Junior Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), which is a regional arm of the United Nations focused on promoting economic and social development in Africa. UNECA was established in 1958 and has since been working to foster economic growth and sustainable development across the continent. The organization operates in multiple countries across Africa, engaging with various stakeholders including governments, civil society, and the private sector to implement projects and initiatives aimed at improving the economic landscape of the region. UNECA's mission includes providing a platform for dialogue, sharing knowledge, and facilitating partnerships to address the continent's challenges and opportunities.

Job Overview:
The Junior Consultant position is designed to provide essential research and data analysis support to the Senior Consultant within the framework of the Development Account project titled 'Innovative Climate Action to Accelerate Green and Inclusive Industrialization in the Southern Africa Region.' This project is a collaborative effort between UNECA and UNCTAD, targeting six countries: Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The primary focus of this role is to ensure that the regional studies conducted under this project are evidence-based, comprehensive, and relevant to policymakers and stakeholders, including the private sector and civil society organizations. The consultant will engage in various tasks that contribute to the development of innovative green economy policies aimed at fostering inclusive and sustainable industrialization in Southern Africa, particularly emphasizing the role of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in this transition.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Junior Consultant will be responsible for a range of duties under the guidance of UNECA and the Senior Consultant. Key responsibilities include conducting desk research to compile relevant literature, datasets, and national policy documents. The consultant will draft analytical summaries of country experiences and policy frameworks, support the dissemination of surveys related to the circular economy and MSMEs, and prepare notes on financing mechanisms and innovation systems. Additionally, the consultant will contribute written inputs to designated sections of the draft regional study and develop supporting materials such as tables, charts, and presentations for workshops and briefings. This role is crucial in ensuring that the studies are well-informed and effectively communicated to stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an Advanced University Degree in Economics, Development Studies, Environmental Policy, or a related field. Alternatively, a first degree combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Furthermore, candidates should have at least three years of experience in economic policy analysis, value chain analysis, or development economics, demonstrating a solid understanding of the economic landscape and the ability to analyze complex data and policies.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include an Advanced University Degree in a relevant field such as Economics, Development Studies, or Environmental Policy. In cases where candidates hold a first degree, they must have two additional years of relevant experience to qualify for the role. This educational background is essential for understanding the intricacies of economic policies and their implications for sustainable development.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of three years of professional experience in areas such as economic policy analysis, value chain analysis, or development economics. This experience should demonstrate the candidate's ability to engage with economic data, analyze policy frameworks, and contribute to research initiatives that support sustainable industrialization and economic development.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations. Additionally, knowledge of French is considered an asset, as it may enhance communication and collaboration with stakeholders in the region where both languages are utilized.

Additional Notes:
The total remuneration for this position is USD 500

• It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. Furthermore, the organization does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts, ensuring a transparent and fair recruitment process. The position is hybrid, indicating a combination of remote and on-site work, and the expected duration of the consultancy is three months.