Trade Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group 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 funding, knowledge, and expertise to address the most pressing development challenges. With 189 member countries and over 120 offices worldwide, the World Bank Group operates in various sectors, including education, health, infrastructure, and trade. It collaborates with public and private sector partners to invest in innovative projects and leverage data and research to create sustainable solutions for global issues. The organization is committed to fostering economic growth and improving living standards in developing nations, making it a vital player in international development.

Job Overview:
The Trade Specialist position is situated within the Trade Policy and Facilitation Unit (WKPTT) of the World Bank Group's Prosperity Vice-Presidency. This role is crucial for enhancing the organization's digital trade initiatives, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The successful candidate will engage in analytical and technical assistance projects, focusing on digital trade issues, which include advising countries on increasing their participation in international trade of digital services and e-commerce. The position requires a proactive approach to developing knowledge products, conducting research, and collaborating with various stakeholders to ensure effective policy implementation. The Trade Specialist will also play a key role in supporting the World Bank's lending operations related to digital trade, thereby contributing to the broader mission of promoting sustainable economic growth and development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Trade Specialist will have a diverse set of responsibilities aimed at strengthening the World Bank Group's digital trade program. Key duties include:

• Contributing to analytical studies and producing regional and country reports on digital trade policies and regulatory practices.
• Engaging in Development Policy Lending Operations and Investment Lending Operations, focusing on cross-border transactions related to digital services and e-commerce.
• Assisting in the creation of new knowledge products, including maintaining the Digital Trade Regulatory Readiness database and developing analytical toolkits.
• Supporting regional teams by participating in policy dialogues with client countries and contributing to lending projects.
• Preparing briefs, presentations, and policy notes for various audiences, ensuring effective communication of complex ideas.
• Participating in knowledge-sharing activities and organizing dissemination events, workshops, and conferences.
• Expanding partnerships with other units and international organizations involved in the digital economy.
• Supporting the Practice Manager with quality control of deliverables and administration of trade-related trust funds.
• Overseeing the work of junior team members and consultants, providing guidance and mentorship. 1
• Presenting the team's work at knowledge exchange events, showcasing the impact of the World Bank's initiatives in digital trade.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Trade Specialist position must possess a Master's or advanced degree in relevant fields such as law, economics, trade, business administration, or international relations. Additionally, a minimum of five years of professional experience in digital trade issues is required. Applicants should demonstrate expertise in the governance framework for digital trade, including knowledge of domestic regulations and international agreements. Familiarity with policies related to electronic documents, consumer protection, electronic payments, privacy, and data protection is essential. Candidates should also have a proven track record in developing knowledge products and advancing policymakers on regulations relevant to cross-border trade in the digital sector. Strong analytical skills, both quantitative and qualitative, are necessary for conducting independent research and proposing practical solutions to policy challenges. Experience with data management tools such as Tableau, R, or Python is preferred, along with the ability to work effectively in a team environment under tight deadlines.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Trade Specialist role includes a Master's or advanced degree in fields pertinent to trade and economics, such as law, economics, business administration, or international relations. This advanced education is crucial for understanding the complexities of digital trade and the regulatory environment surrounding it. Candidates should have a solid foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of trade policy, which will enable them to contribute effectively to the World Bank's initiatives in this area.

Experience:
The position requires at least five years of relevant professional experience specifically focused on digital trade issues. Candidates should have demonstrated expertise in navigating the complexities of digital trade governance, including experience in developing and implementing policies that facilitate cross-border trade in digital services. Proven experience in conducting policy-relevant research and engaging with policymakers is essential, as is the ability to manage multiple priorities and work under pressure. Familiarity with the operational aspects of international organizations and trade-related trust funds will be advantageous.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirement for this position is English, as it is the primary language of communication within the World Bank Group. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered a valuable asset, particularly if they are relevant to the regions where the World Bank operates. However, the primary focus remains on strong English communication skills, both written and oral, to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders and present complex information clearly.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an international recruitment opportunity with a term duration of three years. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans, medical and life insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. The role may require extensive travel, including to remote and conflict-affected areas, depending on project needs. Candidates should be prepared for the demands of working in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, where they will be expected to contribute to the World Bank's mission of promoting sustainable development and reducing poverty.