Economic Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global development network established in 1965, with a mission to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and people to address their development challenges. The Programme of Assistance to the Palestinian People (PAPP) was initiated in response to a United Nations General Assembly Resolution in 1978, focusing on improving the economic and social conditions of the Palestinian people. UNDP/PAPP aims to support the Palestinian people in achieving sustainable human development based on self-determination, equality, and freedom.

Job Overview:
The Economic Expert will play a pivotal role in leading economic initiatives under the Gaza Recovery, Reconstruction, and Development Plan (GRRDP). This position requires a strategic thinker who can conduct economic assessments of the Gaza Strip, identifying key challenges, trends, and opportunities for recovery and growth. The expert will advise on the development and implementation of economic strategies that align with the national vision for sustainable development and resilience. The role involves prioritizing and designing economic recovery initiatives that focus on job creation, enterprise development, private sector revitalization, and public investment. The Economic Expert will also coordinate with various stakeholders, including ministries, financial institutions, donors, and private sector actors, to ensure cohesion and resource mobilization in economic programming. Additionally, the expert will develop monitoring frameworks to assess the progress and impact of economic interventions, providing analytical reports, policy briefs, and strategic recommendations. The position also emphasizes knowledge exchange, innovation, and capacity building for national and local economic actors, making it a critical role in the overall recovery and development efforts in Gaza.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Economic Expert will be responsible for the following duties and responsibilities:

• Conduct comprehensive economic assessments of the Gaza Strip to identify challenges, trends, and opportunities for recovery and growth.
• Advise on the development and implementation of economic strategies that align with the national vision for sustainable development and resilience.
• Support the prioritization and design of economic recovery initiatives, focusing on job creation, enterprise development, private sector revitalization, and public investment.
• Coordinate with ministries, financial institutions, donors, and private sector actors to ensure cohesion, resource mobilization, and alignment of economic programming.
• Develop monitoring frameworks to assess the progress and impact of economic interventions, providing periodic analytical reports, policy briefs, and strategic recommendations.
• Contribute to the design of economic development components of key GRRDP programs and support proposal development for donor engagement.
• Promote knowledge exchange, innovation, and capacity building for national and local economic actors.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a strong background in economics, development studies, or a related field. Candidates should possess excellent analytical and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to assess complex economic situations and propose viable solutions. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for effective coordination with various stakeholders. The ideal candidate should demonstrate adaptability and flexibility in a dynamic work environment, along with a commitment to professionalism and accountability.

Educational Background:
Candidates should hold at least a Master's degree in Economics, Development Studies, Public Policy, or a related field. A PhD in a relevant discipline would be an advantage. The educational background should reflect a strong understanding of economic principles, development theories, and policy formulation processes.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in economic development, policy analysis, or a related field. Experience working in the Palestinian context or similar environments is highly desirable. Candidates should have a proven track record of successfully managing economic initiatives and collaborating with governmental and non-governmental organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of Arabic is highly desirable, as it will facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of the role. Additional language skills may be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This is a national UN Volunteer assignment, and the selected candidate will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. The contract is for 12 months, with the possibility of extensions based on funding availability, operational necessity, and satisfactory performance. A Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) of ILS 9,441 is provided monthly to cover housing, utilities, and normal living expenses. The position includes life, health, and permanent disability insurance, covering up to 3 dependents, as well as an exit allowance for satisfactory service.