Associate Economic Affairs Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located in the Investment Issues Section, Investment Trends and Issues Branch of the Division on Investment and Enterprise (DIAE) of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). UNCTAD was established in 1964 and is dedicated to promoting the integration of developing countries into the world economy. The organization focuses on trade, investment, and development issues, providing a platform for dialogue and policy analysis. UNCTAD operates in over 190 countries and employs a diverse workforce committed to sustainable development and economic growth.

Job Overview:
The Associate Economic Affairs Officer will play a crucial role in supporting analytical and policy work related to international investment trends and their development implications. This includes examining the role of foreign direct investment (FDI) in sustainable development and investment policy frameworks, as well as identifying emerging macroeconomic risks. The incumbent will be responsible for conducting data-driven research and analysis, contributing to the preparation of UNCTAD’s flagship reports such as the World Investment Report, and developing technical materials for member states and intergovernmental processes. The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders and the ability to present complex information in an accessible manner to non-specialists. The officer will work under the supervision of the Chief of the Investment Issues and Analysis Section, ensuring that the work aligns with UNCTAD's mission and objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the Associate Economic Affairs Officer include conducting economic and sector analysis by collecting, evaluating, interpreting, and analyzing specified statistics and qualitative socio-economic information related to global and regional investment flows, cross-border mergers and acquisitions, greenfield investments, and international project finance. The officer will maintain databases and programs for database management, support data validation and consistency checks, and assist in the design and modification of econometric models. Responsibilities also include preparing briefing notes, inputs for speeches, data visualizations, executive summaries, and presentations on investment for development. The officer will draft sector, country, or regional components of analytical studies and assist in organizing expert group meetings and seminars on development issues. Additionally, the officer will prepare inputs for reports to intergovernmental bodies, summarize meetings, and assist in organizing panels and round tables. In terms of technical cooperation, the officer will compile and analyze data for technical cooperation project proposals, prepare documentation for programs and projects, and monitor the implementation of these initiatives. General duties include performing administrative tasks necessary for the delivery of the Section's services and participating in training activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of economic theories and their application, with the ability to identify and develop sources for data collection. The role requires proficiency in research, data analysis, and report writing. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and creativity in their work, showing persistence in problem-solving and the ability to remain calm under pressure. The position also requires a commitment to gender perspectives and ensuring equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in development economics or a related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in economic research and analysis, policy formulation, and the application of economic principles in development programs or related areas is required. Experience in analysis, policy formulation, and capacity building on investment for sustainable development is desirable, as is experience in providing technical assistance or capacity building for developing a conducive investment climate and business environment.

Languages:
The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French. For this position, proficiency in either English or French is required. Knowledge of Arabic, Spanish, Chinese (Mandarin), or Russian is considered desirable, enhancing the candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
This is a temporary position with an initial duration of three months, with the possibility of extension based on satisfactory performance and availability of funds. Candidates should be aware that there is no expectation of a fixed-term appointment after the temporary assignment. The position may involve various administrative tasks and requires flexibility in adapting to the needs of the Section. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.