Country Economist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global development network established in 1951, operating in over 170 countries and territories. Its mission is to eradicate poverty, accelerate structural transformation, build resilience, and contribute to sustainable development. UNDP advocates for change and connects countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build better lives. In India, UNDP has been supporting the government and people in advancing sustainable human development, focusing on eradicating poverty, reducing inequalities, and enhancing community resilience. The organization works closely with national and subnational governments and diverse development actors to deliver people-centric results, particularly for marginalized communities. UNDP India’s new Country Programme (2023-2027) aims to provide integrated development solutions across three strategic portfolios: accountable institutions for achieving SDGs, enhanced economic opportunities, and climate-smart solutions for sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The Country Economist position is pivotal within the UNDP framework, working under the guidance of the Resident Representative and Deputy Resident Representative in the Country Office India. This role involves close collaboration with programme and operations teams and a dotted line to the RBAP Chief Economist. The Country Economist is expected to dedicate about 20% of their time to activities across the Economist Network, contributing to regional and global development efforts. The role requires a keen awareness of the changing development landscape, embedding a strategic focus on impactful development interventions, and connecting diagnostics and solutions to the politics of change. The Country Economist will work across various units and functions, enhancing horizontal collaboration to achieve UNDP's strategic goals. This position also involves developing and maintaining a professional network across development partner agencies, government institutions, the private sector, and civil society at the country level.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Country Economist will have several key functions, including advising and providing analysis to strengthen foresight analytics and portfolio design for the UNDP Country Office management. This includes preparing and implementing country programmes and strategies, leading efforts to conceptualize and implement the Development Finance Assessment (DFA), and providing analysis on economic, social, and political developments. The role also involves providing policy advice and technical expertise to national and sub-national government counterparts, facilitating dialogue on sustainable development issues, and supporting monitoring and reporting of progress related to SDGs. Additionally, the Country Economist will advocate for UNDP’s role and engage with partners to strengthen collaborations, contribute to UNDP’s work across the Asia-Pacific region, and participate actively in the Economist Network. The incumbent will also be responsible for compiling data, performing statistical analysis, and supporting the creation of large-scale development solutions to address complex challenges.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in Economics or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in Economics or a related field combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience will be considered. A Ph.D. in Economics is advantageous. The position requires a minimum of 7 years of experience (with a master’s degree) or 9 years (with a bachelor’s degree) in relevant areas of economic research, policy, and implementation support. Extensive experience in research and policy-level analysis, proven policy advisory and advocacy experience, and experience in preparing high-quality policy briefs for senior policymakers are essential. Candidates should also have demonstrated experience with the SDGs and their application at the national level, as well as experience in stakeholder analysis and engagement.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in Economics or a related field is required for this position. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in Economics or a related field, combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience, will be considered in lieu of the advanced degree. A Ph.D. in Economics will be an advantage, providing a deeper understanding of economic theories and practices relevant to the role.

Experience:
The Country Economist role requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience at the national or international level in economic research, policy, and implementation support, with a preference for candidates who have experience in the Asia-Pacific region. Candidates should have extensive experience in research and policy-level analysis, proven policy advisory and advocacy experience, and experience in preparing high-quality policy briefs for senior policymakers. Experience in strategic visioning, stakeholder engagement, and resource mobilization is also desired, along with a strong understanding of the SDGs and their application at the national level.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required for this position. A working knowledge of another UN language is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to UNDP's global initiatives.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to administrative clearance and approval from the Government of India. It does not have supervisory or managerial responsibilities. UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions at the same grade level. The organization values diversity and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. UNDP is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and does not tolerate harassment or discrimination. All selected candidates undergo relevant checks and are expected to adhere to the organization's standards and principles.