Vertical Chief Economist, Prosperity

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 include 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, investment in groundbreaking projects, and the use of data, research, and technology to bring about transformative changes globally. For more information, visit www.worldbank.org.

Job Overview:
The position of Vertical Chief Economist for Prosperity at the World Bank involves serving as the principal economic adviser within the vertical, directly reporting to the WBG Chief Economist and DEC Senior Vice President, while also maintaining a dotted reporting line to the WBG Prosperity Vice President. The Chief Economist will coordinate DEC Research, Markets, Data, Indicators, and Impact Group services for the vertical, work with various departments to enhance economic analysis, and ensure alignment of DEC research programs with vertical and regional policy priorities. This role is crucial in facilitating knowledge flows between DEC and the vertical, ensuring that the best services and products are utilized to support the vertical's objectives. The Chief Economist will also be responsible for leading a small team, managing research initiatives, and promoting evidence-based policy design, ultimately contributing to the World Bank's mission of fostering growth and reducing poverty.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Vertical Chief Economist include 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, providing quality control and oversight of analytical work, leading research and flagship reports in collaboration with DECRG, assisting the DEC Research Director in supervising DEC’s research for the vertical, facilitating implementation of impact evaluations, promoting evidence-based policy and 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 and related priorities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a PhD in economics or public policy with a strong publication record in relevant themes covered by the Prosperity vertical. They should demonstrate the ability to leverage expertise within and outside the World Bank Group, have a track record of published policy research and high-quality analytical work, and possess strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills. The effectiveness of the candidate in guiding the research agenda of the DEC research team and their contribution to knowledge sharing and capacity building will also be evaluated.

Educational Background:
A PhD in economics or public policy is required for this position, emphasizing the importance of advanced knowledge and research capabilities in the field. The educational background should reflect a strong foundation in economic theory, quantitative analysis, and policy evaluation, which are critical for the role of Chief Economist.

Experience:
Candidates should have significant experience in economic research and policy analysis, particularly in the context of developing economies. A proven track record of leadership in managing research teams and projects, as well as experience in engaging with stakeholders and influencing policy debates, is essential. The ideal candidate will have experience in producing high-quality analytical work and policy advice that has had a tangible impact on development outcomes.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English. Proficiency in additional languages would be considered a plus, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to the World Bank's global initiatives.

Additional Notes:
This position is an international recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 4 years. The role is full-time and involves managing a small team of 4-5 staff members. 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 a diverse and dedicated workforce.