INTRODUCTION

The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) is seeking to recruit an Economist for the Research and Statistics Division of the Economics Department. The successful candidate will be based at CDB’s Office located in St. Michael, Barbados.

THE DEPARTMENT

The Economics Department is accountable for the formulation of country strategies to guide the Bank’s financial and technical assistance operations for the Bank’s Borrowing Member Countries (BMCs). It is also responsible for monitoring and analysis of economic, social and political developments in the BMCs; policy advice and reporting on relevant industrial sectors, social and environmental sectors; and training in economic management. The Economics Department also undertakes research in areas related to development and geared towards enhancing knowledge in BMCs and provides support to deliver reliable, timely and relevant statistics and updates macroeconomic forecasts to support country surveillance and policy design.

THE ROLE

Reporting to the Deputy Director, Research and Statistics (DDRS), the Economist, generates high-quality research that builds the evidence base for technically sound development policy solutions. The role contributes to thought leadership, informs the adaptation of Bank strategies and lending operations, and supports advisory services for improving sustainable development across BMCs and the wider region.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

The Economist will be required to:

Design and undertake country, sectoral or thematic diagnostics and/or applied research on development issues relevant to the Caribbean that are identified as a priority for CDB and BMCs, applying quantitative and qualitative methods including econometric techniques, and translating these analytical findings into relevant insights and actionable policy recommendations tailored to BMCs.

Lead and/or review and evaluate research work of consultants and research work outsourced by the Bank ensuring that these outputs meet the Bank’s quality standards.

Provide thought and knowledge leadership to guide CDB and regional development and to support the Bank’s policy dialogue in BMCs.

Contribute to developing the Bank’s research agenda and flagship publications.

Present research findings, engage in and support peer learning across departments, and assist with the design and execution of Bank seminars.

Support the development of plans for the dissemination of knowledge products and policy recommendations.

Assist with the preparation of reports, policy notes and briefs, working papers, and PowerPoint presentations.

Contribute to the development and implementation of new tools, methodologies, processes and/or policies that can improve development impact and development effectiveness.

Participate in the review of the Bank’s operation documents.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

The successful candidate must have:

At minimum a Master’s degree in Economics, Public Finance, Development Studies, Public Policy or other related field.

At leave five (5) years of relevant experience as a professional Economist.

Knowledge of statistics and quantitative methods utilizing econometric software such as Stata, R, EViews and SPSS.

FUNCTION SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES

The Economist must demonstrate:

Strong analytical aptitude and proven interest in research.

Strong grounding in applied macroeconomics and development economics.

Proficiency in economic modeling, data analysis, econometrics and policy writing.

Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office including Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.

The ability to adapt to a multicultural environment; strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work effectively both independently and in a team.

BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES

The Economist should demonstrate a strong proficiency in the following organisational core competencies:

Acting as a Champion for Change

Actively identifies problems and opportunities for change and implements solutions where appropriate. Maintains effectiveness when experiencing major changes in work tasks or the work environment; and supports people in their efforts to try new things.

Acting Decisively

Moves quickly to make decisions and commits to a clear course of action; comfortable making decisions based on partial information; willing to take risks in order to maintain momentum; shows a strong bias toward action.

Acting Strategically

Aligns day-to-day activities around broader organisational goals and objectives; prioritises resources based on the strategic objectives of the organisation; recognises and rewards people based on how their actions support the broader needs of the organisation.

Championing Customer Needs

Calls attention to issues that impact customer satisfaction; views situations from the perspective of customers; encourages people to think about customers when making decisions and develops and sustains productive customer relationships.

Communicating Effectively

Consistently communicates with clarity and thoroughness to optimise audience understanding. Communicates information in a clear, concise, and timely manner. Demonstrates effective speaking and presentation skills.

Delivering High Quality Work

Critically reviews work processes to ensure quality; addresses problems that could impact quality; makes sure project deliverables and services meet all requirements and expectations; does not make the same mistakes twice.

Displaying Technical Expertise

Keeps his/her technical skills current; effectively applies specialised knowledge and skills to perform work tasks; understands and masters the technical skills, knowledge, and tasks associated with his/her job; shares technical expertise with others.

Driving for Results

Bottom-line oriented and pushes self and others to achieve results. Keeps current on project status; makes sure people are aware of project status and what they need to do to keep things moving; redirects project resources and activities to overcome setbacks; elevates project concerns to senior levels ofleadership when appropriate.

TERMS OF APPOINTMENT

This role is a full-time position with the successful candidate being contracted on a two-year basis in the first instance, with the possibility of renewal. The salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience. The salary scale for this Grade 20 role starts at USD81,816 per annum net of taxes. The benefits package includes a pension plan, life and medical insurances.

Before you proceed to apply, please consider the following requirements:

You must be a national of one of CDB’s member countries.

You will be required to produce evidence of any educational and professional qualifications to support your application if you are selected for an interview.

All appointments are subject to satisfactory background checks and references.

CDB fully respects the need for confidentiality of information supplied and assures you that we will not discuss your background and interest with anyone including references, without your prior consent.

The deadline for submission of applications is June 15, 2026 at 11:59 pm AST.

The Caribbean Development Bank is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply regardless of their racial, ethnic, religious, cultural background, gender, sexual orientation, or disabilities. Women are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Bank provides reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities who participate in the job application or interview process. Please contact us to request such accommodation.