Urban Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a prominent global institution established with the mission to end extreme poverty and promote shared prosperity. It is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, comprising five institutions that work collaboratively to address the most pressing development challenges. With 189 member countries and over 120 offices worldwide, the World Bank Group engages in a wide range of projects and initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable development. The organization operates in various sectors, including urban development, health, education, and infrastructure, and has a significant presence in Western and Central Africa, where it manages a portfolio of over 315 projects worth more than $62.4 billion. The World Bank Group is committed to leveraging data, research, and technology to create innovative solutions that address global challenges, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, where it aims to harness the continent's potential and drive economic growth.

Job Overview:
The Urban Specialist position at the World Bank is designed for a candidate who will play a crucial role in supporting urban development and resilience initiatives in Senegal and the broader Western and Central Africa region. The selected individual will be responsible for both technical and managerial aspects of urban projects, focusing on enhancing infrastructure development and disaster risk management (DRM). This role requires a deep understanding of urbanization trends, the challenges faced by cities, and the need for sustainable solutions that promote economic opportunities for the poor. The Urban Specialist will work closely with various stakeholders, including local governments, community leaders, and project implementation units, to ensure effective program supervision and implementation. The position emphasizes the importance of cross-sector collaboration and the integration of social, environmental, and gender considerations into urban planning and development processes. The candidate will also contribute to policy dialogue and capacity-building efforts aimed at strengthening local governance and enhancing the delivery of urban services.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Urban Specialist will be based in Dakar, Senegal, and will report to the Practice Manager of the Infrastructure Vice Presidency. Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting or co-leading the preparation and implementation of urban development projects and programs, including drafting and reviewing operational documents and coordinating with team members across various functions such as procurement and financial management.
• Participating in missions and supervising Bank-financed projects as a technical expert or co-Task Team Leader, engaging with clients at both operational and policy levels.
• Contributing to analytical studies and Trust Fund activities related to urban infrastructure, planning, and disaster risk management.
• Engaging in sector policy dialogue and institutional reforms, focusing on enhancing client capacity and exploring private sector engagement opportunities.
• Assisting in the development of URL strategies and fostering collaboration across practices, particularly in areas such as climate resilience and gender considerations.
• Managing Trust Fund activities, including proposal development and consultant procurement, while ensuring compliance with Bank operational policies.
• Facilitating knowledge sharing and awareness-raising activities among Bank staff and clients, and participating in training and learning events.
• Working independently while seeking guidance on complex projects and issues from lead specialists.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Urban Specialist position must possess an advanced degree (Masters level or higher) in engineering, urban development, economics, finance, or a related discipline relevant to urban development. Additionally, a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in infrastructure sectors, including urban development, transport, or water and sanitation, is required. Candidates should demonstrate expertise in at least three of the following areas: urban policy and planning, financing urban services, flood risk management, decentralization reforms, and procurement and contract management. Operational experience in investment project preparation and implementation is essential, along with the ability to engage effectively with local communities and decision-makers. Strong analytical skills and knowledge of World Bank operational policies are advantageous.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced degree, preferably at the Masters level or higher, in fields such as engineering, urban development, economics, finance, or other relevant disciplines that align with the urban development sector. This educational background is critical for understanding the complexities of urbanization and the associated challenges in developing countries.

Experience:
The Urban Specialist should have a minimum of 5 years of specific professional experience in one or more infrastructure sectors, demonstrating a proven ability to work on complex urban development projects. This experience should include involvement in areas such as urban policy development, institutional reforms, and multi-stakeholder coordination in urban risk programs. Candidates should also have operational experience in preparing and implementing investment projects, showcasing their capability to navigate the intricacies of urban infrastructure development.

Languages:
Proficiency in both English and French is mandatory for this position, as effective communication with diverse stakeholders is essential. Candidates should possess outstanding verbal and written communication skills in both languages. While English and French are required, additional language skills may be considered advantageous but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The Urban Specialist position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 3 years. The role is full-time and based in Dakar, Senegal. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical and life insurance, paid leave, and parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. The selected candidate will be expected to demonstrate a strong sense of urgency, thoughtful risk-taking, and accountability in their work, aligning with the World Bank Group's core competencies.