Vertical Chief Economist, Infrastructure

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a unique global partnership of five institutions established with the mission to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. Founded in 1944, the organization has grown to encompass 189 member countries and operates more than 120 offices worldwide. The World Bank is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, focusing on solving the world’s greatest development challenges through collaboration with public and private sector partners. The organization invests in groundbreaking projects and utilizes data, research, and technology to bring about tangible and transformative changes globally. For more information, visit www.worldbank.org.

Job Overview:
The position of Vertical Chief Economist for Infrastructure at the World Bank involves serving as the principal economic adviser within the vertical, reporting directly to the Chief Economist and Senior Vice President of the World Bank Group. The role is crucial in coordinating research, markets, data, indicators, and impact group services for the vertical. The Chief Economist will work closely with various departments and academies to enhance economic analysis and ensure that the DEC research program aligns with vertical and regional policy priorities. The Chief Economist will also be responsible for managing a small team, facilitating knowledge flows between DEC and the vertical, and ensuring that the best services and products from DEC support the vertical's objectives. This position is pivotal in driving the World Bank's mission to provide public and private solutions that produce scalable impact, particularly in the infrastructure sector, which is expected to grow substantially in lending and impact.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Chief Economist will have a wide range of responsibilities, including advising the Vertical Vice President and leadership team on economic risks and opportunities, leading and managing a small team within the Vertical Chief Economist Office, and providing quality control and oversight of analytical work. The Chief Economist will also lead research and flagship reports in collaboration with the DEC Research Group, assist in supervising the policy research program for the vertical, and facilitate the implementation of impact evaluations. Additional duties include promoting evidence-based policy and design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design, collating and disseminating development data, implementing protocols for global policy indicators, and ensuring accountability to both the World Bank Group Chief Economist and the Vertical Vice President for quality assurance of economic analysis.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a PhD in economics or public policy, with a strong publication record in themes relevant to the Infrastructure vertical. A demonstrated ability to leverage expertise both within and outside the World Bank Group is essential, along with a track record of published policy research and high-quality analytical work. Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills are required, as well as the ability to guide the research agenda effectively and contribute to knowledge sharing and capacity building.

Educational Background:
A doctoral degree (PhD) in economics or public policy is required for this position, emphasizing the need for advanced knowledge and expertise in economic theories and practices relevant to infrastructure and development.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in economic research and policy analysis, with a proven track record of high-quality analytical work and policy advice. Candidates should have experience in leading teams and managing research agendas, as well as engaging with stakeholders to influence policy debates effectively.

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 comprehensive benefits, 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 that all individuals are treated fairly regardless of gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.