Economics Analyst

Job Posting Organization:
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is a leading multilateral development bank that was established in 196

• Its mission is to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region. ADB is headquartered in Manila and is owned by 69 members, with 50 of them from the region. The organization focuses on supporting inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific by working collaboratively with its members and partners to address complex challenges. ADB employs innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard the planet. The organization is committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone is treated with respect and given equal opportunities, encouraging all qualified candidates to apply regardless of their background, gender, or disabilities. Women are particularly encouraged to apply for positions within the organization.

Job Overview:
The Economics Analyst position is based at the Sri Lanka Resident Mission (SLRM) within the South Asia Department (SARD) of ADB. The role involves providing critical economic inputs to country engagement and programming, macroeconomic surveillance, and analytical work. The Economics Analyst will support the implementation of loan and technical assistance (TA) projects, prepare knowledge products, and engage with various stakeholders. The position requires a strong understanding of the country's macroeconomic and reform priorities, as well as the ability to contribute to the formulation of the Country Partnership Strategy (CPS). The analyst will also be responsible for maintaining familiarity with economic and social data, contributing to macroeconomic models, and supporting the digitalization of internal processes. This role is essential for ensuring that ADB's operations align with the economic realities and needs of Sri Lanka, thereby fostering sustainable development in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Economics Analyst will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including:

• Providing economic inputs to country programming, loan, and TA pipeline prioritization, and policy dialogue based on macroeconomic and reform priorities.
• Supporting the preparation and quality review of documents for the Country Partnership Strategy (CPS) formulation cycle.
• Contributing to the preparation of the Asian Development Outlook (ADO) and its updates, as well as ad-hoc economic outlook updates.
• Maintaining and updating macroeconomic models, databases, and country economic indicators.
• Conducting economic analyses, forecasts, and regular macroeconomic surveillance.
• Supporting the digitalization and AI-enabled streamlining of internal macroeconomic monitoring and reporting processes.
• Contributing to the preparation of publications and knowledge products, including policy notes and working papers.
• Providing macroeconomic, policy, and coordination support to active and pipeline sovereign operations.
• Supporting outreach and partner engagement, including panels and policy discussions. 1
• Preparing briefing notes and management information for senior management and high-level engagements. 1
• Performing other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Economics Analyst position must possess a Bachelor's degree in economics, business and finance, or related fields. A postgraduate degree is considered an asset. Additionally, candidates should have at least 5 years of relevant professional experience, with a minimum of 2 years specifically in macroeconomic research and data analysis. Familiarity with the economic and social issues of Sri Lanka is essential. The role requires strong analytical, drafting, and coordination skills, including the ability to prepare concise briefing materials and policy notes for senior management. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to establish and maintain productive contacts with government officials, development partners, and academic institutions, and must be able to work effectively in a team environment. Proficiency in MS-Office is critical, and familiarity with statistical software and AI-enabled analytical tools is desirable. Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English are mandatory.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Bachelor's degree in economics, business and finance, or related fields. A postgraduate degree is advantageous and may enhance a candidate's qualifications for the role. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in economic principles, data analysis, and financial concepts, which are crucial for the responsibilities of the Economics Analyst.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience, with at least 2 years dedicated to macroeconomic research and data analysis. This experience should include familiarity with economic and social issues specific to Sri Lanka, as well as a demonstrated ability to conduct economic analyses and prepare reports. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of working in similar roles within development organizations or financial institutions, showcasing their ability to contribute effectively to economic policy and programming.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is required for this position, with excellent written and verbal communication skills being essential. While English is the mandatory language, familiarity with local languages may be considered an asset, as it can enhance communication with local stakeholders and government officials.

Additional Notes:
This appointment is open to both internal and external applicants and is classified as a local staff position, meaning it is only available to nationals and permanent residents of Sri Lanka. The position is a fixed-term appointment with the possibility of renewal, initially for a period of up to 3 years or until the Normal Retirement Date (NRD), whichever comes first. After the initial term, ADB may choose to renew the appointment based on various factors, including the staff's performance and the organization's needs. The position offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including housing and education allowances (if applicable), expatriate benefits (if applicable), a retirement plan, medical and health benefits, paid leave, and life insurance plans. ADB is committed to providing a supportive work environment and opportunities for staff development.