Economist

Job Posting Organization:
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is a global organization founded in 1944 with the mission to promote international monetary cooperation, facilitate sustainable economic growth, and reduce poverty around the world. The IMF has a diverse workforce, with employees from various nationalities, cultures, and educational backgrounds. It operates in multiple countries, providing financial assistance and policy advice to member nations. The organization is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment, ensuring that all staff members can contribute to its mission effectively.

Job Overview:
The Economist position at the IMF Offices in Europe, specifically based in Brussels, is a full-time local contractual role that involves a variety of tasks aimed at supporting the organization's engagement with European economic and financial policies. The economist will work under the guidance of the Director and senior staff, focusing on monitoring and analyzing economic, political, and policy developments across the EU and euro area. This role requires the economist to draft regular updates for headquarters, engage with policymakers, and contribute to research and empirical analysis. The position is designed for individuals who are proactive, resourceful, and capable of working independently while also being part of a small team. The contract is initially for one year but may be renewable based on performance and organizational needs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Economist include:

• Monitoring, analyzing, and reporting on economic, political, and policy developments across the EU and euro area.
• Drafting regular updates to headquarters to inform the IMF’s engagement on European economic and financial policies.
• Locating and studying relevant EU policy documents, proposals, and legislation, and reporting on them both orally and in writing.
• Building networks of contacts in Brussels, Frankfurt, and beyond to gather policy-relevant information and insights.
• Supporting senior staff by gathering and analyzing information, preparing impactful graphics and slides, and drafting speeches.
• Traveling within Europe to attend meetings, seminars, and conferences, and preparing event reports or minutes.
• Assisting with the design, organization, and execution of events and seminars.
• Conducting research and empirical analysis, contributing to notes and staff papers in collaboration with counterparts in Brussels, Paris, and at IMF headquarters.
• Assisting with office administration as needed and adapting to the needs of a small office.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Masters-level or equivalent degree in economics or a related field. They should have at least five years of relevant work experience in areas such as econometrics, statistics, or finance. A thorough understanding of economics and finance, knowledge of EU institutions and key policies, and familiarity with IMF-relevant macroeconomic issues are essential. Candidates should also have experience with data management and visualization software, excellent analytical and writing skills, and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to interact effectively with various stakeholders are also required.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Masters-level or equivalent degree in economics or a closely related field. This educational background is crucial for understanding complex economic concepts and policies that the economist will be dealing with in their role at the IMF.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of relevant work experience, which may include roles in econometrics, statistics, finance, or similar fields. This experience should provide a solid foundation in economic analysis and policy evaluation, as well as familiarity with the workings of EU institutions and macroeconomic issues relevant to the IMF.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with at least two years of work experience in an English-language environment. A working knowledge of French and/or other European languages is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time local contractual role based in Brussels, Belgium, with a competitive salary and benefits package. The contract is initially for one year and may be renewable based on performance. Candidates must be nationals or residents of Belgium or be able to independently obtain a valid work permit before starting employment. The IMF will not sponsor or assist with obtaining work permits. Shortlisted candidates will likely be invited for interviews in March, with the expectation that the successful candidate will start as soon as possible thereafter.