Deputy Chief Economist and Director, Private Markets

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a unique global partnership consisting of five institutions, established with the mission to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. It is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, addressing the world's most pressing development challenges. The organization operates with 189 member countries and has over 120 offices worldwide, working collaboratively with public and private sector partners to invest in innovative projects and leverage data, research, and technology for transformative global change. For more information, visit www.worldbank.org.

Job Overview:
The Deputy Chief Economist and Director of the Private Markets Department at the World Bank Group will play a pivotal role in enhancing the analytical and advisory capabilities necessary to support private sector development. This position is designed to facilitate the influx of private capital and manage macroeconomic, market, and political risks in emerging markets. The successful candidate will serve as an economic advisor to the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA), bridging the global knowledge of the Development Economics Vice Presidency (DEC) with the operational needs of private sector issues. The role involves leading a team that provides research insights and development data aligned with the priorities of IFC and MIGA, ensuring that the organization remains at the forefront of development policy thinking.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The responsibilities of the Deputy Chief Economist and Director include setting and executing a joint economics research agenda for IFC and MIGA within DEC, prioritizing topics that are crucial for private sector investment, guarantees, and risk mitigation. The role requires advising IFC and MIGA management on macroeconomic, market, and policy issues that affect investment pipelines, portfolio performance, and risk appetite. The candidate will also provide quality assurance on major research publications relevant to IFC and MIGA, align DEC's global research with operational needs, and mobilize DEC networks and advisory capacity. Additionally, the position involves curating and commissioning research and flagship analytics pertinent to private investment and guarantees, promoting the creation and use of unique datasets, and leading the dissemination of research through various channels. The candidate will be responsible for mentoring and managing the private markets department, ensuring timely delivery of work programs, and maintaining data privacy protocols.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a PhD in Economics with a strong publication record in areas relevant to private sector development, finance, and development economics. A minimum of 15 years of progressively senior experience applying economics to private investment, financial markets, guarantees, or related policy work in emerging markets is essential. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated leadership as an economic advisor to senior decision-makers and a proven ability to translate research into actionable insights. Strong skills in building and utilizing datasets and empirical methods, exceptional communication skills for diverse audiences, and proven team leadership capabilities are also required.

Educational Background:
A PhD in Economics is mandatory for this position, with a focus on areas that intersect with private sector development and financial markets. The educational background should reflect a strong foundation in economic theory and its application to real-world scenarios, particularly in emerging markets.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 15 years of progressively senior experience in applying economics to private investment and financial markets. Candidates should have a strong track record of leadership and advisory roles, particularly in contexts that involve senior decision-makers and complex economic environments.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered advantageous but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
This position is an international recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 4 years. 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 being an equal opportunity and inclusive employer, ensuring a diverse workforce that does not discriminate based on gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.