Senior Transport Specialist – Railways

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank is a global development cooperative established to provide financial and technical assistance to developing countries. It consists of two main entities: the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and the International Development Association (IDA). Founded in 1944, the World Bank is owned by 189 member countries and is the largest development bank in the world. Its mission is to reduce poverty and support development by providing loans, guarantees, risk management products, and advisory services to middle-income and creditworthy low-income countries. The organization operates in numerous countries worldwide, focusing on various sectors, including transportation, health, education, and infrastructure. The World Bank aims to coordinate responses to regional and global challenges, leveraging its extensive experience and resources to foster sustainable development and economic growth.

Job Overview:
The Senior Transport Specialist – Railways position at the World Bank is a pivotal role that involves providing strategic leadership and expertise in railway-related matters. The specialist will be responsible for leading the preparation of high-quality knowledge products and advisory services, supporting regional teams in implementing railway policies and regulations, and contributing to the Railways Knowledge and Solutions Group. This role emphasizes the importance of private sector participation and mobilization of private capital in the railway sector. The specialist will work closely with various stakeholders to identify challenges in the railway sector and develop innovative solutions, ensuring that the World Bank's objectives in transportation are met. The position requires a deep understanding of the complexities of railway systems and the ability to influence policy dialogue at high levels, making it essential for the candidate to have a strong background in transportation and infrastructure.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Transport Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Strategic Leadership: Identifying key challenges in the railway sector and initiating solutions, including new products and financing modalities, with a focus on private capital mobilization.
• Operational Quality Assurance: Supporting the quality assurance process across the lending and advisory services project cycle, ensuring that global knowledge informs country engagements.
• Learning and Mentoring: Assessing technical skill gaps and developing training programs to enhance staff expertise in railway matters.
• Partnership and Outreach: Building relationships with internal and external partners to promote collaboration and resource mobilization.
• Fundraising: Contributing to the growth of resources and expansion of donors for transport trust funds.
• Representation: Acting as a spokesperson for the World Bank Group at technical meetings and events, and developing communication materials related to railway issues.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s or PhD degree in a relevant field, along with at least 8 years of relevant experience in the railway sector. They should demonstrate a strong ability to influence policy dialogue and have a proven track record of successful collaboration with country counterparts. Strong technical knowledge and experience in delivering complex analytical work on railways are essential, as well as operational and development experience in policy and investment lending. Excellent communication and representational skills are required, with experience engaging with senior stakeholders and external constituencies.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Master’s or PhD degree in a relevant field, such as transportation, civil engineering, economics, or public policy. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in the principles and practices of railway systems and infrastructure development, equipping the candidate with the necessary analytical and strategic thinking skills to address complex challenges in the sector.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 8 years of progressively responsible experience in the railway sector, with a focus on roles that involve policy dialogue, operational delivery, and stakeholder engagement. Experience in conducting complex analytical work and delivering results in challenging environments is crucial. The ability to navigate the complexities of international development and work effectively with diverse teams is also important.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English. Proficiency in additional languages, particularly those relevant to the regions where the World Bank operates, would be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a term duration of 4 years. It involves international recruitment, and candidates may be based in one of several locations, including Washington, DC, Paris, or London. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans, medical and life insurance, paid leave, and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees.