UN Economist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development System was reformed on January 1, 2019, to enhance its effectiveness in achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UN Resident Coordinator Offices (UN RCO) play a crucial role in this reform, led by an independent UN Resident Coordinator who represents the UN Secretary-General at the country level. The Development Operations Coordination Office (DCO) was transformed into a stand-alone office to oversee the resident coordinator system, ensuring alignment with the SDG corporate priorities. The DCO recalibrated in 2026 to support the acceleration of the 2030 Agenda, focusing on data, digital innovation, and a mission-driven culture. The Economist position is integral to this mission, working closely with the SDG Policy and Financing Section to support the Resident Coordinator and UN Country Team in implementing the Cooperation Framework aligned with national development priorities and EU accession goals.

Job Overview:
The UN Economist will provide substantive support for evidence-based analysis of progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through economic and policy analysis, strategic foresight, and horizon scanning. This role is critical in supporting the Resident Coordinator and UN Country Team in advancing the implementation of the Cooperation Framework, which is aligned with the 2030 Agenda and the country’s EU accession priorities. The Economist will engage in policy development, strengthen partnerships with various stakeholders, and contribute to integrated UN country-level analysis and programming processes. The position requires a deep understanding of sustainable development trends, challenges, and opportunities, and the ability to translate these into actionable policy recommendations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Economist will be responsible for conducting economic, fiscal, financial, and social analyses to support the Resident Coordinator and UN Country Team in identifying challenges and opportunities for SDG acceleration. This includes providing substantive economic analysis for integrated UN country-level processes, contributing to knowledge generation on SDG financing, and supporting partnerships with national counterparts and stakeholders. The Economist will also monitor economic developments, conduct analyses on the role of the private sector in sustainable economic transformation, and prepare inputs for policy papers and analytical notes. Additionally, the role involves supporting the UN sustainable development programming cycle, contributing to knowledge management, and facilitating learning on economic transformation and SDG financing.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in Economics. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is an advantage. A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in economic research and analysis, macroeconomic or socioeconomic policy, and development economics is required. Experience in SDG financing, public finance, and innovative financing approaches is desirable, as is experience in supporting strategic planning and policy development with government institutions.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in Economics is required for this position. Candidates with a first-level university degree and two additional years of relevant experience may also be considered. Additional qualifications in data analytics or related fields are advantageous, enhancing the candidate's ability to analyze and interpret economic data effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in economic research and analysis, macroeconomic or socioeconomic policy, and development economics. Candidates should have experience in conducting economic and policy analysis, translating development trends into actionable recommendations, and working within UN inter-agency coordination mechanisms. Experience in supporting partnerships and resource mobilization initiatives in development cooperation is also desirable, particularly in the context of Serbia’s EU integration process.

Languages:
English and Serbian are mandatory for this position, with English being required at UN Level II proficiency. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in both languages. Knowledge of French is an asset but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This is a Fixed Term position for a duration of one year, with no expectation of renewal. The appointment is subject to budgetary approval and the availability of the post. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. This position is open to nationals of Serbia only, and candidates must possess knowledge of the national context and language. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.