Policy Strategist/Economist

Job description

Deadline for application: 27 July 2026. We are looking for a policy strategist to contribute to the analysis of economic policy developments of strategic importance for the European Stability Mechanism (ESM) and to activities supporting the ESM’s interactions with the credit rating agencies. The role entails reviewing and maintaining ESM stability support instruments, analysing credit rating developments, contributing to deliverables for European Union (EU) policy forums and other international gatherings. You will work in the Policy Strategy and Institutional Relations division and report to its head.

Key Accountabilities

• Contribute to workstreams related to the ESM’s strategy on crisis prevention and crisis resolution, review ESM stability support instruments and processes.
• Contribute to interactions with credit rating agencies, specifically for credit reviews of the ESM and its predecessor the European Financial Stability Facility (EFSF).
• Analyse credit rating developments in the sovereign and supranational sectors.
• Maintain rating-related reporting tools and develop new approaches with the use of artificial intelligence.
• Monitor and help analyse policy discussions, and European Commission legislative proposals relevant for the ESM and their consequences (e.g. international role of the euro, safe assets, EU instruments etc.)
• Support ESM participation in EU forums, including by preparing analyses and briefings expressing the ESM stance for the Eurogroup, Eurogroup Working Group, and Economic and Financial Committee. 
• Prepare documents for consideration by ESM boards and committees.
• Collaborate closely with colleagues in other divisions and departments.
• Support ESM’s interactions with policymakers and peer organisations, in particular with the European Commission, the European Central Bank, and the International Monetary Fund.

Key Background & Experience

• Advanced University degree, preferably in economics, finance, or another quantitative field.
• At least two years of relevant professional experience, prior experience in the area of credit ratings will be considered an asset.
• A first experience in translating policy decisions into concrete deliverables and preparing policy stance is required.
• Good command of econometric and statistical programs. 
• Strong proficiency and interest in the use of artificial intelligence

• Excellent oral and written English skills. Any additional languages are an asset.

   

Key Competencies

• Analytical, numerical, and problem-solving skills 
• Teamwork and collaboration skills
• Communication and drafting skills 
• Capacity to build and maintain relationships
• Ability to organise and prioritise tasks in response to evolving requirements and deadlines
• Ability to work accurately and deliver on assignments in a fast-paced environment

Application Process And Practical Information 

• Deadline of publication:  27 July 2026

• Employment grade: Officer   

• Contract duration Four-year fixed-term contract, with possibility of extension   

• Place of employment: Luxembourg 

• Current working arrangements: possibility to work remotely, usually up to two days a week, from Luxembourg and the border region (or from further away under certain conditions). 

The ESM aims to provide equal opportunity to all candidates irrespective of their gender, nationality, age, race, culture, education, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or disability. To further enhance the diversity of our workforce, we particularly encourage women to apply. 

Note 1: The ESM reserves the right to refrain from hiring, or to slightly modify job responsibilities, as needed. 

Note 2: As a result of the selection process, please note that you may be placed on a ‘reserve list’ valid for a duration of six months during which you might be considered for a similar position with a similar level of requirements. Only those candidates who have been notified will be placed on the ‘reserve list.’ After this period, you will need to apply again for our vacancies to be considered for a different selection process.  

About us

The European Stability Mechanism (ESM) is the permanent crisis resolution mechanism for euro area countries. It provides financial assistance to Members facing financing difficulties. To date, the ESM and its predecessor organisation, the European Financial Stability Facility (EFSF), have launched six financial assistance programmes to five countries, provided financial support, monitored repayment capacity, and engaged with partner institutions for programme design in areas of financial interest.

The ESM is a unique place to work with around 230 individuals committed to making a difference to the future of the euro area. It recruits talented professionals of any nationality from both the private and public sectors. The ESM’s senior management is committed to preserving and enhancing a diverse, inclusive recruitment and work environment.