Economic Affairs Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located in the Office of the Director, Division on Investment and Enterprise of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). UNCTAD was established in 1964 and is a permanent intergovernmental body that aims to promote the integration of developing countries into the world economy. It has a mission to support developing countries in their efforts to achieve sustainable development through trade, investment, and technology. UNCTAD operates in over 190 countries and employs a diverse workforce of professionals dedicated to economic development and policy analysis.

Job Overview:
The Economic Affairs Officer position involves significant responsibilities in economic or sector analysis, intergovernmental support, and technical cooperation. The incumbent will monitor economic developments in a defined area, identifying issues of concern to the United Nations. They will design and conduct studies related to investment policies and financing strategies, drafting reports and policy recommendations. The role also includes formulating proposals for development investment financing strategies and representing the organizational unit at various international, regional, and national meetings. The officer will be expected to organize expert group meetings and prepare speeches for senior staff, contributing to the overall mission of UNCTAD in promoting sustainable development through investment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Economic Affairs Officer include: monitoring economic developments and identifying emerging issues; designing and conducting studies on investment policies; drafting reports and policy recommendations; formulating proposals for investment financing strategies; attending and representing the organization at international meetings; organizing expert group meetings and seminars; providing substantive support to intergovernmental bodies; designing and monitoring technical cooperation projects; conducting training seminars for government officials; preparing analyses to advise national governments; supporting junior staff and reviewing their work; participating in broader organizational undertakings; and performing various administrative tasks necessary for the delivery of services.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a strong background in economics or a related field, with a focus on investment for development. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to apply economic theories and concepts effectively, conduct independent research, and analyze policies and strategies. Professionalism, planning and organizing skills, and accountability are essential competencies for this role. The officer should also be able to incorporate gender perspectives into their work and ensure equal participation of women and men in all areas.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in economics or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background is crucial for understanding complex economic issues and formulating effective policies.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in economic research and analysis, policy formulation, and the application of economic principles in development programs is required. Additionally, a minimum of five years of experience in research, capacity-building, and consensus-building in investment financing for development is desirable. Experience in managing partnerships and dealing with sustainable investment in digital and green sectors is also beneficial.

Languages:
The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French, both of which are required for this position. Additionally, knowledge of either Arabic, Spanish, Chinese (Mandarin), or Russian is desirable, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate in a multilingual environment. Proficiency levels in these languages should meet the minimum requirements set by the UN Language Framework.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and may involve international travel as part of technical cooperation activities. The role is classified at a senior level, reflecting the responsibilities and expectations associated with the position. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with UN standards, and the organization is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in its workforce.