Are you a seasoned economist with expertise in human capital development and eager to work on impactful projects that shape the future of West Africa?
The African Development Bank (AfDB) is seeking a Senior Human Capital Development Economist to join their team in Cotonou, Benin.
This position offers an excellent opportunity to work on high-level development projects, provide policy advice, and engage with regional governments to strengthen human capital initiatives in Benin and across West Africa.
If you’re passionate about making a difference, continue reading to learn more about this exciting role and how you can apply.
The Role: Senior Human Capital Development Economist
The Senior Human Capital Development Economist will be stationed at the AfDB’s Benin Country Office. In this position, you will be responsible for supporting human capital development operations—including programming, lending, and portfolio management—not just in Benin, but across various countries in West Africa.
Position Details
- Position: Senior Human Capital Development Economist
- Location: Cotonou, Benin
- Grade: LP5
- Posting Date: 20-Sep-2024
- Closing Date: 04-Oct-2024
- Position Number: 50064101
As a senior professional in this role, you’ll work under the Benin Country Manager and the Sector Manager for West Africa and Nigeria. Your efforts will be key to developing Country Strategy Papers (CSPs) and designing bankable human capital projects.
Key Responsibilities
The Senior Human Capital Development Economist has a broad range of responsibilities, each focused on advancing AfDB’s human capital initiatives. Below are some of the key functions:
1. Conduct Technical and Sectoral Studies
- You will be required to perform studies that contribute to the preparation of Country Diagnostic Notes (CDNs) and Country Strategy Plans (CSPs). These documents will have a strong emphasis on human capital as a priority area for Benin and other West African countries.
2. Develop a Pipeline Program
- This role includes identifying and developing lending programs for human capital development projects. You’ll collaborate with various partners to create a pipeline of projects that are ready for financing and co-financing by the Bank.
3. Support Country Managers with Sector Expertise
- You will serve as a sector expert on human capital development. This involves providing technical assistance and policy advice to Regional Member Countries (RMCs) to ensure that human capital development is prioritized in their economic planning.
4. Manage Human Capital Project Portfolios
- As part of your responsibilities, you’ll oversee the portfolio management of human capital projects. This includes ensuring that these projects meet key performance indicators (KPIs) set by the Bank, such as timely execution and resource allocation.
5. High-Level Mission Support
- You will support high-level missions, contribute to the preparation of briefs for senior management, and take part in the implementation of special initiatives as needed.
Key Functions in Detail
As a Senior Human Capital Development Economist, your duties extend across multiple functions:
- Business Development and Dialogue: You will support country dialogue and business development missions led by sector and country managers.
- Economic Sector Work: Plan and manage economic research that feeds into Country Diagnostic Notes (CDNs) and Country Strategy Papers (CSPs).
- Supervision and Portfolio Management: You will monitor human capital development projects, ensuring they are executed in line with the Bank’s standards and timelines.
- Lending and Co-Financing: Facilitate partnerships with other multilateral banks and donors to increase the impact and scope of AfDB’s projects.
Required Competencies
AfDB seeks candidates with a blend of economic, administrative, and project management skills. Below is a breakdown of the competencies required for the Senior Human Capital Development Economist role:
1. Educational Background
- A minimum of a Master’s degree in Economics, Finance, Business Administration, Skills Development, Youth Employment, Entrepreneurship, or related fields.
2. Relevant Experience
- At least five (5) years of relevant experience, especially in economic planning, project management, or social development initiatives.
- Practical knowledge in fields like youth employment, skills development, and poverty reduction.
3. Analytical Skills
- Strong research and analytical skills are critical. You should be able to assess complex problems, particularly in areas like education, gender equality, skills development, and population growth, and come up with pragmatic solutions.
4. Sector Expertise
- You must have a deep understanding of human capital development challenges in West Africa. Familiarity with education systems, youth employment initiatives, and gender-related issues is key to making informed recommendations.
5. Donor Coordination Experience
- The ability to manage and coordinate with development partners such as bilateral and multilateral agencies will enhance your effectiveness in project planning and execution.
6. Communication Skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in French are mandatory. Knowledge of English is highly desirable, given the international context in which you will be working.
7. Tech-Savvy
- Proficiency in MS Office software and SAP packages is required for managing portfolios and compiling reports.
Why Should You Apply?
1. High-Impact Work
This role offers the unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in human capital development across West Africa. From tackling youth unemployment to improving education systems, your work will help shape the future of these countries.
2. Be a Sector Expert
You’ll be a deep sector expert, providing technical advice and influencing policy decisions in multiple countries. Your work will directly impact economic growth and social development.
3. Dynamic International Environment
The AfDB provides a multinational and dynamic working environment, where you will collaborate with professionals from various countries and sectors. This is an excellent opportunity for those looking to expand their experience in an international financial institution.
4. Contribute to Regional Development
By managing high-impact human capital projects, you’ll contribute to the broader development agenda of West Africa, helping countries address critical challenges like poverty reduction, gender equality, and youth employment.
How to Apply
If this role excites you, it’s time to prepare your application! You can apply for the Senior Human Capital Development Economist position through the AfDB’s official vacancy page. Be sure to submit your application by the closing date of 04-Oct-2024.
Eligibility Requirements
- Only applicants who are nationals of Benin or AfDB member countries with a pre-existing legal right to work in Benin will be considered for this role.
- AfDB does not offer work permits or sponsor relocation for this position.