Description

IFC—a member of the World Bank Group—is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. We work in more than 100 countries, using our capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries. In fiscal year 2022, IFC committed a record $32.8 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging the power of the private sector to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity as economies grapple with the impacts of global compounding crises. For more information, visit www.ifc.org

The Macro and Market Research Department (CGR), part of the Economics and Private Sector Development Vice Presidency, is a unique research team in charge of generating thorough analyses of global and country macro and market dynamics and risks; producing sector-specific analysis for IFC Operations; and contributing to the identification and operationalization of climate opportunities for the private sector in IFC’s client countries.

The department combines expertise in macroeconomics, financial markets, sectors, portfolio, policy and development trends. The team leverages IFC operational and industry knowledge and World Bank Group macro and sector expertise to provide a comprehensive view of global and country-specific industry trends and investment opportunities. The Department output includes: (1) global and regional outlooks on macro and market trends as well as their drivers to inform business and portfolio decisions, (2) country-risk ratings based on macro-economic, market and political developments and other credit monitoring tools such as BICRA and CICRA, (3) strategic asset allocation framework and recommendations, (4) in-house macroeconomic models such as the Medium Term Vulnerability Model and FX Models, (5) market research tools that support investment decisions, such as equity and FX valuation, commodity prices analyzes, capital flows, trade and debt monitoring, for sourcing, valuing and managing IFC investments, (6) applied fundamental research such as productivity, demographics and urbanization, and (7) industry research products such as valuation by sector, household surveys forecast, corporate, banking vulnerability and in-depth industry analysis.

We are seeking an experienced climate Economist to conduct sector analysis related to the role of the private sector in the climate transition and to lead coordination of IFC’s input on the World Bank Group’s Country Climate and Development Reports (CCDRs). This economist will lead a small team in producing country and sector analytics related to climate mitigation and adaption, for both internal and external dissemination. The person will lead the department’s engagement on climate-related issues with IFC Operations, including the Climate Business Department, Global Industries and country teams; the Economic Policy Research Department and the Development Impact Measurement Department within the Vice Presidency; and with World Bank counterparts.

Role & Responsibilities:

Climate-Focused Sector Analytics

• Coordinate and contribute thought leadership and analysis to IFC’s input on Country Climate and Development reports, working closely with economists and investment officers in IFC Operations. Liaise with World Bank counterparts to ensure private sector opportunities are well represented in CCDRs.
• Produce bespoke analytical research related to specific country and sector opportunities related to the climate transition, in coordination with IFC industry experts, to support IFC investment and advisory teams.  This includes impact of new green technologies, financial sector opportunities, the clean energy transition, and energy efficiency measures in the real economy
• Be a leading member of the Department supporting operations in the identification of opportunities, strategy development and business development for climate-focused lending and investing.
• Lead small team in the development of tools that facilitate cross country assessment of climate investment opportunities.
• Interact with World Bank and IFC colleagues focused on energy, transportation, and manufacturing sectors, as well as on financial markets and regulations relevant to climate-investments.

Selection Criteria

• Master’s degree or equivalent in economics, business or finance, with 8+ years of professional experience, and specialization in climate and sustainability; a PhD in the related field(s) is desirable.
• Demonstrated experience in a research or analytical role focused on climate mitigation and adaptation opportunities in developing countries. This includes country-specific competitive advantages, fiscal room to invest in climate, private opportunities for greening buildings, manufacturing production, climate-friendly transport, and energy efficiency, including in hard-to-abate sectors.
• Strong understanding of the private sector in emerging markets and developing countries, demand and supply trends and determinants and policy impact on sector performance.
• Broad familiarity with and interest in climate-related development issues, including adaptation and mitigation and the World Bank’s Country Climate Development Reports.
• Broad understanding of decarbonization trends and technologies as well as familiarity with climate-related regulation and incentives both at the developed and developing country levels.
• Strong data analytics and econometric skills to be able to build demand scenarios for different goods that are relevant to the energy transition (i.e. recycled materials, construction materials, electric vehicles, etc.).
• Familiarity with complexity frameworks (such as Harvard Growth Lab) to assess and rank sector opportunities, analyzing a country’s potential to move into different economic activities, or scale up sectors where a competitive advantage could be developed. Linking this analysis to green transition is key
• Excellent demonstrated written and verbal communications skills in English delivering macroeconomic and financial analysis and assessments; able to convey complex concepts and distill analysis to clear, concise messages.
• Proven teamwork skills and ability to work well within a multicultural team context, building on the synergies of different team members and their expertise, seeking opportunities to advance the financial and development objectives of the department and IFC, while respecting cultural differences.
• Extensive experience and knowledge of Microsoft Excel, statistical packages, and presentation packages.
• Ability to thrive under pressure and function effectively while managing multiple tasks simultaneously
• High level of attention to detail and capacity to deliver high-quality work, often against tight deadlines.
• Able to coach and provide guidance and training to junior members of the team.

World Bank Group Core Competencies

The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan; medical, life and disability insurance; and paid leave, including parental leave, as well as reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.

We are proud to be an equal opportunity and inclusive employer with a dedicated and committed workforce, and do not discriminate based on gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.

Learn more about working at the World Bank and IFC, including our values and inspiring stories.