Senior Water Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank is a global financial institution established to provide funding and knowledge to developing countries. It is dedicated to ending extreme poverty, increasing shared prosperity, and promoting sustainable development. With 189 member countries and over 120 offices worldwide, the World Bank collaborates with public and private sector partners to invest in innovative projects and leverage data, research, and technology to address pressing global challenges. The organization is particularly focused on water security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, with a significant portfolio of water investments totaling US$41 billion, and aims to achieve a vision of a water-secure world for all through its Water Department, which integrates various sectors such as agriculture, climate, environment, and social inclusion. The 2030 Water Resources Group (WRG), a multi-donor trust fund under the World Bank, works to enhance water security through private sector engagement and is structured around themes like water for food, environment, and cities.

Job Overview:
The Senior Water Specialist will play a crucial role in implementing the WRG Bangladesh country program, aligning with the WRG Strategic and Operational Plans. This position involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including World Bank management, country teams, and partners from the private sector, government, and civil society. The specialist will support the Accelerator program focused on pollution management and public-private partnerships, while also identifying opportunities for scaling WRG efforts in the region. The role requires active participation in the World Bank’s Water operational team, contributing to lending operations and analytics, and producing high-quality analytical products and technical assessments. Fundraising and partnership development are also key responsibilities, ensuring the financial sustainability of programs and effective budget management. The specialist will engage with WRG partners and contribute to enhancing the visibility and impact of WRG initiatives at various levels.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the implementation of the WRG Bangladesh country program in alignment with strategic plans, consulting with World Bank management and partners.
• Support the Accelerator program focused on industrial and municipal pollution management, engaging with WB, IFC, and MIGA.
• Participate in the Water operational team on lending operations and analytics, contributing to the Dhaka Water Security program.
• Produce high-caliber analytical products and technical assessments, ensuring quality assurance.
• Fundraise and develop partnerships to ensure financial sustainability of programs.
• Actively participate in meetings of the Water Global Practice and coordinate with relevant groups within the World Bank.
• Collaborate with the water team to align activities with World Bank priorities.
• Work with the WRG Communications team to enhance visibility and impact.
• Maintain close ties with WRG partners, particularly in government and the private sector.

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in a water-related field such as Environment, Economics, Finance, Engineering, Business Strategy, or Business Administration.
• Minimum of 8 years of relevant work experience in program management, financing, private sector development, public-private partnerships, or environmental issues.
• Strong understanding of the technical and policy drivers of the water sector and political economy of reforms.
• Proven track record in leading transformational programs and public-private partnership initiatives in water/sanitation/environment.
• Established networks among key stakeholders in the water, climate, and environment sectors in Bangladesh.
• Ability to work with senior leaders and technical staff in international organizations and government.
• Excellent teamwork and collaboration skills, with the ability to provide constructive inputs.
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills in English; proficiency in Bengali is desirable.
• Familiarity with current and potential WRG partners is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in a relevant field such as Water Management, Environmental Science, Economics, Finance, Engineering, Business Strategy, or Business Administration is required for this position. This educational background is essential to understand the complexities of water-related issues and to effectively engage with various stakeholders in the sector.

Experience:
Candidates must have at least 8 years of experience working at regional and country levels in areas such as program management, financing, business development, and public-private partnerships. Experience in water and environmental issues, particularly in supporting private sector-driven solutions, is crucial. A demonstrated ability to lead large-scale initiatives and engage with diverse stakeholders is also necessary.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English, with outstanding verbal and written communication skills required. Proficiency in Bengali is considered a desirable asset, as it would facilitate better engagement with local partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 2 years. The role is based in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and involves collaboration with various teams and stakeholders. The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan, medical and life insurance, paid leave, and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees.