Senior Public Sector Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group (WBG) is a prominent global institution established to provide financial and technical assistance to developing countries. With a mission to end poverty and promote shared prosperity, the WBG operates through a partnership of five institutions, leveraging funding and knowledge to address the most pressing development challenges. The organization has 189 member countries and maintains over 120 offices worldwide, making it one of the largest sources of funding and expertise for development initiatives. The WBG is particularly focused on sustainable development, working collaboratively with both public and private sector partners to invest in innovative projects that utilize data, research, and technology to create effective solutions. The South Asia Region, which includes Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, is currently experiencing significant economic growth, but also faces challenges such as poverty, exclusion, and environmental issues that need to be addressed to ensure continued progress.

Job Overview:
The Senior Public Sector Specialist position at the World Bank Group is a critical role aimed at enhancing public sector performance and governance in Bangladesh and Bhutan. This position is part of a five-year international appointment based in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and is integral to the country program focused on public sector reforms. The selected candidate will be expected to lead and supervise various operational and knowledge initiatives, contributing to the development of new strategies and analytical frameworks that address institutional reforms. The role requires a deep understanding of public sector dynamics, revenue mobilization, and state-owned enterprise (SOE) reform, as well as the ability to engage with stakeholders to drive improvements in service delivery and governance. The Senior Public Sector Specialist will also be responsible for providing thought leadership and producing knowledge products that enhance project quality and facilitate policy dialogue on public sector reforms.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Public Sector Specialist will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: leading and co-leading engagements in Bangladesh and Bhutan focused on institutional reforms and public sector performance; analyzing trends and emerging lessons in public sector governance; providing thought leadership and contributing to the development of knowledge products, tools, and data to enhance project quality; leading and contributing to technical inputs for analytic work and advisory services; supervising the preparation of analytical products and technical reports; supporting the corporate agenda through analytical inputs and monitoring of the Bank’s commitments on institutional reforms; and collaborating closely with Country Management Units (CMUs), Task Team Leaders, and sector experts to ensure alignment and effectiveness in public sector reform initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Senior Public Sector Specialist position should possess a strong background in public sector governance, with demonstrated expertise in institutional reforms and public administration. A proven track record of leading complex projects and initiatives in the public sector is essential. The ideal candidate should have excellent analytical skills, the ability to synthesize information, and experience in producing high-quality reports and publications. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are necessary to engage effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders, including government officials, civil society, and international partners. A commitment to the mission of the World Bank Group and a passion for addressing development challenges in South Asia are also critical.

Educational Background:
A master’s degree or higher in public administration, public policy, economics, or a related field is required for the Senior Public Sector Specialist position. Advanced degrees or specialized training in areas relevant to public sector governance and institutional reform will be considered an asset. Candidates should have a solid understanding of the socio-economic context of South Asia, particularly in relation to public sector challenges and opportunities.

Experience:
The position requires significant professional experience, typically at least 10 years, in public sector management, governance, or related fields. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to lead teams and manage complex projects, as well as experience working in developing countries, particularly in South Asia. Familiarity with the World Bank’s operational policies and procedures, as well as experience in engaging with government and non-governmental stakeholders, is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the World Bank Group. Proficiency in Bengali or other regional languages would be considered a strong advantage, as it would facilitate engagement with local stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of public sector initiatives.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a five-year international appointment based in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The World Bank Group is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of nationality. The compensation package will be competitive and commensurate with experience, and the organization offers a range of benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.