Background

Under the overall guidance of the Resident Representative and direct supervision of the Economic Advisor, the Economist advises on macro economic policies and trends and relevant linkages to UNDP programmes. The Economist provides analysis for formulation of strategies and briefings to Senior Management. The Economist works closely with Government counterparts to identify alternative macroeconomic policy options and to enhance the policy impact of UNDP projects and programmes. The Economist advocates for and represents UNDP in his/her area of expertise as requested by his/her supervisor. The Economist may supervise and lead a team of UNDP experts, international and national consultants and project staff. The Economics maintains a network with colleagues from UNDP, UN Agencies, IFIs, Government officials, multi-lateral and bi-lateral donors, universities and research centers, private sector and civil society.

Duties and Responsibilities

Provides advice and support to UNDP management, programmes and projects focusing on achievement of the following results:

Compilation, analysis and interpretation of economic and statistical data, thorough research of the economic and development issues in the country and preparation of:

• (i) top quality analysis and reports; and
• (ii) inputs to the HDRs, MDGRs, and national development strategy; and
• (iii) notes, briefs and speeches for the senior management;
• Advice on possible areas for UNDP support and/or adjustment of on-going programmes to ensure that UNDP programmes are in line with national policies and priorities;
• Contribution to the development of UNDAFs, CPDs, CPAPs.

Provides advice and options to Government counterparts and facilitation of knowledge building and management focusing on achievement of the following results:

• Facilitation of policy dialogue on economic issues with the Government, donors, civil society, private sector; universities and contribution to development of policies as relevant;
• Provision of policy options, particularly from pro-poor perspectives, on macroeconomic and development issues to governments and other development actors notably in the context of the national development strategy;
• Sound contributions to knowledge networks and communities of practice through identification of best practices and lessons learned;
• Training and capacity building support for UNDP staff and Government officials on economic issues.

Ensures creation of strategic partnerships and support to resource mobilization focusing on achievement of the following results:

• Development of partnerships with the UN Agencies, IFI’s, government institutions, bi-lateral and multi-lateral donors, private sector, civil society areas based on strategic goals of UNDP, country needs and donors’ priorities;
• Analysis and research of information on donors, preparation of substantive notes and briefs on possible areas of cooperation;
• Keeps track of the changes in the aid and development effectiveness environment and assists the Government and UNDP in resource mobilization by preparing documentation for donor, round tables and consultative meetings.
  

Advocacy and promotion of awareness of UNDP mandate and mission focusing on achievement of the following results:

• Public and policy advocacy for the Millennium Development Goals, human development, pro-poor and equitable and inclusive economic growth by participating in relevant forums, conferences and trainings;
• Support to monitoring progress and formulation of strategies towards the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals, Human Development Goals and the Post 2015 Agenda;
• Management of events and publications on economic issues.

Competencies

Corporate Competencies:

• Demonstrates integrity by modeling the UN’s values and ethical standards;
• Promotes the vision, mission, and strategic goals of UNDP;
• Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability;
• Treats all people fairly without favoritism.

Functional Competencies:

• Knowledge Management and Learning;
• Shares knowledge and experience and contributes to UNDP Practice Areas and actively works towards continuing personal learning and development;
• Ability to provide top quality policy advice services on economic issues;
• In-depth practical knowledge of inter-disciplinary development issues.

Development and Operational Effectiveness:

• Ability to lead strategic planning, results-based management and reporting;
• Ability to lead formulation and evaluation of development programmes and projects;
• Ability to apply economic theory to the specific country context, carry out high-quality economic research.

Management and Leadership:

• Focuses on impact and result for the client and responds positively to critical feedback;
• Encourages risk-taking in the pursuit of creativity and innovation;
• Leads teams effectively and shows conflict resolution skills;
• Consistently approaches work with energy and a positive, constructive attitude;
• Demonstrates strong oral and written communication skills;
• Builds strong relationships with clients and external actors.

Required Skills and Experience

Education:

• Master’s Degree or equivalent in Economics, with macro-economic and other quantitative skills, development economics, and economic planning.

Experience:

• At least 5 years of post-Master’s relevant experience at the national or international level;
  
• Sound experience in research and policy-level analysis, macroeconomic analysis, poverty reduction strategies, MDGs and aid effectiveness issues;
  
• Some experience in design, monitoring and evaluation of development projects;
• Experience in the usage of computers and office software packages, experience in handling of web-based management systems and advanced programmes for statistical analysis of data.

Language:

• Fluency in French and good knowledge of English;
• Ability to communicate at least in one national language.