Director, Private Market and Deputy Chief Economist (IFC/MIGA)

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group (WBG) is a global partnership consisting of five institutions: the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), the International Development Association (IDA), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA), and the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID). Established with the mission to eradicate extreme poverty and promote shared prosperity on a livable planet, the WBG is one of the largest sources of financing and knowledge for developing countries. It operates in 189 member countries and has over 120 offices worldwide, leveraging data, research, and technology to deliver impactful results in addressing critical development challenges. For more information, visit www.worldbankgroup.org.

Job Overview:
The World Bank Group Chief Economist is seeking a Deputy Chief Economist for the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA). This role is pivotal in enhancing analytical and advisory capabilities to foster private sector development, attract private capital, and manage macroeconomic, market, and political risks in emerging markets. The selected candidate will act as the principal economic advisor to both IFC and MIGA, bridging the global knowledge from the Development Economics (DEC) department with operational needs. The position involves leading a team that provides essential market intelligence aligned with the priorities of IFC and MIGA, ensuring that economic insights are effectively integrated into strategic decision-making processes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The responsibilities of the Director, Private Market and Deputy Chief Economist include: setting and executing a joint economics agenda for IFC and MIGA within DEC, prioritizing topics crucial for private sector investment and risk mitigation; serving as the principal economic advisor on macroeconomic, market, and policy issues that influence investment pipelines and portfolio performance; establishing review standards and ensuring quality assurance for economic inputs to strategies and major publications; aligning DEC’s global research with operational needs; advising on country and sector prioritization and thematic strategies; directing a market intelligence function to track risks and opportunities; curating research relevant to private investment; promoting the use of unique datasets and indicators; leading dissemination efforts through various channels; mentoring a diverse team of economists and analysts; and managing resources effectively to deliver on the agreed work program.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a PhD in Economics (or equivalent) with a strong publication record in areas pertinent to private sector development, finance, and development economics. A minimum of 15 years of progressively senior experience in applying economics to private investment and financial markets in emerging markets is required. Demonstrated leadership as an economic advisor to senior decision-makers and the ability to translate research into actionable insights are essential. A strong track record in building and utilizing datasets and empirical methods, along with exceptional communication skills for diverse audiences, is necessary. Proven team leadership and management skills across matrixed organizations, as well as strong collaboration abilities within academia and international financial institutions, are also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a PhD in Economics or an equivalent qualification. This advanced degree should be complemented by a robust publication record in relevant fields such as private sector development, finance, and development economics, showcasing the candidate's expertise and contributions to the field.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 15 years of progressively senior experience in applying economic principles to private investment, financial markets, guarantees, or related policy work, particularly in emerging markets. This extensive experience should demonstrate the candidate's ability to lead and advise on complex economic issues and translate research findings into practical applications that drive investment and development outcomes.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English. Proficiency in additional languages is preferred but not explicitly required, as the focus is primarily on English communication skills for effective interaction with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a headquarters-based position located in Washington, DC, with international travel required as business needs dictate. The appointment will be a fixed-term contract consistent with World Bank Group policies, unless the selected candidate is a current WBG staff member on a Regular or Open Ended appointment, in which case they will retain that status. The World Bank Group emphasizes a culture of urgency, thoughtful risk-taking, empowerment, and accountability, and values diversity in its workforce, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates, particularly from Sub-Saharan African and Caribbean nationals, as well as female candidates.