Manager, Sovereign Risk

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group (WBG) is a global organization dedicated to addressing the world's most pressing development challenges. Established to reduce poverty and promote sustainable economic growth, the WBG operates in 145 countries with over 182 offices worldwide. The organization employs a diverse workforce that collaborates across cultures and disciplines to create innovative solutions for development. The WBG's mission is to invest in people, strengthen markets, and deliver scalable, data-driven solutions that improve lives. For more information, visit www.worldbank.org.

Job Overview:
The Manager, Sovereign Risk will play a pivotal role within the World Bank Group's Chief Risk Officer (CRO) Vice Presidency, which is responsible for institutional risk oversight across the organization. This position involves leading the Sovereign Risk Team, which assesses and monitors country credit risks and overall global and regional development trends affecting WBG countries. The Manager will ensure the delivery of high-quality country risk ratings and methodologies, oversee the country rating processes, and engage with external auditors. The role requires a strategic thinker who can manage a team effectively, drive technical excellence, and contribute to the organization's goals in a financially sustainable manner. The Manager will also participate in high-level meetings, such as the Paris Club, and prepare briefings for senior management, ensuring that the WBG's credit risk exposure aligns with its development mission and financial sustainability objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Manager will oversee the Sovereign Risk Team and its work program, reporting directly to the Director of the Credit Risk Department. Key responsibilities include leading the country risk rating work, ensuring high-quality delivery of assessments, and assigning internal credit ratings used by all WBG entities. The Manager will ensure that rating methodologies are robust and up to date, oversee the country rating processes, and manage discussions regarding individual country ratings. Additionally, the Manager will monitor global and regional development trends, conduct stress tests, and assess implications for country risk ratings. The role also involves monitoring countries vulnerable to crises, serving as Secretariat for the Short-Term Risk Monitoring Group, and preparing high-quality briefings for senior management. The Manager will contribute to IBRD Country Exposure Management processes and support country teams in managing exposures in line with the IBRD Exposure Management Framework.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s or PhD degree in Economics, Finance/Risk, or a related field, along with a minimum of 12 years of directly relevant professional experience. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in developing country economics and credit risk analysis, particularly in relation to private sector operations. A deep understanding of the factors affecting country credit risks, including IBRD and IDA’s Preferred Creditor Status, is essential. The candidate should also demonstrate strong managerial skills, the ability to effectively plan and organize teams, and excellent communication skills for various audiences, including senior management and the Board.

Educational Background:
A Master’s or PhD degree in Economics, Finance/Risk, or another relevant field is required for this position. This educational background should provide a strong foundation in economic principles, financial analysis, and risk management, which are critical for assessing country credit risks and developing sound methodologies and policy frameworks.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 12 years of directly relevant professional experience. Candidates should have a seasoned background in developing country economics and credit risk analysis, with a proven track record of managing teams and delivering high-quality work under pressure. Experience working in the World Bank or another Multilateral Development Bank (MDB) is highly desirable, particularly in country operations.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English. Proficiency in additional languages is preferred but not required, as the primary communication within the organization and with stakeholders will be conducted in English.

Additional Notes:
This is an open-ended staff position with international recruitment. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates regardless of gender, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. The closing date for applications is October 13, 2026, at 11:59 PM UTC.