Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Harare
- Category: Development
- Closing Date: 2026-07-23
Key Responsibilities
- Lead policy analysis and research on agricultural finance, SME finance, climate finance, digital finance, export finance, and broader financial sector development to identify systemic constraints, market failures, and opportunities for inclusive financial sector transformation.
- Coordinate policy engagement and advocacy with the regulators, government ministries, financial institutions, industry associations, and other stakeholders to influence evidence-based policy and regulatory reforms.
- Develop policy briefs and project evidence into practical recommendations for strengthening inclusive and sustainable agricultural finance that promote continuous learning and influence sector-wide practice.
- Facilitate multi-stakeholder collaboration and policy dialogue by convening government agencies, financial institutions, private sector actors, development partners, and market system actors to strengthen coordination, knowledge sharing, and collective action across the agricultural finance ecosystem.
- Monitor emerging economic, financial, and regulatory developments and provide strategic technical advice to project management to ensure that project interventions remain relevant, responsive, and aligned with national priorities and international best practices.
- Use MSD lens to ensure interventions catalyze longterm systemic change rather than temporary fixes.
Requirements
- Degree in Economics/Development/Business Studies or related programme.
- Strong background in policy analysis and statistical methods.
- Experience in financial inclusion, SME development, or market systems.
- Excellent writing and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Ability to translate field evidence into systemic recommendations.
- Clean Class 4 Driver’s Licence.
How to Apply
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical educational qualifications and skills required for a Development Economist in Zimbabwe?
A Master's degree in Economics, Development Economics, or a related field is typically essential, often coupled with strong quantitative and qualitative research skills. Practical experience in data analysis, policy formulation, or project evaluation, particularly within a development context, is highly valued by employers in Zimbabwe.
What does a Development Economist typically do on a day-to-day basis in the Zimbabwean context?
Day-to-day tasks involve conducting economic research, analyzing data to inform development policies, and evaluating the impact of projects. You will often prepare reports, presentations, and engage with various stakeholders including government agencies, NGOs, and local communities on development initiatives.
What are the realistic career progression paths for a Development Economist in Zimbabwe?
Realistic career progression often leads to roles as a Senior Development Economist, policy advisor, or program manager within various organizations. There are also opportunities to transition into independent consulting or move to international development agencies with accumulated experience and expertise.
What is the typical work culture like, and what benefits can I expect as a Development Economist in Zimbabwe?
The work culture is typically collaborative, mission-driven, and often requires adaptability given the dynamic development landscape. Standard benefits usually include medical aid, pension contributions, and annual leave, though specifics can vary significantly depending on the employer (e.g., NGO, government, or private sector firm).
What should I include in my application, and what do Zimbabwean employers look for when hiring a Development Economist?
When applying, ensure your CV and cover letter clearly highlight your analytical skills, research experience, and understanding of Zimbabwean development challenges. Employers seek candidates with demonstrable experience in relevant projects, strong communication abilities, and a proven capacity to contribute to evidence-based policy solutions.
