scalable solutions to development challenges. The WBG comprises five institutions, including the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and has a presence in more than 182 offices worldwide. The organization focuses on partnerships with governments, the private sector, and other stakeholders to create jobs and improve lives.

Job Overview:
The WBG is seeking a joint Resident Representative for Guyana and Suriname, a critical role that involves representing the organization in relationships with the government, private sector clients, and key partners. The Resident Representative will oversee the operations, investments, and programs of all WBG institutions in the country. This position requires a deep understanding of the development needs and challenges faced by Guyana and Suriname, particularly in the context of low productivity, job quality, and resilience to economic shocks. The Resident Representative will report to the IBRD Division Director for the Caribbean and Haiti and will be a member of the IBRD and IFC regional management teams. The role demands strategic engagement with various stakeholders to enhance the effectiveness of WBG's initiatives and ensure alignment with the Country Partnership Framework (CPF).

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Resident Representative will be responsible for developing and implementing country-level strategies, leading day-to-day engagement with the government, and coordinating programming that delivers optimal solutions for both the private and public sectors. Key responsibilities include evaluating market creation approaches, providing guidance on investments and advisory services, and ensuring high-quality results on the ground. The role also involves managing relationships with development partners, NGOs, and civil society groups, as well as overseeing the WBG country office team and budget. The Resident Representative will keep regional management informed of economic, social, and political developments and contribute to knowledge management and communications efforts to enhance the visibility of the WBG in the region.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or PhD in a relevant field such as business, finance, or economics. A minimum of 8 years of professional experience in positions of increasing complexity and responsibility in an international context is required. Candidates should have a strong understanding of the dynamics between public and private sectors in achieving development goals, as well as experience in portfolio management and implementation support. Excellent political, diplomatic, and partnership skills are essential, along with strong analytical and business skills to assess project viability and sustainable development impact. Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record in offering integrated solutions to clients in challenging contexts and possess excellent people management skills.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Master’s degree or PhD in a relevant field, which may include business, finance, economics, or a sector-specific area of expertise. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of development challenges and the financial mechanisms employed by the WBG.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 8 years of professional experience in roles that demonstrate increasing complexity and responsibility. This experience should ideally be in an international context, with a focus on country program management, business consulting, investment banking, or operational roles relevant to the sectors in Guyana and Suriname.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English. Proficiency in additional languages is preferred but not required, as the primary communication will be conducted in English.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an Open-Ended Staff role, indicating that it is not time-limited and may continue indefinitely based on performance and organizational needs. The recruitment is international, allowing for candidates from various countries to apply. The role is full-time, and the WBG offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan, medical and life insurance, paid leave, and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates.