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 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 end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity as economies grapple with the impacts of global compounding crises. For more information, visit http://www.ifc.org.
The Economic and Market Research Department (CER) focuses on operationally relevant research on firms and private sector development in emerging and low-income developing economies. This includes overseeing country private sector diagnostics, working to identify the most impactful business opportunities, creating a series of reports, undertaking research for peer-reviewed journals, organizing conferences with academia, and providing analytical input to guide IFC’s strategy.
IFC is seeking an experienced Extended Term Consultant (ETC) as economics and business writer/editor to create and manage a new series of articles for external audiences on innovations and sectoral trends in emerging markets and the opportunities they present to private investors. This role will involve working with economists and investment officers from across the institution to turn ideas into sharp and relevant copy for a series of notes that will be disseminated through our digital channels. Key thematic areas covered include climate change and the energy transition, trade and trade finance, financial market development, digital technologies and start-ups, jobs, and gender equality. S/he will also work closely with designers, other editors, and communications officers to develop a product that influences investment decisions and raises awareness of private sector-led development. Time permitting, this editor will contribute to the broader stream of IFC economics reports.
The Editor will be a motivated and dynamic professional with extensive knowledge of economics, business, and finance, particularly as it relates to developing countries. S/he will be an excellent writer with a strong track record of publications. S/he will also be experienced in steering editorial projects through the production process and be comfortable negotiating with authors on how to make their projects more relevant and appealing to external audiences. The successful candidate will be expected to produce compelling articles and at times short reports that are aligned with IFC’s priorities, that readers can easily digest, and media outlets will want to feature. Ultimately, they should aim to develop the series into a must-read among development experts, policy makers, and international investors.
Candidates with a background in journalism or publishing are encouraged to apply. The position is based at IFC’s headquarters in Washington D.C.
Selection Criteria
• Advanced degree in Journalism, Economics, or a related field, with 8 years or more experience in editing economics and business research.
• Big picture thinker, while maintaining a sharp eye for details.
• Excellent writing, editing, and message development skills.
• Broad knowledge of current events and trends in emerging markets, including economics, business, policy and technology.
• The candidate should have a strong understanding of modern communications, including digital channels, social media, video and podcasts, and publishing trends.
• Proven ability to work cooperatively and collaboratively with authors and with colleagues across functional departments, geographies, and disciplines through collaborative leadership skills.
• Commitment to the World Bank Group and IFC’s mission and values.
World Bank Group Core Competencies
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.
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Note: The selected candidate will be offered a one-year appointment, renewable at the discretion of the World Bank Group, and subject to a lifetime maximum ET appointment of three years. If an ET appointment ends before a full year, it is considered as a full year toward the lifetime maximum. Former and current ET staff who have completed all or any portion of their third-year ET appointment are not eligible for future ET appointments.