Senior Agriculture Economist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group (WBG) is a global development cooperative established to provide financial and technical assistance to developing countries. It consists of five specialized 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 the Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID). The organization is committed to reducing poverty and promoting shared prosperity, operating in 189 member countries. The World Bank is the largest development bank in the world, providing loans, guarantees, risk management products, and advisory services to middle-income and creditworthy low-income countries. The WBG has a significant presence in Western and Central Africa, with a portfolio of 302 projects totaling over $56.4 billion, focusing on various sectors including agriculture, trade, transport, energy, education, health, water, and sanitation. The mission of the World Bank is to end extreme poverty and promote shared prosperity, particularly in regions where the majority of the world's extreme poor reside, such as Sub-Saharan Africa.

Job Overview:
The Senior Agriculture Economist will play a crucial role in leading the delivery of the World Bank's work program in Côte d'Ivoire, particularly in alignment with the new WBG Agri Connect initiative. This position requires a professional who can lead task teams in delivering impactful projects and strategic advisory and analytical tasks. The Senior Agriculture Economist will work closely with the Practice Manager, Division Director, and the Côte d'Ivoire Country Team to ensure that agricultural food systems are effectively integrated into country programs. The role involves designing innovative solutions to create jobs in agriculture value chains, contributing to strategic agricultural policy reforms, and engaging with clients and stakeholders to represent the Agriculture and Food team at relevant events. The position demands a high level of technical guidance and the ability to manage complex development issues across the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Agriculture Economist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including: leading the design, preparation, and supervision of operation projects as Task Team Leader (TTL) or core team member; providing technical guidance to position agriculture food systems in country programs; leading or contributing to advisory and analytical activities; engaging in strategic policy reforms dialogue with clients; ensuring integration of agriculture interventions in Planet programs; actively engaging with clients, stakeholders, and development partners; serving as the focal point for Farming and Agribusiness in Côte d'Ivoire; responding to ad-hoc information requests; and mentoring and supporting the task team involved in the Farming and Agribusiness program.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate professional excellence and possess outstanding oral and written communication skills. They should have a strong client focus and the ability to identify problems and translate knowledge into innovative solutions. Specific qualifications include a master’s degree in agricultural and resource economics, agribusiness, agriculture, or a closely related discipline, along with at least 8 years of relevant professional experience in agriculture, agribusiness, and food systems. Candidates should also have strong technical and analytical skills, the capacity to lead discussions on policy reforms, and in-depth knowledge of issues faced by smallholders in agricultural value chains.

Educational Background:
A master’s degree in agricultural and resource economics, agribusiness, agriculture, or a closely related discipline is required for this position. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to address complex agricultural and economic issues effectively.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 8 years of relevant professional experience in agriculture, agribusiness, and related disciplines. This experience should include a proven track record of leading projects, engaging with stakeholders, and contributing to policy reforms in the agricultural sector. The ability to work under pressure and in challenging conditions is also essential, along with a willingness to travel extensively as required by the role.

Languages:
The mandatory languages for this position are English and French, as effective communication in both languages is crucial for engaging with diverse stakeholders and clients. Additionally, proficiency in Portuguese is considered a preferred language, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate in a broader context within the region.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an international recruitment role 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 diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates regardless of gender, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. The role is full-time and may involve extensive travel to various locations within the region.