Chief Economist

EBRD
London - United Kingdom
S: Competitive

Role Overview

The Office of the Chief Economist (OCE) is responsible for research and intellectual leadership on economic issues relevant to the transition region; macroeconomic analysis in support of EBRDs country work; and relations with policy think-tanks and academia. OCE implements research projects on topics of direct relevance to the transition to market economies and the Bank's purpose and strategy. It is responsible for various major external publications, including the annual Transition Report and also designs and implements large-scale surveys such as the firm-level Business Environment and Enterprise Performance Survey (BEEPS) and the household-level Life in Transition Survey (LiTS). OCE also supports the Economics of Transition, a leading academic journal in its field.
The Chief Economist provides thought leadership inside and outside of the EBRD on critical issues pertaining to the economic aspects of transition and development in EBRD's countries of operations. He or she is responsible for the formulation of the Bank's conceptual approach to and understanding of the transition process to market economies. The Chief Economist also provides intellectual guidance to the economist profession within the Bank.

The Chief Economist reports directly to the President and is a member of the Bank's management team, its Executive Committee, and its Strategy and Policy Committee.

This role will be offered as a 3 year fixed term contract, with the potential for renewal.

Key Responsibilities and Deliverables

Advises the President and other senior management members on economic issues pertaining to the transition region with strategic, policy, or operational relevance.
Leads the discussion about the transition concept and its relationship with the mandate of the Bank.
Participates in decisions led by the Vice Presidency for Policy & Partnerships on the translation and implementation of the transition concept into methodologies to measure transition impact at the country, sector, and project level.
Responsible for the Regional Economic Prospects as an overall publication and for presenting it to EBRD management and externally.
Oversees, in close cooperation with the Director of Research, the EBRD's firm-level and household-level surveys (BEEPS and LiTS); randomised impact evaluations, as appropriate; as well as the production of EBRD's research-based publications, including the Transition Report, EBRD's flagship publication.
Formulates OCEs Research Programme (in close cooperation with the Director of Research) and steers the long-term planning of EBRD research accordingly.
Provides thought leadership inside and outside of the EBRD on economic issues pertaining to the Bank's countries of operation. Fulfils this role through undertaking and presenting own research, representing the Bank at high-level external policy and academic conferences and workshops, publishing in academic and non-academic outlets, and maintaining strong links between OCE and academia.

Essential Skills, Experience and Qualifications

Ph.D. in economics from a major university and an excellent publication track record in high-quality academic journals.
International experience at a high level of responsibility in applied economic analysis, research and policy. Experience in working on the transition of countries to market economies is desirable.
Proven track record in an international environment of leadership, management, and team work. Track record of successfully managing a research group in a policy or academic environment.
An understanding of both the economic and political dimensions of the transition process towards market economies and democracy. Understanding of key policy and business issues, especially those directly relevant to EBRD's countries of operation.

Competencies and Personal Attributes

Good strategic thinking skills, an ability to translate concepts and general policy direction into workable and sustainable long-term strategies.
Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, and familiarity in dealing with the public and the media.
Strong interpersonal skills, including gravitas, diplomacy, tact and ability to build positive relationships by promoting co-operation and leadership by personal example.

Job summary