Senior Education Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group (WBG) was established in 1944 and is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for development solutions globally. In fiscal year 2017, the WBG committed $59 billion in loans, grants, equity investments, and guarantees to its members and private businesses, with $19 billion allocated to concessional finance for its poorest members. The organization is governed by 188 member countries and operates out of 120 offices worldwide, employing nearly 15,000 staff. The WBG consists of five specialized institutions: the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), the International Development Association (IDA), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA), and the International Centre for the Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID). The MENA region, which includes countries like Iraq, has been a focus for the WBG, particularly in the areas of human development and education, aiming to support countries in achieving peace, stability, and economic growth through education and capacity building.

Job Overview:
The Senior Education Specialist/Economist will play a pivotal role in co-leading the development and implementation of the World Bank’s education work program in Iraq. This position is crucial for guiding the implementation of ongoing education operations and activities, such as the Education Operations Development Program (EODP-AF), and providing technical assistance in both general education and higher education. The specialist will be responsible for designing and co-leading analytical and technical assistance activities under the ongoing Advisory Service and Analytical program, ensuring that all activities are aligned with the goals of the Human Capital Project. The role requires close collaboration with the Iraq Education Task Team Leaders (TTLs) and involves engaging in a wide range of analytical, research, and operational tasks to improve the education system in Iraq. The specialist will also lead policy dialogues with various stakeholders, including the Government of Iraq, to ensure effective implementation of project activities and contribute to the overall educational landscape in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The primary responsibilities of the Senior Education Specialist/Economist include: co-leading the development and implementation of the World Bank’s education work program in Iraq; guiding the implementation of ongoing education operations such as the EODP-AF; designing and co-leading analytical and technical assistance activities; overseeing and tracking the timely delivery of projects; providing implementation support to the Ministry of Education (MOED) and the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MOHESR); co-leading the preparation of new education operations; leading policy dialogue with internal and external stakeholders; contributing to education and cross-cutting reports; identifying and leading new areas of analytical work in the education sector; and engaging in policy dialogue with government officials. The specialist will also be expected to contribute to other tasks as needed, including potential work on other countries in the region and preparing for new projects, events, and conferences.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in Education, Economics, or a relevant field. A minimum of 8 years of relevant professional experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience is required, particularly in education, higher education, and skills development policy, projects, and programs. Experience in supporting the Iraq education system is preferred, along with a proven ability to engage in policy dialogue on education and skills with clients. On-the-ground experience working in Iraq is also preferred, as is the capacity for organization and coordination, and the ability to work independently in a team environment. Successful experience working with cross-sectoral World Bank Group teams and a track record of forming trustful partnerships with external partners are essential.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in Education, Economics, or a relevant field is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of education systems and the economic factors that influence them, particularly in the context of Iraq and the MENA region.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant professional experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Candidates should have substantial experience in leading work on operational, technical, and policy issues related to education, particularly in Iraq or the Mashreq region. Experience in supporting the Iraq education system and engaging in policy dialogue with clients is preferred, as well as on-the-ground experience in Iraq.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English. Proficiency in Arabic is preferred, as it will facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of the role in the Iraqi context.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 2 years. The selected candidate will be offered a term appointment, and if they are a current World Bank Group staff member with a Regular or Open-Ended appointment, they will retain their appointment. The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all qualified individuals, regardless of gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability, are encouraged to apply.