Resident Advisor on External Sector Statistics

Job Posting Organization:
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is a global organization established to promote international monetary cooperation, facilitate balanced growth of international trade, and provide resources to member countries in need. Founded in 1944, the IMF has grown to include 190 member countries, each contributing to the fund and benefiting from its financial assistance and expertise. The organization operates in various regions worldwide, providing technical assistance and policy advice to help countries achieve macroeconomic stability and sustainable growth. The IMF Statistics Department (STA) plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality and availability of economic and financial statistics, which are essential for effective policymaking and economic analysis. The Caribbean Regional Technical Assistance Centre (CARTAC) is one of the IMF's regional centers, focusing on capacity development in the Caribbean region, helping member countries improve their statistical systems and economic management capabilities.

Job Overview:
The Resident Advisor on External Sector Statistics (ESS) will be responsible for developing statistical capacities among CARTAC member countries to compile and disseminate ESS in accordance with the Balance of Payments and International Investment Position Manual, sixth edition (BPM6), while also preparing for the transition to BPM

• This position requires a collaborative approach, as the advisor will work closely with the CARTAC team and the Balance of Payments Division at the IMF Headquarters. The role is designed to strengthen the ability of member countries to produce accurate and reliable ESS, which is vital for informed decision-making. The advisor will engage in various activities, including organizing technical assistance missions and regional workshops, managing short-term expert missions, and fostering collaboration among government and regional agencies. The position is expected to commence in April 2027, allowing for a brief overlap with the current advisor to ensure a smooth transition.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Resident Advisor will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Organizing and delivering technical assistance missions and regional workshops in ESS, both in-person and virtually.
• Managing and providing support for short-term experts' technical assistance missions focused on balance of payments, international investment position (IIP), external debt, international reserves, remittances, and other ESS.
• Facilitating collaborative activities among government and regional agencies to enhance the development of ESS.
• Coordinating technical assistance activities with the Balance of Payments Division (STABP) and other relevant IMF departments, as well as international and regional agencies involved in capacity development in ESS.
• Maintaining the IMF’s Results-Based Management (RBM) log frames that outline program objectives and specific outputs for CARTAC members.
• Collaborating with other CARTAC resident advisors to build synergies across different IMF capacity development areas supported by CARTAC.
• Reporting to the CARTAC Director and working under the technical direction of STABP.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a post-graduate university degree in a relevant discipline such as statistics, economics, finance, business administration, or mathematics. A proven record of strong analytical and technical skills in ESS compilation and methodology is essential. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of 10 years of practical experience in compiling and disseminating balance of payments, IIP, and external debt statistics. Experience in negotiating with country authorities, strong influencing and interpersonal skills, and a results-driven mindset are also required. Proficiency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory, along with a willingness to travel extensively to CARTAC member countries. The ability to develop and maintain effective relationships with senior national authorities and transfer technical knowledge is crucial. Experience in organizing training courses and workshops, project management skills, familiarity with results-based management, and knowledge of macro-relevant external sector issues specific to the region are strong assets. Familiarity with emerging topics in BPM7 and 2025 SNA, such as globalization, digital economy, and climate-related issues, would be advantageous.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should have a post-graduate university degree in a relevant field. This could include disciplines such as statistics, economics, finance, business administration, or mathematics. The educational background should provide a strong foundation in analytical and technical skills necessary for the role, particularly in the context of external sector statistics and their compilation methodologies.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of practical experience in the field of external sector statistics, specifically in compiling and disseminating balance of payments, international investment position, and external debt statistics. Candidates should have a demonstrated history of working with country authorities and engaging in negotiations related to statistical practices. Experience in capacity development, particularly in a regional context, is highly valued, as is familiarity with the challenges and opportunities faced by Caribbean nations in the realm of external sector statistics.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the IMF and among member countries. Strong oral and written communication skills in English are essential for effectively conveying technical information and collaborating with stakeholders. While English is the required language, knowledge of additional languages relevant to the Caribbean region could be considered an asset, enhancing the advisor's ability to engage with diverse member countries.

Additional Notes:
The initial appointment for the Resident Advisor position is for one year, with the possibility of extensions based on performance, business needs, and funding availability. The position is full-time and will be based in Bridgetown, Barbados, where CARTAC is located. The IMF is committed to diversity and inclusion in its hiring practices and welcomes requests for reasonable accommodations for disabilities during the selection process. Information on how to request accommodations will be provided during the application process.