About the Milken InstituteThe Milken Institute is a globally minded, publicly supported, non-partisan, and nonprofit think tank headquartered in Santa Monica, with offices in Washington, DC, New York, London, Abu Dhabi, and Singapore. For the past three decades, the Milken Institute has served as a catalyst for practical, scalable solutions to global challenges by connecting human, financial, and educational resources to those who need them. Guided by a conviction that the best ideas, under-resourced, cannot succeed, we conduct research and analysis and convene top experts, innovators, and influencers from different backgrounds and competing viewpoints. We leverage this expertise and insight to construct programs and policy initiatives. These activities are designed to help people build meaningful lives, in which they can experience health and well-being, pursue effective education and gainful employment, and access the resources required to create ever-expanding opportunities for themselves and their broader communities.The Milken Institute's events and programmatic activities, involve the exchange of ideas with leaders from around the world. The Institute hosts more than 200 events each year, with our annual flagship event, Global Conference, bringing together 4,500+ participants from around the world, featuring more than 900+ speakers throughout 200+ sessions over the course of the event. About Research at the Milken InstituteThe Milken Institute's expert staff regularly releases reports featuring insights, analysis, and implementation roadmaps on topics related to finance, health, and philanthropy. Our research team of PhD economists utilizes quantitative and mixed methods methodologies to produce interactive tools, presentations, and short-and long-form publications. Our Research and Reports are typically used in governmental, academic, corporate, and nonprofit sectors to drive informed decision-making, shape policies, and promote effective strategies for addressing issues or improving current practices.About the PositionThe research team at the Milken Institute International pillar is seeking exceptional candidates in international finance, development economics, or macroeconomics at the Associate Director level. Qualified candidates will have excellent oral and written communication skills and an advanced degree (Ph.D., MBA/MS with relevant experience) in economics or a related field, with a solid background in statistical and economic modelling using R, Python, Stata, or a similar programming language. This position will work closely with the Milken Institute's Asia team in Singapore on identifying research opportunities and executing deliverables related to the team's programmatic work. Fluency in Mandarin (native preferred) is an essential requirement for this position.The ideal candidate will work collaboratively to conduct applied research on issues pertinent to international economic and financial trends. The ability to communicate complex, technical concepts concisely and clearly to an audience with various backgrounds and levels of experience is essential. ResponsibilitiesWrite reports with findings and recommendations that can be shared with stakeholdersConduct sophisticated empirical research in international finance and economicsGather and analyze complex economic data from multiple sources (such as the IMF, World Bank, and national statistical offices)Present research findings to technical and non-technical audiences internally and externallyProduce original research and reports on regional conditions in Asia and the Pacific, including the Milken Institute's "Best Performing Cities: China" reportCollaborate closely with the Milken Institute's Asia team on identifying research opportunities and delivering work products in support of the team's programmatic workPromote the Milken Institute's work and research findings through interactions with the media and the press and by representing the institute at regional and global conveningsDuties as assignedRequirementsFluency in Mandarin (required; native strongly preferred)Knowledgeable about China's development policies and regional growth dynamicsAdvanced degree (Ph.D. preferred) in international finance, economics, or a related field A minimum of 6 years of experience in conducting quantitative and qualitative research A minimum of 6 years of experience with statistical analyses and programming tools such as R or PythonStrong quantitative skills and analytical problem-solving requiredExcellent interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written)Proved track-record of ability to manage projects workflow/priorities and meet deadlinesIndependence and ability to take ownership of each project from start to finishAbility to work as part of a team and perform under deadline pressureWorking Conditions & Travel RequirementsThis position will work in a professional office environment on a hybrid schedule consisting of three (3) days per week reporting in-person to the Santa Monica office location (Tuesday - Thursday), with the remaining two (2) days working remotely. Please understand, this schedule is subject to change at the Institute's sole discretion. This person will also be required to travel occasionally to other offices and/or venues to assist with events as needed, requiring occasional work outside of traditional hours. International along with domestic travel is possible. Additionally, this position requires interacting virtually on a regular basis with Milken Institute staff based in other locations in the United States and around the world. NoteThe statements herein are intended to describe the overall nature and level of work being performed by employees and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer. We are interested in qualified candidates who are eligible to work in the United States. Please note, we are not sponsoring visas at this time, being authorized to work in the U.S. is a precondition of employment.Please submit resume and cover letter illustrating how your experience and skills will contribute to the department and any unique qualities you bring to the position. If applying via Indeed, please upload your resume and any supporting documentation as one attachment. Any application that does not include both a resume and cover letter will be rejected. If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact our Human Resources department to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.Our CultureThe Milken Institute is proud to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, disability or status as a veteran. Every person at the Milken Institute is treated with respect, supported with resources and training, and exposed to a broad range of experiences. We foster a space for growth with opportunities to share knowledge and passion with both clients and colleagues. We are committed to building a diverse workforce and creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. Our leadership is actively involved in our commitment to diversity and inclusion, and fostering a culture that creates opportunities for everyone. BenefitsHealth Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)Retirement Plan - 403b (5% match)Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)Paid Time Off (Personal, Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)Family Leave (Maternity & Paternity)Fertility SupportShort-Term & Long-Term Disability Flexible Spending Account (FSAs)Pet Insurance DiscountTraining & Development:LinkedIn Learning - over 15,000 self-guided classes offeredAnnual Mentor ProgramWellness Resources:Employee Assistance ProgramCALM app membership
Job Title
Associate Director, Research