Senior Economist

Job Posting Organization:
The Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific (RAP) is a crucial part of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. Established to address regional priorities for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, agriculture, and rural development, RAP plays a significant role in the planning and implementation of FAO's activities across Asia and the Pacific. The office oversees a network of Country Offices and the Subregional Office for the Pacific Islands (SAP), ensuring a multidisciplinary approach to programs and identifying priority areas for action. RAP collaborates with various divisions and centers at FAO headquarters to develop and promote strategic responses to regional priorities, contributing to the organization's overall mission. The office also supports the formulation and implementation of Country Programmes and Projects, aligning them with the FAO Strategic Framework and the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF). Furthermore, RAP engages with regional institutions and participates in UN regional architecture to enhance food security and sustainable development initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Senior Economist position at the Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific (RAP) is designed for a highly skilled professional who will provide leadership and strategic advice on policy assistance and governance related to food security, nutrition, and sustainable agriculture development. The role requires a deep understanding of global and regional economic trends, particularly in the food and agriculture sector. The Senior Economist will be responsible for guiding technical and policy work at both regional and country levels, ensuring that FAO's strategic objectives are met. This position involves analyzing regional and country-level issues, designing and implementing policy work programs, and advocating for enhanced policies and governance in food security and nutrition. The Senior Economist will also represent FAO at international meetings and conferences, contributing to the organization's visibility and influence in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Economist will manage or lead specialized teams, providing technical leadership in high-level policy analysis missions and projects. Key responsibilities include leading the work of technical or policy officers in collaboration with Subregional Offices and headquarters, advocating for strategic partnerships and best practices, and interacting with UN Regional and Country Teams to improve cross-sectoral policies. The role involves analyzing regional and country trends in agrifood systems, identifying gaps, and proposing follow-up actions. The Senior Economist will also plan and lead the preparation of regional flagship publications, ensuring high technical quality in data analysis and evidence provision. Additional duties include coordinating contributions to UN reports, supporting the development of investment-oriented programs, and acting as the technical focal person for regional conferences and governing bodies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in economics, development studies, political sciences, agricultural economics, or a related field relevant to FAO's work. A minimum of ten years of relevant experience in policy advice and economic analysis related to food and nutrition security, agriculture, and rural development is required. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of complex policy formulation processes and have extensive experience in food policy analysis, providing strategic advice to senior management, and leading international meetings and trainings. Proficiency in relevant software such as STATA, R, or Python is also essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree, specifically a Master's degree or equivalent, in fields such as economics, development studies, political sciences, agricultural economics, or other related disciplines that align with the work of the FAO. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of food security and agricultural development.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically a minimum of ten years in relevant fields. Candidates should have a proven track record in policy advice and economic analysis, particularly in relation to food and nutrition security, agriculture, and rural development. Experience in monitoring and evaluating policies and programs is also essential, along with a demonstrated ability to lead and manage multidisciplinary teams in various locations.

Languages:
Candidates must have a working knowledge of English at proficiency level C and intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) at level B. This language proficiency is crucial for effective communication and collaboration within the organization and with external partners.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Bangkok, Thailand, and is part of the FAO's Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific. While the job description does not specify a deadline for applications, it is important for candidates to be aware of the competitive nature of such positions. The role is likely to be full-time and may involve international collaboration, requiring candidates to be adaptable and willing to engage with diverse stakeholders in the region. Compensation and benefits details are typically aligned with FAO's organizational standards, which include competitive salaries and opportunities for professional development.