Economist I/II & Cost-Effectiveness Unit Lead

About the role

The Cost‑Effectiveness Unit (CEU) Lead will grow IDinsight’s cost‑effectiveness practice, bridging rigorous economic analysis with practical organizational change. Reporting to the Chief Technical and Learning Officer, the role works closely with senior leadership to embed cost‑effectiveness thinking across projects and partners.

Key responsibilities

• Build and lead the CEU, developing service offerings such as cost‑effectiveness audits, lean intervention design, implementation support and tech‑enabled resource allocation.
• Identify and develop high‑impact opportunities with partners (e.g., Pact, CARE, Living Goods) and engage funders to secure project financing.
• Lead cost‑effectiveness analyses, design lean interventions, and implement cost monitoring systems for adaptive management.
• Contribute to sector‑wide thought leadership by publishing frameworks, presenting at conferences and supporting practitioner communities.

Required profile

• Advanced degree in economics, public policy or related field (Master’s minimum; PhD preferred).
• 5+ years of experience in cost‑effectiveness or cost‑efficiency analysis, preferably in international development.
• Proven ability to build cost‑analysis systems and translate economic evidence into operational decisions.
• Experience working with large implementing organizations such as NGOs, governments or multilaterals.

Required skills

• Cost modeling, sensitivity analysis and financial analysis.
• Proficiency with statistical software (Stata or R) and advanced Excel.