Lead Economist

International Finance Corporation

IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, is the largest global development institution with a focus on the private sector in emerging markets.

We operate in over 100 countries, utilizing our capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries.

In fiscal year 2023, IFC committed a record US$43.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging the power of the private sector to address extreme poverty and enhance shared prosperity amidst global challenges.

The IFC 3.0 strategy aims to stimulate more investment activity across emerging markets, particularly in Low-Income Countries (LICs) and Fragile and Conflict-affected States (FCS).

This strategy focuses on enhancing markets, developing impactful investment projects, and improving country/sector diagnostic capabilities to enable private sector growth.

The Country Advisory and Economics Unit for North, West, and Central Africa in the Africa Vice Presidency is now seeking a Lead Economist to contribute significantly to analytical and strategic outputs.

The ideal candidate should possess exceptional analytical skills, policy-relevant experience, expertise in private sector development, a track record of publications, and a collaborative spirit.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead and set the standard for macroeconomic analysis to support IFC investment operations.
• Monitor macroeconomic conditions in North, West, and Central Africa, identifying risks to IFC investments.
• Lead flagship publications requiring IFC's thought leadership.
• Provide inputs on economic topics, produce policy notes, and support country reports.
• Oversee the production of Country Private Sector Diagnostics and Country Climate Development Reports.
• Design reform advisory projects with strong analytical foundations.
• Facilitate knowledge exchange within IFC and mentor junior colleagues.

Selection Criteria:

• Ph.D. in Economics and 12+ years of relevant experience.
• Commitment to WBG and IFC's mission and values.
• Strong analytical skills in macroeconomics and sector analysis.
• Track record in translating analyses into programs supporting private sector development.
• Understanding of IFC project cycles and key products.
• Ability to build relationships and represent IFC externally.
• Experience in North, West, and Central Africa's economic context.
• Leadership qualities, results orientation, and teamwork skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English (French proficiency required).
• Experience in climate change issues is beneficial.

Sector: Nonprofit/Community/Social Services/International Cooperation

Role: Other

Working hours: 80-100%

Job type: Staff (Permanent and Fixed Term)