British High Commission in Nairobi

Development Economist at British High Commission – Nairobi, KES 532,256.22/month – 2025

Position: Development Economist
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Type of Job: Fixed Term – 24 Months
Number of Posts: 1 Vacancy
Job Category: Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (Programme Roles)
Salary: KES 532,256.22/month
Grade: Senior Executive Officer (SEO)
Working Hours Per Week: 36.25 Hours
Reporting To: British High Commission Nairobi
Application Deadline: 4 April 2025
Start Date: 2 July 2025
Region: Africa
Type of Post: British High Commission
Country/Territory: Kenya

Introduction: Advance Kenya’s Economic Development with Global Impact

The British High Commission in Nairobi invites experienced professionals to apply for an exciting opportunity as a Development Economist. This position plays a pivotal role in influencing Kenya’s economic landscape through high-quality economic analysis, robust evidence generation, and policy development. You will contribute to sustainable development goals, regional partnerships, and socio-economic reforms that positively impact millions of lives.

As a Development Economist, you will ensure that economic data, value-for-money principles, and evidence-based decision-making guide the British High Commission’s developmental initiatives. This career-defining opportunity is ideal for those who possess a deep understanding of development economics, expertise in the Kenyan socio-economic context, and a commitment to transformative change.

About British High Commission Nairobi

The British High Commission Nairobi serves as the UK Government’s diplomatic and development hub for Kenya, Somalia, and the wider East African region. It hosts over 400 staff across 10 UK Government departments, focusing on Kenya’s prosperity, sustainable development, security, climate change, human rights, and democratic governance.

Aligned with the UK-Kenya Strategic Partnership, BHC Nairobi engages closely with Kenya’s central, regional, and county governments, businesses, civil society, and international organizations such as the United Nations, IMF, and World Bank. The commission manages a significant bilateral Official Development Assistance (ODA) budget of £81 million for 2024/25.

The commission’s Strategy, Assurance and Results Team (START) provides expert support on finance, risk management, evidence generation, programme delivery, and quality assurance, ensuring transparency and maximized impact.

Key Responsibilities of the Development Economist Role

As the Development Economist, your responsibilities include the following key areas:

Enhancing Economic Analysis Across Development Portfolios

Conduct value addition assessments for development programmes across various sectors.
Perform diagnostic and ‘what works’ economic analysis for priority development sectors.
Provide contextual economic analysis in relevant geographical and sectoral areas to support decision-making.

Promoting Value for Money Principles

Develop and lead a value-for-money strategy that spans BHC Nairobi’s entire development portfolio.
Conduct rigorous project appraisals, economic evaluations, and cost-benefit analyses.
Analyse programme efficiency to ensure effective use of financial resources and enhanced developmental outcomes.

Improving Evidence Availability and Utilization

Maintain an up-to-date statistical database on key economic sectors relevant to BHC programmes.
Facilitate the use of reliable data, quality assurance, and evidence-backed analysis in both internal documentation and external communications.

Contributing to FCDO’s Global Economic Network

Dedicate up to 10% of your time (equivalent to 22 days per year) to support FCDO’s broader economic objectives such as contributing to cross-country programmes, developing evidence-based products, and delivering training for cadre members.

Supporting the START Team and Corporate Roles

Actively engage as part of the START team, supporting team members and leading specific workstreams when required.
Fulfil corporate responsibilities in line with BHC Nairobi’s overall strategic objectives.

Qualifications and Skills Required

Applicants must demonstrate the following qualifications, competencies, and skills:

Academic Qualifications:

A Master’s degree in Economics.

Professional Experience:

Minimum 5 years’ experience in development economics, with a strong record of high-quality, impactful economic analysis.
Expertise in influencing policy through evidence-driven recommendations.
Strong skills in microeconomics, including demand and supply analysis, competition, sector analysis, behavioral economics, government interventions, and project appraisal methodologies.

Analytical and Technical Competencies:

Proficient in data analysis, economic evaluation, and drawing policy-relevant conclusions.
Ability to assist teams and stakeholders in interpreting data and using evidence effectively.

Communication Skills:

Strong verbal and written communication abilities, with the capacity to simplify complex economic concepts for non-specialist audiences.
Experience working with diverse teams and engaging on complex, sensitive matters.

Understanding of Kenyan Development Context:

Comprehensive knowledge of Kenya’s economic environment, key sectors, and socio-political landscape.

Behavioral Competencies:

Demonstrated strengths in Changing and Improving, Developing Self and Others, and Managing a Quality Service.

Company Culture and Values at British High Commission Nairobi

The British High Commission Nairobi is a diversity-friendly employer committed to fostering equality and inclusivity. The commission encourages applications from all backgrounds, without discrimination based on race, gender identity, disability, age, religion, sexual orientation, or other protected characteristics.

We promote family-friendly, flexible working opportunities, encouraging a supportive and growth-oriented work environment. The commission values collaboration, professional development, and the well-being of its staff. Our agile workforce approach allows team members to work flexibly, contributing to Kenya’s development goals while advancing their careers.

How to Apply for the Development Economist Role

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply for the Development Economist – Nairobi position through the following official link:

Apply for Development Economist at British High Commission

Important Application Instructions:

Complete the application form in full; the information provided is used during screening.
Double-check the application form before submission, as no changes can be made afterward.
The British High Commission will never request payment or fees for applying.
Applicants must have the right to live and work in Kenya without requiring a work permit.
Successful candidates will undergo reference checks and security clearance.
Salaries may be adjusted based on local income tax liabilities.
Further information about the civil service success profiles can be found here: Civil Service Success Profiles.