Economist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a prominent global institution established to provide funding and knowledge to developing countries. It is a unique partnership of five institutions dedicated to ending extreme poverty and promoting shared prosperity. With 189 member countries and over 120 offices worldwide, the World Bank Group collaborates with both public and private sector partners to invest in innovative projects and leverage data, research, and technology to tackle urgent global challenges. The organization aims to improve living standards and foster economic growth in developing regions, particularly in the Europe and Central Asia (ECA) region, which consists of 30 diverse countries with a combined population of nearly 500 million. The World Bank Group is committed to addressing structural issues, enhancing productivity, and promoting economic inclusion in these countries.

Job Overview:
The Economist position at the World Bank Group is a critical role within the Economic Policy (EP) Practice, which leads the dialogue and engagement with clients on macroeconomic issues, fiscal policy, debt, growth, and trade. The selected candidate will be responsible for preparing and delivering Development Policy Operations, utilizing both IDA and IBRD resources. The role involves leading and participating in various client advisory projects, requiring a strong integrative function that enhances the core expertise of the EP team. The Economist will primarily focus on North Macedonia but may also engage with other countries in the region. The position demands a proactive approach to developing new engagements and collaborating with sectoral teams to address pressing economic challenges, particularly in the context of the ongoing Country Partnership Framework for North Macedonia, which emphasizes improving public service delivery, creating productive private sector jobs, and enhancing environmental resilience.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Economist will lead and contribute to policy dialogues with authorities in North Macedonia, focusing on development policy financing in collaboration with the Country Management Unit (CMU) and Senior Economist. Responsibilities include contributing to analytical and advisory products that support macroeconomic and structural reform dialogues, leading country-specific macroeconomic monitoring activities, and providing inputs for corporate briefs and due diligence on macro issues. The Economist will also engage in lending and advisory activities for other countries within the unit as needed, and work closely with other Global Practices on strategic and integrative engagements. The role requires effective communication with internal and external stakeholders and the ability to adapt to a variety of complex tasks to meet deadlines.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of a Master’s degree in Economics, along with five years of relevant professional experience. A completed PhD is considered equivalent to three years of experience. Strong technical skills in macroeconomic and growth issues are essential, along with a proven track record of delivering high-quality analytical work, particularly in fiscal policy areas such as tax policy, public expenditure, and public financial management. Advanced skills in economic modeling and data analysis are required to inform economic monitoring and policy analysis. Candidates should demonstrate operational and policy dialogue skills, integrative abilities to support strategic thinking on macroeconomic issues, and a strong sense of initiative and results orientation. Excellent oral and written communication skills are necessary, as well as the ability to work flexibly on diverse assignments.

Educational Background:
The position requires a minimum of a Master’s degree in Economics. Candidates with a PhD in Economics will be viewed favorably, as it is treated as equivalent to three years of relevant professional experience. The educational background should include a strong foundation in macroeconomic theory, fiscal policy, and economic modeling, which are critical for the analytical and advisory functions of the role.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least five years of relevant professional experience in economics, particularly in macroeconomic analysis, fiscal policy, and economic development. Experience in delivering high-impact work in countries undergoing economic transformation is a plus. The candidate should have a proven history of engaging in policy dialogues and working collaboratively across sectors to achieve strategic objectives.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and Macedonian is mandatory for this position. Candidates who possess additional language skills may have an advantage, although no specific preferred languages are listed. Strong communication skills in both written and spoken formats are essential for effective engagement with stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment role with a term duration of four 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 diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees regardless of gender, identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.