ET Consultant – Data Scientist/Applied Economist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group (WBG) is one of the world's largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries. Established with a mission to reduce poverty, increase shared prosperity, and promote sustainable development, the WBG operates through five institutions that work collaboratively to address global challenges. With a presence in 145 countries and over 182 offices worldwide, the organization focuses on investing in people, strengthening markets, and delivering scalable, data-driven solutions. The WBG is committed to addressing pressing development challenges, particularly in the context of job creation for the 1.2 billion young people entering the workforce in the coming decade.

Job Overview:
As an Extended Term Consultant – scientist" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Data Scientist/Applied Economist within the EAWF2 team at the World Bank, you will play a crucial role at the intersection of applied research and operational activities. Your primary responsibility will be to leverage data and analysis to inform decision-making processes that shape project designs, policy dialogues, and communication strategies with clients and management. This position is vital for prioritizing reforms within country programs, structuring lending operations to effectively reach underserved firms and households, and demonstrating the impact of the portfolio on job creation and private capital mobilization. You will engage in diagnostics and evidence generation, firm-level data analytics, narrative communication of results, operational support, knowledge synthesis, client and partner engagement, and financial sector monitoring, all aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of the World Bank's initiatives in the Africa West and Central Region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Your duties will include producing firm-level and macro-financial analyses to identify constraints to private sector growth, conducting analytics on large datasets, drafting analytical notes and background papers, contributing to the preparation and supervision of lending operations, synthesizing research findings into operational recommendations, preparing briefs and presentations for client engagement, and monitoring financial stability and access to finance developments in client countries. You will also be responsible for liaising with global teams to refine monitoring tools and methodologies, ensuring that technical findings are integrated into project designs, and maintaining alignment with the broader private sector development agenda of the World Bank Group.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a recently completed Master's degree (or equivalent) in Economics, Finance, Public Policy, or a related field, with a PhD being a plus. Additionally, 3-5 years of demonstrated experience in firm-level or bank-level micro-data analysis is required, which can be gained through academic research, internships, or prior work experience. Strong quantitative and analytical skills are essential, including proficiency in statistical tools such as Stata and/or R. Familiarity with impact evaluations and AI tools for data analysis is highly valued. A solid understanding of private sector growth constraints and financial sector development challenges in low- and middle-income countries is necessary, along with excellent written and oral communication skills in English and a working knowledge of French being desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in Economics, Finance, Public Policy, or a related field. A PhD is considered an advantage, as it demonstrates a higher level of expertise and research capability in relevant areas.

Experience:
The position requires 3-5 years of relevant experience in micro-data analysis, which can be acquired through academic research, internships, or professional roles. Candidates should have a strong foundation in quantitative analysis and a proven track record of applying analytical skills to real-world problems, particularly in the context of private sector development and financial sector challenges.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the World Bank. A working knowledge of French is considered a valuable asset, enhancing the ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
This is an Extended Term Consultant appointment for a fixed term of 12 months, with a probation period of 3 months. The appointment may be extended for up to 36 months based on performance and budget availability. The position is classified under local recruitment, and the World Bank Group emphasizes a culture of diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, or other characteristics.