Job Title
Senior Executive, Research (Public Finance Unit)
Description
Please submit the following documents to hiring@ideas.org.my:
Curriculum Vitae (include references) and cover letter.
Transcripts and relevant certificates.
Essay to the following question: ‘What policy reforms would you propose in Malaysia and why?’
Sample of written work.
Kindly note that only individuals whose qualifications match the current needs of the available positions will be considered and will receive responses from the hiring manager.
Responsibilities
As a Senior Executive, Public Finance Unit, your role is to execute research and advocacy initiatives to a high level of quality, contribute significantly to the development of project and research pipelines, and manage project delivery independently. You will work closely with internal and external stakeholders, contribute to policy development, and develop your expertise and voice in public policy. Your experience in public policy research, communication and analytical skills, and leadership abilities will be critical in driving the unit's success.
Key Responsibilities:
Research and Policy Development:
- Stay updated on fiscal policies, regulations, and emerging practices in public financial management.
- Conduct research and analysis on key research areas of public financial management especially on budget transparency, governance of government-linked companies (GLCs), governance of public procurement and impact of fiscal policy.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop sound policy recommendations aligned with organisational objectives.
- Contribute to the economic/public finance research agenda for IDEAS, including independently leading research projects and contributing to IDEAS’ public narrative on economic/public finance issues.
- Prepare reports, other written content, presentations materials for research and advocacy on economic/public finance issues
Project Management and Development:
- Manage assigned projects, including ensuring timely delivery, maintaining expenses within budget, and guiding junior staff as required Develop project proposals and project budgets with guidance from management.
Stakeholder Engagement:
- Conduct external engagements, for example running capacity-building workshops or presenting IDEAS research findings to external audiences.
- Cultivate and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, financial institutions, and industry experts.
- Collaborate with internal and external partners to support public finance initiatives.
- Represent the organisation in meetings, conferences, and industry events.
Team Leadership and Development:
- Assist line manager in structuring projects and research and providing guidance to junior staff.
- Foster a collaborative and high-performance work environment.
- Participate in internal training and development to enhance team members' skills and knowledge.
Requirements
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in finance, economics, public policy, law, or a related field.
- Demonstrated commitment to public life in Malaysia and understanding of the mission and values of IDEAS.
- Experience of research in academia, the public sector, research institutes or consulting firms. For the position of Senior
- Executive, 2-4 years of prior professional experience would be required. More senior or junior positions can be considered based on experience level and best fit for the role.
- Personal qualities that are desirable for this role:Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with stakeholders.
- Leadership skills and the ability to guide and motivate a team.
- Proficiencies that would be an asset for this role:Proficiency in financial software or data analysis tools.
- Experience in public finance, public financial management, financial analysis, or a similar area.
- Strong skills in analysis and record-keeping or data management.
- Solid understanding of regulatory frameworks and compliance requirements.
- Broader knowledge and understanding of Malaysia’s economic and fiscal challenges.
