Senior Economist(Health)/Senior Health Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank is a prominent global institution established to provide financial and technical assistance to developing countries. Its mission is to end extreme poverty and promote shared prosperity by providing loans, grants, and expertise to help countries implement projects that improve their economic prospects and quality of life. With 189 member countries and over 120 offices worldwide, the World Bank operates in various sectors, including health, education, and infrastructure, making it one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing nations. The organization emphasizes sustainable development and works closely with public and private sector partners to address pressing global challenges.

Job Overview:
The Senior Economist/Senior Health Specialist position at the World Bank involves leading complex engagements in the health sector, particularly in Cambodia, which is classified as a lower-middle-income country. The role requires the selected candidate to serve as the task team leader (TTL) for ongoing projects and loans, as well as to prepare new initiatives and lead a significant technical assistance program. This position is crucial for enhancing health outcomes and advancing universal health coverage in Cambodia, where the healthcare system faces challenges such as low government spending and high out-of-pocket expenses. The candidate will engage in policy dialogue with senior government officials and collaborate with various stakeholders to implement projects effectively. The role also includes mentoring junior colleagues and participating in regional capacity-building activities to enhance knowledge-sharing across the sector.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Economist/Senior Health Specialist include leading ongoing lending operations and developing new operations, which encompass technical assistance and capacity-building activities. The candidate will engage closely with client ministries and internal World Bank teams to ensure effective implementation of health projects. They will also contribute to high-quality analytical and advisory services focusing on health service delivery and financing, engaging in policy dialogue with senior government counterparts to advance critical reforms. The role requires collaboration with development partners and support for other task team leaders in Cambodia, as well as participation in regional capacity-building activities and knowledge-sharing workshops. Additionally, the candidate will engage across the World Bank Group to align efforts and enhance health outcomes in Cambodia.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree equivalent to a Master’s degree in economics, public policy, public administration, public health, or a related discipline, or a medical degree, along with at least 8 years of relevant experience. A PhD in a related field would be advantageous. Proven abilities in engaging in policy dialogue with senior government officials, working collaboratively with development partners, and managing projects, particularly those involving World Bank financing instruments, are essential. The candidate should have a demonstrated track record in leading complex analytics and translating findings into actionable outputs, as well as in-depth knowledge of health financing and service delivery reforms relevant to Cambodia's health sector challenges.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced degree, such as a Master’s or PhD, in economics, public policy, public administration, public health, or a related discipline. A medical degree is also acceptable. The advanced education should be complemented by substantial experience in the health sector, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, to ensure the candidate is well-equipped to handle the complexities of the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in the health sector, particularly in leading complex engagements and managing projects. Experience in policy dialogue with senior government officials and collaboration with development partners is crucial. Familiarity with World Bank financing instruments and a proven ability to lead teams and deliver high-quality outcomes are also necessary for success in this role.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English, which is essential for effective communication and engagement with stakeholders. While not explicitly stated, proficiency in additional languages relevant to the region may be considered beneficial, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse partners and stakeholders in Cambodia and the East Asia and Pacific region.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a term duration of 5 years, and it involves international recruitment. The World Bank offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical, life, and disability insurance, as well as paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates regardless of gender, identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. The selected candidate will report to the HNP Practice Manager based in Bangkok and may have opportunities to take on leadership roles in other projects within the East Asia and Pacific region.