Senior Economist

Job Posting Organization:
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a member of the World Bank Group (WBG) and is recognized as the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. Established to promote economic development through the private sector, IFC operates in over 100 countries, leveraging its capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing nations. The organization's mission is to utilize the power of the private sector to eradicate extreme poverty and foster shared prosperity in a sustainable manner. The IFC 2030 strategy is designed to mobilize private capital at scale to generate more and better jobs, particularly in emerging markets, and is anchored in four transformative pillars: Enhanced Origination and Mobilization, New Approach to Equity, Revamped Support for MSMEs, and Different Ways of Working and New Skills. These strategic shifts are aimed at scaling IFC's development impact in a rapidly evolving global economy.

Job Overview:
The Senior Economist position is situated within the Country Advisory and Economics Unit of the Middle East, Central Asia, Türkiye, Afghanistan, and Pakistan (MCT) region. This role is crucial for supporting the IFC business by developing diagnostics and targeted reforms that help eliminate market barriers. The Senior Economist will provide direct support to operational teams and country units, leveraging coordination across the World Bank Group (WBG). The ideal candidate will be a motivated and dynamic professional with exceptional analytical skills, policy-relevant experience, and expertise in private sector development and applied research. The role will primarily focus on the Middle East, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, with the potential to expand to other countries in the MCT region as needed. The Senior Economist will be responsible for identifying and developing real-time analytics, providing timely input to IFC investment projects, contributing to business development, and leading or supporting the preparation of various strategic documents.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Economist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Identifying and developing real-time analytics using economic modeling, firm-level data, and sector-specific indicators to create markets and shape business strategies.
• Providing timely and quality input to IFC investment projects regarding country/regional context, macro/market analysis, policy issues, and strategic fit throughout the project life cycle, particularly for high-risk projects.
• Contributing to business development by supplying investment and advisory teams with customized, up-to-date research, including macro/market updates and assessments of regional-global trends.
• Offering analytical support and advice to CMCAE project teams to identify and implement actionable reforms that can unlock private sector opportunities.
• Leading or supporting the preparation of Country Private Sector Diagnostics (CPSDs), Country Partnership Frameworks (CPF), and Country Climate and Development Reports (CCDR) in selected countries, coordinating with regional and industry colleagues.
• Acting as a focal point for coordination between IFC, IBRD, and MIGA, contributing to strategic country engagement products and ensuring alignment with key private sector reforms.
• Ensuring analytical alignment between diagnostics and expected development outcomes, leveraging IFC’s results framework.
• Collaborating with WBG’s global economics and industry teams to coordinate diagnostics and develop flagship studies.
• Providing front-office support to the Division Director and Vice-President of the MCT Region, preparing analytics and updates on economies and markets. 1
• Facilitating consultations with various stakeholders, mentoring junior colleagues, and contributing to public knowledge through publications.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a PhD in Economics with a minimum of 8 years of experience, or a Master's degree with at least 10 years of experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. A strong track record of excellence in research and analytics, including published work, is essential. Candidates should demonstrate proven expertise in both macro- and micro-level issues, with solid knowledge of private sector policies and market dynamics. Familiarity with economic models, financial models, or econometric approaches is desirable. The ability to understand the macroeconomic framework and its impacts on financial flows and private investments is crucial. Strong writing and communication skills are necessary, along with the ability to work effectively as a team leader and member.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a PhD in Economics or a Master's degree in a related field. Candidates should have a strong foundation in economic theory, quantitative methods, and applied research, with a focus on private sector development and market analysis. Advanced training in econometrics or financial modeling is preferred, as well as coursework or experience related to macroeconomic policy and private sector regulations.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience for candidates with a PhD, or at least 10 years for those with a Master's degree. Experience should include a strong focus on research and analytics, particularly in the context of private sector development, macroeconomic diagnostics, and policy dialogue. Candidates should have a proven ability to deliver programs and solutions to clients, as well as experience in leading or contributing to analytical work within the World Bank Group.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English, with proficiency in Arabic considered a preferred asset. Candidates should possess strong communication skills in both languages to effectively interact with internal stakeholders and clients in the region.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a contract duration of 3 years. It involves international recruitment, and the selected candidate will be expected to work in Amman, Jordan. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunity for all applicants regardless of gender, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.