Do you want to build a career that is truly worthwhile? Working at the World Bank Group provides a unique opportunity for you to help our clients solve their greatest development challenges. The World Bank Group is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries; a unique global partnership of five institutions dedicated to ending extreme poverty, increasing shared prosperity and promoting sustainable development. With 189 member countries and more than 120 offices worldwide, we work with public and private sector partners, investing in groundbreaking projects and using data, research, and technology to develop solutions to the most urgent global challenges. For more information, please visit www.worldbank.org

Junior Professional Associates – Program Description

The Junior Professionals Associate Program (JPA) offers an exceptional opportunity for recent graduates to embark on a professional journey, providing a three-year contract with valuable work experience within a diverse and dynamic environment and the potential of field work experience. The program is an excellent platform to sharpen your existing skills and to develop new ones, all while gaining a profound understanding of the challenges associated with reducing poverty and fostering shared prosperity on a livable planet.

We will provide you with the opportunity to gain entry-level professional experience in a premier development institution, on an Extended Term Consultant (ETC) contract with benefits. For more information, please visit www.worldbank.org/careers/jpa

The following are minimum requirements to be eligible for the JPA program:

Be 32 years of age or younger

Hold a bachelor’s degree

Be fluent in English

The JPA program at the World Bank is a highly competitive initiative. Candidates who are being actively considered for positions may be required to present academic transcripts and professional references. The World Bank’s Human Resources team and hiring team will reach out exclusively to individuals selected for assessment and interviews.

Positions may be in any of the World Bank’s offices worldwide.

Specific Unit Description – Regional Environmental and Social Standards Adviser (RSA) within South Asia Region Operational and Knowledge Services (SAROS).

The South Asia Region comprises eight countries (Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) and approves about 40 new projects each fiscal year. The Operational and Knowledge Services (SAROS) unit is part of the Office of the Regional Vice Presidency for the South Asia Region. SAROS works closely with the regional Director of Strategy and Operations (DSO), the region’s global practices, and country management units in the field offices and provides operational advice on results, risks, and policy compliance. The team advises on portfolio performance and management issues, supports the implementation of corporate initiatives, and supports the region in bringing the operational efficiency and effectiveness agenda to the frontlines.

Duties and Responsibilities

SAROS is a pioneer in integrating AI-driven solutions in their daily work and has piloted several initiatives in this respect. Wanting to expand this aspect even further, we are seeking a highly motivated and innovative JPA with a background in data sciences and interest in AI solutions. Specific responsibilities include:

• Support the SAROS team in collating, updating and expanding the regional data dashboard and integrating data from various sources.
• Work closely with the SAROS team in identifying potential AI solutions.
• Support the SAROS team in Data mining and specific analysis of the operational portfolio, and budget and HR data.
• Pilot innovative approaches to data analysis for monitoring and evaluation, working with select task teams as needed.
• Support the SAROS team in data forecasting regarding the region’s commitments under the World Bank’s Corporate Scorecard.
• Collaborate in trainings on the region’s data dashboard and AI solutions and prepare supporting materials as needed.
• Support SAROS in the preparation of routine briefing materials for meetings, events, and mission travel and prepare presentations, talking points and other briefing materials upon request.
• Participate in the planning, coordination and delivery of key regional events including completing background analysis, research, outreach to relevant colleagues and writing Talking Points.
• Carry out ad-hoc research assignments as needed.

Selection Criteria

• A Bachelor’s degree in data sciences of a relevant field with interest in international development.
• One to two years of relevant work experience with AI applications and solutions is a plus.
• Demonstrated analytical skills and excellent communications skills, including the ability to summarize large volumes of data/research.
• Full proficiency in data handling and ability to work quickly in Excel, Power-BI and other data applications, particularly with creating data-driven visuals and using advanced formulas (Excel).
• Ability to carry out research and analytical tasks on a wide range of operational and country issues, review and interpret information/data, identify trends and issues, and recommend actions/solutions.
• Capacity to work with tact and diplomacy with staff at all levels, often under tight time pressure in a busy environment.
• Proven ability to work both independently and with people with a diverse set of backgrounds, including with colleagues in country offices, with minimal supervision and with high levels of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Excellent writing skills and capacity to prepare briefs, presentations and Talking Points.
• Proficiency in English (both verbal and written).
• Creative, solutions-oriented mindset.

Poverty has no borders, neither does excellence. We succeed because of our differences and we continuously search for qualified individuals with diverse backgrounds from around the globe.