The Chief Economist at World Resources Institute (WRI) is a pivotal leadership role offering an opportunity to drive the global economic transition necessary to address climate change, protect nature, and ensure social well-being. This hybrid position, available across multiple countries, provides a unique chance to guide WRI’s strategic economic efforts in shaping green, resilient growth pathways. Apply for this impactful role in global economic policy today!

Background & Job Description

The Chief Economist at the World Resources Institute (WRI) is a high-level leadership role within one of the world’s leading research organizations focused on climate, environmental protection, and sustainable development. WRI is committed to finding solutions to the world’s most pressing environmental challenges, such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and water scarcity, while promoting global prosperity.

The Chief Economist will play a crucial role in driving WRI’s mission by integrating economic principles into the organization’s work across multiple sectors, including energy, food, land, water, and cities. The role focuses on leading the development of inclusive, green transition pathways, ensuring that economic systems align with the goals of a sustainable future for both people and the planet. This is a unique opportunity to shape policy and practices that will influence international climate negotiations, environmental governance, and socio-economic reforms globally.

The position requires an individual with significant expertise in environmental economics, sustainable development, and economic policy, who can translate complex economic concepts into actionable strategies for diverse stakeholders, including governments, private sector actors, and international institutions.

Chief Economist Job at WRI: Transforming Economic Policies for Sustainability and Climate Mitigation

Tasks and Responsibilities

As the Chief Economist at WRI, the key responsibilities will include, but are not limited to, the following:

Strategy and Thought Leadership (25%)

• Develop Economic Frameworks: Lead the development of economic strategies that promote inclusive green transition pathways. Ensure these strategies integrate climate change, environmental protection, and economic growth in a balanced approach.

• Guiding WRI’s Research and Analysis: Offer guidance on the integration of economic analysis within WRI’s core research areas, including cities, energy, food, land, and water.

• Strategic Advisory Role: Provide high-level economic advice to the WRI Board, Global Executive Team, and other senior leaders on how economic strategies can support the achievement of WRI’s environmental and social goals.

• Economic Leadership on Trade Policy: Lead the development of WRI’s position and analysis on trade policy, especially in the context of climate change and environmental sustainability.

Research, Data & Innovation (20%)

• Oversee Economic Research: Lead research on cutting-edge economic issues that directly align with WRI’s global priorities.

• Strengthening Economic Modeling: Oversee efforts to build WRI’s capacity in economic modeling, focusing on integrating climate and nature considerations into macroeconomic frameworks.

• Collaboration with Thought Leaders: Engage with academic institutions, think tanks, and global research organizations to ensure that WRI remains at the forefront of climate and environmental economics.

External Engagement & Collaboration (20%)

• Public Policy Engagement: Act as a thought leader and advocate for WRI’s economic strategies in international forums, including the G20, UNFCCC, and other global climate and environmental governance processes.

• Forge Strategic Partnerships: Foster relationships with key stakeholders in government, business, and civil society to amplify WRI’s economic agenda.

• Global Representation: Represent WRI at high-level international events and dialogues on climate change, sustainability, and economic transformation.

Leadership and Development of Economics Function (20%)

• Lead Economics Team: Lead and expand WRI’s economics team, ensuring that its members are equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to implement cutting-edge economic research and policy solutions.

• Mentorship and Development: Foster a culture of learning and growth within the economics function. Provide mentorship to junior economists and encourage knowledge-sharing across teams.

• High Standards of Excellence: Ensure that the economics team upholds high standards of quality, rigor, and relevance in their work, both internally and externally.

Fundraising (15%)

• Support Fundraising Efforts: Work alongside WRI leadership to secure funding for economic research and initiatives, particularly from foundations, donors, and other strategic partners.

• Build Donor Relationships: Cultivate relationships with institutional donors, government agencies, and private sector stakeholders to expand WRI’s funding base.

• Develop Funding Proposals: Lead the development of compelling funding proposals that align with WRI’s mission and strategic objectives in the areas of climate change and sustainable economic transition.

Qualifications

Education and Certification

• An advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in Economics, Development Economics, Environmental Economics, or a related field is required.

• Additional certifications in climate policy, sustainability, or economic modeling would be advantageous but are not mandatory.

Experience

• A minimum of 20 years of experience in economic analysis, policy development, or advisory roles related to climate change, sustainable development, or environmental economics.

• Proven track record in leading high-level economic research, especially in the context of green economic transitions and climate change mitigation.

• At least 10 years of leadership experience, with the ability to manage complex programs and guide teams toward achieving strategic objectives.

• Experience advising senior policymakers or government leaders on economic strategies related to climate and environmental issues.

Skills and Expertise

• Global Climate and Environmental Policies: In-depth knowledge of global climate change policies, environmental economics, and the transition to a low-carbon economy.

• Economic Models and Techniques: Expertise in advanced economic modeling techniques, including the integration of environmental and social factors into macroeconomic frameworks.

• Trade Policy: Strong understanding of international trade policies and their impact on climate and sustainability.

• Fundraising and Donor Relations: Demonstrated success in securing funding from institutional donors, foundations, and other stakeholders.

• Communication Skills: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with experience in presenting complex economic analysis to diverse audiences.

Additional Information

Global Engagement and Leadership

As the Chief Economist, you will have the opportunity to engage with a wide array of international institutions, including the G20, UNFCCC, Multilateral Development Banks, and more. Your work will contribute directly to shaping the global discourse on climate change, environmental policy, and economic transition.

Hybrid Work Environment

This position is hybrid, with a requirement to be in the office for 8 days per month. The location options include the US, UK, Netherlands, India, Indonesia, China, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Rwanda, Kenya, and Ethiopia. Applicants must have existing work authorization in the country of application at the time of submission.

Salary and Benefits

• US Salary Range: $192,000 to $230,000 USD per year.

• Netherlands: €120,000 to €150,000 EUR.

• UK: £120,000 to £150,000 GBP.

• Other Countries: Salary commensurate with local market conditions.

• WRI offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, as well as access to a retirement plan and employer contributions.

How to Apply

Interested applicants are encouraged to submit their resume and a cover letter by April 25, 2025. The application process is ongoing, so early submissions are recommended. Please apply through the official WRI Careers portal.

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