Senior Economic Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Division on Investment and Enterprise 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 sustainable development, aiming to create a more equitable global economic environment. UNCTAD operates in over 190 countries and employs a diverse workforce committed to fostering sustainable economic growth and development.

Job Overview:
The Senior Economic Officer will play a pivotal role in leading initiatives related to sustainable investment and capital markets. This position requires a deep understanding of economic analysis and the ability to formulate strategies and policies that can be adopted by the international community. The officer will be responsible for identifying emerging development issues, supervising a team of economists, and managing expert consultations to finalize reports on sustainable investment. The role also involves providing substantive support to intergovernmental bodies, representing the organization at various meetings, and developing relationships with senior officials and stakeholders in the capital markets. The officer will contribute to the formulation of the unit's medium-term plan and budget, ensuring that the organization's overall program of work aligns with sustainable development goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Economic Officer will lead the formulation and management of economic analysis programs, focusing on sustainable investment and capital markets. Key responsibilities include conducting economic research, supervising staff economists, commissioning studies, and managing expert group meetings. The officer will prepare reports and speeches, provide strategic advice to intergovernmental bodies, and represent the organization at international meetings. Additionally, the officer will develop relationships with government officials and stakeholders, negotiate technical assistance programs, and coordinate cooperation among member states. The role also involves leading resource mobilization efforts and managing administrative matters within the organizational unit.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in economic research and analysis, with a minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in related fields. Experience in sustainable investment and capital markets is highly desirable, along with a proven track record in developing sustainability practices in investment ecosystems. The ability to conduct independent research and develop economic policies is essential. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, effective communication skills, teamwork, leadership capabilities, and performance management skills.

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 two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Specialization in Corporate Social Responsibility, Corporate Governance, and Responsible Investment is desirable.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in economic research, policy formulation, and application of economic principles in development programs. At least seven years of this experience should be in the field of sustainable investment and capital markets. Proven experience in promoting sustainability practices in investment and finance ecosystems is also desirable, along with a background in research and policy analysis on sustainable finance.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, proficiency in English is required, with a minimum UN Level III proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Knowledge of French is an asset but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and encourages applications from female candidates and individuals from underrepresented member states. The position may involve travel and participation in international meetings. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process and is committed to ensuring the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity in its hiring practices.