The Economic Affairs Officer will be responsible for the following: (1) Monitor economic developments on issues relating to MDGs and identifies recurrent and emerging issues of concern to the ESCWA Region; (2) Propose, design and carry out substantive, analytical and policy research related to the attainment of the MDGs in the ESCWA member countries in relation to macroeconomic policy challenges, inclusive development and the attainment of MDGs, poverty reduction and MDGS, public expenditures and service delivery; (3) Prepare the League of Arab States (LAS)- United Nations (UN) regional report on the attainment of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in the Arab Region and organise related Experts Group Meetings; (4) Lead the MDGs Unit and develop MDGs-based research agenda to enhance ESCWA's reputation as a think tank; (5) Design and conduct studies of selected issues in economic development addressing constraints that impede the progress toward MDGs in the ESCWA region and draft resulting reports; (6) Interpret and apply results of MDG-based econometric modelling to analysis of economic prospects and policies to enhance the empirical work that is the core of the division's flagship publications; (7) Develop MDG based policy recommendations and plans and programs to support the attainment of the MDGs by 2015; (8) Formulate proposals for development strategies, policies and measures relating to the MDGs for presentation to intergovernmental bodies and others; (9) Attend international, regional, and national meetings to hold discussions with representatives of other institutions; (10) Organize expert group meetings, seminars, capacity development opportunities etc. on development issues.
Competencies
Professionalism - Ability to apply economic theories and concepts in different sectors of economic and sustainable development; ability to conduct independent research using quantitative methods and modelling on economic topics, determine suitability, validity and accuracy of data provided by different sources; ability to identify and develop sources for data collection; shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations; takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work; strong quantitative skills and demonstrated capacity to perform research macro econometric analysis; knowledge of computer applications, particularly statistical and data processing tools; proficiency in computer systems, database construction and management, and advanced knowledge of statistical and econometric packages for quantitative economic analysis such as E-views, STATA, SAS is desirable.
Communications - Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.
Teamwork - Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others' ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.
Planning and Organizing - Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently.
- Advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in economics with specialisation in macroeconomics and excellent knowledge of development economics and applied econometrics or related field (training in econometrics is essential). A first-level university degree in combination with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
- A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in economic research and analysis on development issues with macroeconomic focus, applied policy analysis and formulation. Application of economic principles in development programmes and for situation of economic problems especially as they relate to the MDGs. Experience in economic modelling, such as the five series.
- English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Arabic is also a working language of ESCWA. For the post advertised, fluency in written and spoken English is required. Knowledge of Arabic is an advantage.
employment-escwa@un.org
