The World Bank is currently seeking to hire a Senior Intern Economist in Singapore for 2025, directly reporting to the CEAAE manager. This role is designed for a highly motivated and dynamic individual with exceptional analytical abilities, hands-on experience in policy development, a deep understanding of private sector growth, and a proven track record in applied research. The ideal candidate will possess a strong publication record and excel in teamwork and collaboration, key attributes for success in this challenging and impactful role.
This position provides a unique opportunity to contribute to the World Bank Group’s (WBG) mission by addressing complex economic challenges and shaping business strategies in the Asia-Pacific region. As a Senior Intern Economist, the candidate will play a critical role in both economic analysis and policy advisory work, while also supporting various operational and strategic projects for the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the broader WBG.
Core Responsibilities and Duties
The Senior Intern Economist will be responsible for a wide range of duties, primarily centered around providing high-quality economic analysis, contributing to business development, and ensuring effective coordination between various teams within the World Bank Group. The following outlines the key responsibilities:
Real-Time Analytics and Market Development
The candidate will be tasked with identifying and developing real-time analytics to help shape business strategies and create markets within the region. This may involve conducting macroeconomic and market analysis to assess risks and opportunities, as well as designing strategic recommendations that support both private sector growth and public policy.
Providing Input to IFC Investment Projects
A critical part of the role will involve providing timely and high-quality input on IFC investment projects, particularly in high-risk scenarios. This includes analyzing the country or regional context, assessing macroeconomic and market conditions, and identifying key policy issues and risks during all stages of the project life cycle. The Senior Intern Economist will also contribute to ensuring the strategic fit of projects, particularly those with private sector implications.
Contributing to Business Development and Research
Another essential aspect of this role is supporting business development efforts by providing up-to-date research and analysis to investment and advisory teams. The Senior Intern Economist will offer customized insights on macroeconomic trends, global and regional market shifts, and real-time issues affecting key sectors. This research will help guide business development efforts and ensure that the IFC’s interventions remain relevant and effective.
Supporting CEAAE Project Teams
The Senior Intern Economist will provide analytical support and advice to CEAAE project teams, particularly in identifying and delivering reforms that create private sector opportunities. This will involve developing actionable strategies that align with the goals of the IFC and the broader World Bank Group.
Leading the Preparation of Country Private Sector Diagnostics (CPSDs)
One of the key responsibilities is to lead the preparation of Country Private Sector Diagnostics (CPSDs) for selected countries. This involves coordinating with colleagues from regional and industry teams, as well as counterparts from the World Bank, to select strategic sectors and design data collection and analysis methodologies. The Senior Intern Economist will also be responsible for conducting deep dives into specific sectors, ensuring that the CPSDs are comprehensive and provide actionable insights.
Coordination Between IFC and the World Bank
The Senior Intern Economist will act as the focal point for coordination between the IFC and the World Bank. This includes contributing to strategic country engagement products such as Country Partnership Frameworks (CPFs) and Country Climate and Development Reports (CCDRs). The role also involves providing input to country and sector analysis, contributing to policy dialogues, and ensuring the incorporation of private sector reforms in policy discussions, particularly those related to World Bank lending programs such as Development Policy Operations (DPOs) and Investment Project Financing (IPFs).
Collaborating on Global Economic Diagnostics and Flagship Studies
The Senior Intern Economist will collaborate with the global economics and industry teams at the IFC to coordinate diagnostics and contribute to flagship studies. This includes performing macroeconomic assessments, tracking investment trends, and working on major studies related to climate change policies, decarbonization, and emerging technologies.
Supporting Senior Management with Analytics and Briefings
The role also includes providing front-office support to the Regional Director and the Vice President of the Asia Region. This will involve preparing economic analysis, providing updates on countries’ economies, and producing briefing materials for key meetings and events. Additionally, the Senior Intern Economist will work with the communication team to prepare talking points and presentations for high-level discussions, including conferences and media engagements.
Stakeholder Engagement and Mentorship
The Senior Intern Economist will facilitate consultations with a wide range of stakeholders, including development finance institutions, civil society organizations, and private sector enterprises. The candidate will also be expected to mentor junior colleagues, providing guidance and oversight on analytical work and operational projects, ensuring that the work produced meets the highest standards of quality.
Qualifications and Selection Criteria
To be considered for the position of Senior Intern Economist at the World Bank in Singapore, candidates must meet the following qualifications and criteria:
Educational Requirements
Candidates must hold a PhD or Master’s degree in economics. In addition to the educational qualifications, candidates must have at least 12 years of relevant professional experience, demonstrating significant expertise in economic analysis, policy development, and private sector diagnostics.
Expertise in Macro- and Microeconomic Issues
The ideal candidate must have proven expertise in both macroeconomic and microeconomic issues. This includes a deep understanding of macroeconomic diagnostics, public sector analysis, and private sector policies. Experience in private sector diagnostics, sectoral market analysis, and knowledge of regulatory frameworks will be key assets in this role.
Specialization in Thematic Areas
Candidates with expertise in specific thematic areas such as private sector regulations, climate change policies, or sustainable finance will be highly regarded. Similarly, specialization in key sectors such as finance, infrastructure, or energy will be beneficial for the role.
Experience with Economic and Financial Models
Familiarity with economic models, financial models, or econometric techniques is highly desirable. Candidates should be able to apply these tools to assess the impact of macroeconomic trends at both the global and regional levels, and their implications for specific markets and industries.
Strong Analytical and Communication Skills
The Senior Intern Economist must possess strong analytical skills and the ability to translate complex economic and policy analysis into actionable strategies, sectoral programs, or reform agendas. The ability to write quickly and concisely, as well as to communicate complex ideas clearly, will be critical.
Interpersonal Skills and Team Leadership
Demonstrated interpersonal skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within teams are crucial for success. The Senior Intern Economist will lead teams, mentor junior colleagues, and maintain relationships with a wide variety of stakeholders. The ability to manage competing priorities and adapt to changing circumstances is also essential.
Experience with Policy Dialogue and Lending Operations
Experience in policy dialogue, lending operations (including policy-based and investment lending), and delivering development programs will be highly valued. Familiarity with the World Bank Group’s country engagement processes, including contributions to CPSDs, CPFs, and CCDRs, will be an added advantage.
Application Process and How to Apply
The application process for the Senior Intern Economist position at the World Bank Group in Singapore is now open. Interested candidates can apply through the official World Bank Group careers portal. To apply, candidates must submit their updated CV, along with a detailed cover letter outlining their qualifications, experience, and motivation for applying for this position.
For additional details on the application process and to submit your application, visit the following official link: https://worldbankgroup.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/1/home/requisition/30400?c=worldbankgroup
As the role is highly competitive, applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as early as possible to ensure they are considered for this impactful and prestigious opportunity.
The Senior Intern Economist role at the World Bank in Singapore offers an unparalleled opportunity to contribute to global development and the growth of private sector initiatives across the Asia-Pacific region. With a focus on macroeconomic analysis, market trends, policy development, and strategic project support, this position is ideal for a highly skilled economist who is passionate about shaping economic policies and driving impactful changes in the private sector.
If you are an experienced economist with a strong track record in policy analysis and research, and if you are eager to contribute to the World Bank Group’s mission, this role offers a chance to make a tangible impact on global development. Apply today to be a part of this transformative opportunity.
