About the Office of the Chief Economist

The EBRD Office of the Chief Economist (OCE) is led by Erik Berglöf, who took up the position as Chief Economist in January 2006. 20 economists and three counsellors work in the department.

The OCE plays several roles at the EBRD. The main objectives are to:

• Work with banking teams to strengthen the transition impact of projects.
• Help to develop the Bank’s country strategies and sectoral policies.
• Conduct research aimed at key strategic, policy and operational issues.

Transition impact

A main function of the OCE is to strengthen the transition impact of projects. OCE staff work closely with banking teams to assess the potential transition impact of projects and help build in transition-related features, for example through technical assistance or loan conditionalities. The OCE provides transition impact ratings for each project that the EBRD finances and monitors the transition achievements of projects after signing.

Strategy

The OCE helps to shape the Bank’s strategic direction. It contributes to country strategies and sector policies, collects and analyses country data, evaluates macroeconomic risks, and assesses countries’ progress in transition.

Research

The OCE also contributes to policy studies, which include the publication of Transition Report and Transition Report Update, a Working Paper series, the academic journal the Economics of Transition, and other special reports. View the list of EBRD publications.