Macroeconomic and Public Finance Consultancy

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) is a regional arm of the United Nations established to promote economic and social development in the Arab region. ESCWA aims to foster inclusive and sustainable development by providing a platform for dialogue and cooperation among member states. The organization focuses on various issues, including economic growth, social justice, and environmental sustainability, and works with governments and stakeholders to implement policies that address regional challenges. Established in 1973, ESCWA has a diverse workforce and operates in multiple countries across the Arab region, engaging in research, capacity building, and policy advocacy to support member states in achieving their development goals.

Job Overview:
The consultancy position is designed to provide high-level technical and analytical inputs, as well as research supplements and empirical assessments, to support the Shared Economic Prosperity Cluster within ESCWA. The consultant will be expected to review and provide feedback on substantive products related to macroeconomic and public finance issues. Given the current economic crises and geopolitical shocks affecting the region, the consultant's role is critical in helping member countries develop strategies for resilient growth and macroeconomic stability. The position requires a deep understanding of the economic landscape, including the need for diversification of economic sectors, job creation, and the safeguarding of social spending. The consultant will contribute to the development of macroeconomic policies and fiscal strategies that address the uncertainties faced by economies in the region while promoting long-term growth and development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The main duties and responsibilities of the consultant include:

• Peer reviewing the public finance resilience report and providing high-level substantive feedback, including supplementary research inputs, data, figures, recommendations, and key messages.
• Peer reviewing macroeconomic reports and offering high-level substantive feedback, along with supplementary research inputs, data, figures, and summary recommendations.
• Contributing to the preparation of background materials for high-level events, meetings, and forums.
• Providing substantive inputs to reports, including technical reviews, synthesizing content and messages, and conducting empirical assessments of macroeconomic and public finance issues.
• Preparing briefings on macro and fiscal issues, highlighting key developments, policy challenges, and implications at the policy level.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in economics, finance, or a related field, with a PhD being desirable. All applicants are required to submit a copy of their educational degree, as incomplete applications will not be considered. Additionally, a minimum of 10 years of experience in public finance, macroeconomics, development economics, or a related field is required. Experience within the Arab region's development context is considered an asset, as it provides valuable insights into the specific challenges and opportunities faced by member countries.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in economics, finance, or a related field. A PhD is preferred, as it demonstrates a higher level of expertise and understanding of complex economic issues. Candidates must provide proof of their educational qualifications, as this is a critical component of the application process.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in the fields of public finance, macroeconomics, or development economics. This extensive experience is essential for understanding the complexities of economic policies and their implications for growth and stability in the region. Familiarity with the Arab region's development context is also desirable, as it enhances the consultant's ability to provide tailored recommendations and insights.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Arabic is mandatory for this position, as these are the working languages of ESCWA. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in all four areas of language use: speaking, reading, writing, and understanding. Fluency in French is considered desirable, as it may facilitate communication and collaboration within the United Nations Secretariat, where French is also a working language.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is based locally in Beirut, Lebanon, and candidates must have the legal right to live and work in this location. The recruitment process is conducted on a local basis, and the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. It is important for applicants to be aware that the United Nations does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts.