World Bank MNA Fellow

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank is a global financial institution that provides financial and technical assistance to developing countries for development programs (e.g., bridges, roads, schools, etc.) that are expected to improve the economic prospects and quality of life for people in those countries. Established in 1944, the World Bank has grown to include 189 member countries and has a mission to end extreme poverty and promote shared prosperity. The organization operates in over 100 countries and employs thousands of professionals across various sectors, including finance, education, health, and infrastructure.

Job Overview:
The World Bank’s Finance, Competitiveness and Innovation team is focused on supporting Saudi counterparts through Reimbursable Advisory Services (RAS) aimed at economic diversification, private sector development, and strengthening regional institutions. The Fellow will play a crucial role in providing analytical and operational support across a diverse portfolio of engagements in regions such as Diriyah, Al Jouf, Jazan, Al Aseer, and Al Baha. This position is designed to offer the Fellow hands-on experience in development diagnostics and advisory delivery while engaging with both public and private stakeholders. The Fellow will work under the supervision of the Hiring Manager and receive day-to-day guidance from a designated lead Task Team Leader (TTL), ensuring that the Fellow's contributions align with the overall project goals and timelines. The role requires the Fellow to assemble evidence, assess constraints affecting businesses and investors, and translate findings into actionable recommendations, thereby contributing to the broader mission of the World Bank in Saudi Arabia.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Fellow will be responsible for a variety of tasks across different regions, including:

• Diriyah: Conducting analysis for the economic positioning and contribution framework, compiling sector evidence, organizing data on firms and employment, and documenting indicators and data gaps.
• Al Jouf: Assessing investment opportunities and constraints, compiling evidence on business support, and contributing to opportunity briefs and action plans.
• Jazan: Supporting investment-readiness screenings, documenting investment barriers, and contributing to investor tracking and learning materials.
• Al Aseer: Analyzing firms’ financing needs, mapping existing financing programs, and summarizing consultations with firms and financial institutions.
• Al Baha: Analyzing agrifood and tourism enterprises, compiling examples and consultation findings, and contributing to recommendations for enterprise support. Across all engagements, the Fellow will conduct research and analysis, engage with stakeholders, draft advisory outputs, and manage knowledge and deliverables effectively. Expected contributions include documented datasets, concise research notes, consultation summaries, and draft sections of reports and presentations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should possess strong analytical skills, with the ability to review and synthesize information from both English and Arabic sources. Proficiency in data analysis and the ability to prepare tables, charts, and analytical notes are essential. The Fellow should also demonstrate excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, to effectively engage with stakeholders and prepare clear records of findings. Familiarity with economic development concepts and experience in advisory roles will be advantageous. Additionally, the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and manage multiple tasks efficiently is crucial for success in this role.

Educational Background:
A graduate degree in economics, finance, business administration, or a related field is required for this position. Candidates with relevant coursework or experience in development economics, public policy, or international relations will be preferred. A strong academic background that demonstrates analytical and quantitative skills is essential, as the Fellow will be expected to engage with complex data and provide insights based on their findings.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have prior experience in research, analysis, or advisory roles, preferably within the context of economic development or public policy. Experience working with international organizations, government agencies, or private sector entities will be beneficial. The Fellow should have a demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team, managing projects and meeting deadlines effectively. Familiarity with the economic landscape of Saudi Arabia or the MENA region will be considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and Arabic is mandatory for this position, as the Fellow will be required to review sources and engage with stakeholders in both languages. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the region may be considered a plus, enhancing the Fellow's ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role, and the duration of the contract will be specified upon hiring. The Fellow will be expected to work closely with various teams and stakeholders, contributing to the World Bank's mission in Saudi Arabia. Compensation and benefits will be competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications. The role may involve occasional travel within the country to engage with stakeholders and gather data.