Chief Economist & Director of Social Policy

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency that works in almost all countries, including some of the world’s toughest places, to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children. The organization operates in 190 countries and territories, focusing on saving lives, ensuring development, and fulfilling the rights of children. UNICEF is dedicated to addressing the needs of children living in poverty and those facing additional deprivations, such as access to basic life necessities. The organization aims to reduce child and household poverty and increase access to social protection, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The Chief Economist & Director of Social Policy at UNICEF plays a crucial role in providing global vision, technical guidance, and strategic leadership in support of UNICEF’s Strategic Plan and the SDGs. This position enhances UNICEF’s position as a global leader for children, ensuring evidence-based advocacy, economic and policy advice, and operational leadership across various contexts, including humanitarian and fragile settings. The role involves leading global strategic partnerships and coalitions with international financial institutions and other organizations to advance the wellbeing of children. The Chief Economist will also coordinate technical guidance and support to UNICEF country and regional offices, focusing on economic analysis and policy approaches to scale up investments in children and reduce poverty among children.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Vision and Strategy: Develop strategies to achieve the UNICEF Strategic Plan Target 2026-2029, particularly focusing on reducing multi-dimensional poverty among children. Lead policy approaches to enhance investment and impact for children.
• Management of People and Resources: Provide leadership in managing human, financial, and material resources in the Center of Excellence in Panama. Ensure accountability in budget execution and create a unified culture to achieve divisional goals.
• Representation and Networking: Convene the global social policy community, engage with knowledge networks, and leverage UNICEF’s convening power for policy research.
• Policy Development and Technical Leadership: Ensure that social policy priorities remain critical at all levels and provide technical support for child poverty reduction in various contexts. Advise senior management on policy choices and enhance partnerships within global finance.

Required Qualifications:
An advanced university degree in economics or a related field is required, with a doctorate being an advantage. A first-level university degree may be considered with two additional years of relevant work experience. A minimum of 15 years of professional experience in international organizations or corporations is required, with substantive experience in economic and social policy analysis and advocacy. Excellent knowledge of international development policy and the ability to link research with policy and financing are essential. Peer-reviewed publications in reputable journals are an asset.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree from an accredited institution in economics or a related field. A doctorate degree is preferred, while a first-level university degree may be considered with additional work experience.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 15 years of relevant professional experience, demonstrating intellectual and managerial leadership in international organizations or corporations. Experience in economic and social policy analysis, advocacy, and technical assistance at national and international levels is required.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Knowledge of another official UN language or a local language is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Panama City and involves collaboration with colleagues across multiple locations. UNICEF promotes flexible working hours to accommodate different time zones while prioritizing staff wellbeing. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with its aims, including discrimination and abuse. UNICEF is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates.