Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Georgetown
- Category: Economics
- Closing Date: 2026-07-17
Key Responsibilities
- Carrying out macroeconomic surveillance and policy analysis, including the preparation of macroeconomic assessments (especially fiscal and external sustainability analyses) and financing need forecasts.
- Leading the country-specific knowledge program for Barbados, contributing to the development of new tools, products, and methodologies.
- Collaborating closely with other areas of the IDB Group for the development of the country-specific knowledge program(s).
- Coordinating with Sector Specialists in the elaboration of sector studies, ensuring that those policy recommendations or sectoral and multi-sectoral actions reflect Barbados’s reality.
- Crafting, coordinating, and carrying out research on issues of importance to the economic and social development of Barbados and the Caribbean region.
- Sharing and promoting research and economic policy perspectives of the IDB Group, including CCB-specific perspectives with internal team members, as well as with clients using digital media, such as LinkedIn, X, Webcasts, Video Chats, Online Forums, and Massive Online Open Courses (MOOCs).
- Preparing periodic briefings for management and contributing to the promulgation of a data-driven decision-making culture. Providing technical guidance on the development of the country strategy and the programming process.
- Contributing to the work of the IDB Group in promoting comprehensive, multi-sectoral development solutions.
- Leading activities related to the analysis of economic, social, and political trends of Barbados and participating in strategy and policy dialogue between the Bank, the client, and stakeholders, in addition to the programming process by identifying operational opportunities and risks.
- Identifying research topics for the Bank’s dialogue and for the design and implementation of a joint country program.
- Coordinating the evaluation, preparation, and monitoring of progress and development effectiveness results of the Country Strategy.
- Articulating and participating in the dialogue with counterparts on policies and reforms in strategic areas identified by the Country Representative.
- Conducting dialogue with the private sector and with other relevant counterparts.
Requirements
- Education : Master’s degree (or equivalent advanced degree) in Economics. A PhD in Economics would be a plus.
- Experience : A minimum of four years of relevant experience, in addition to:
- Expertise in policy issues and development problems, along with a consistent track record to perform analysis of social, political, and economic conditions and risks, as well as to conduct applied research on economic development issues.
- Validated knowledge of economic development, with capabilities in research, blended finance, and motivation to be involved in operational work that drives impact.
- Languages : Excellent written and oral communication skills in English is required.
- Citizenship: You are a citizen of one of our 48-member countries.
- Consanguinity : You have no family members (up to the fourth degree of consanguinity and second degree of affinity, including spouse) working at the IDB, IDB Invest, or IDB Lab.
How to Apply
About the Company
The Inter-American Development Bank is an international development finance institution headquartered in Washington, D.C., United States. It serves as one of the leading sources of development financing for the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean. Established in 1959, the IDB supports Latin American and Caribbean economic, social, and institutional development and regional integration by lending to governments and sub-national agencies, developing new financial tools, creating enabling conditions for private-sector-led growth, convening and aligning countries around common interests, and bridging the region with the rest of the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific qualifications and educational background are typically expected for a Country Economist role at an institution like the Inter-American Development Bank, especially for a Guyanese applicant?
A master's or Ph.D. in Economics, Development Economics, or a related field is usually a fundamental requirement. Extensive experience in macroeconomic analysis, public policy, or international finance, particularly within a Caribbean context, would be highly advantageous.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities for a Country Economist based in Barbados, serving the Inter-American Development Bank?
Daily tasks involve macroeconomic monitoring, policy dialogue with government officials, and preparing economic reports and briefs. You would also contribute to the design and implementation of development projects and provide technical assistance to member countries.
What are the typical career progression and growth paths available for a Country Economist within the Inter-American Development Bank for someone starting from Guyana?
Successful performance can lead to opportunities for specialization in specific sectors or promotions to senior economist roles within the IDB, potentially moving to different country offices or headquarters. Gaining diverse experience across various economic issues and regions is key for advancement within such international organizations.
What kind of benefits package, including leave, medical aid, and pension, can a Guyanese professional expect from an international institution like the IDB for this role?
International development banks typically offer competitive benefits packages, including comprehensive health insurance, a robust pension scheme, and generous annual leave entitlements. These packages are designed to attract and retain highly qualified professionals globally.
How should a Guyanese job seeker best tailor their application for this Country Economist role, and what specific qualities or experiences does the IDB look for?
Emphasize your analytical skills, experience with economic policy analysis, and any relevant work in a regional or international context within your CV and cover letter. Demonstrating strong communication abilities, adaptability, and a commitment to development impact is also crucial.
How does the work culture and expectations at an international organization like the IDB in Barbados differ from typical professional environments in Guyana, and what adaptations might be needed?
While Guyanese professionals bring strong analytical foundations, the IDB environment often involves a highly diverse, multicultural team and a strong emphasis on international best practices and stringent reporting standards. Adaptability to a broader regional focus and sophisticated policy frameworks will be important for integration.
