Consultant International

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) plays a crucial role in supporting African countries in negotiations, ratification, and implementation of trade agreements, particularly within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Established to enhance the economic and social development of African nations, UNECA operates in multiple countries across the continent, providing technical and institutional support to strengthen national capacities for regional integration. The organization focuses on data-driven strategies to facilitate economic growth and development, ensuring that member states can effectively leverage trade agreements to their advantage.

Job Overview:
The position of International Consultant involves providing expert support to the Djibouti government in the collection, organization, and enhancement of trade data, particularly in the services sector. This role is critical as Djibouti aims to improve its economic integration and competitiveness within the East African region. The consultant will work closely with national authorities to align data collection practices with international standards, specifically the EBOPS 2010 classification. The overarching goal is to ensure that Djibouti can make informed decisions based on reliable and disaggregated trade statistics, which are essential for effective policy formulation and monitoring of trade commitments. The consultant will also contribute to the national strategy for implementing the AfCFTA, ensuring that Djibouti's economic aspirations are supported by robust data systems.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for several key deliverables, including:

• Conducting a comprehensive diagnostic and institutional mapping report to assess the current state of trade data collection in Djibouti.
• Preparing a main technical report that includes analysis, recommendations, and datasets relevant to the services trade.
• Organizing a national validation workshop to present findings and gather feedback, culminating in a revised final report that incorporates stakeholder observations. The consultant will also engage with various government ministries, stakeholders, and international partners to ensure that the data collection processes are inclusive and comprehensive. Additionally, the consultant will provide training and capacity-building sessions for local staff to enhance their skills in data analysis and reporting.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a higher university degree (Master's or PhD) in economics, statistics, international trade, or related fields. A minimum of 10 years of experience in the collection and analysis of trade data, particularly in the services sector, is essential. The consultant should demonstrate a strong understanding of international trade frameworks and data standards, as well as experience working with government entities and international organizations. Excellent analytical skills and the ability to communicate complex data findings clearly are also required.

Educational Background:
The position requires a higher education degree, specifically a Master's or PhD, in relevant fields such as economics, statistics, or international trade. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of trade data and the methodologies used in data collection and analysis.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 10 years of professional experience in the field of trade data collection and analysis. This experience should include a focus on the services sector, as well as familiarity with international standards and classifications related to trade data. Previous work with governmental or intergovernmental organizations will be advantageous, as it demonstrates the ability to navigate complex institutional environments and collaborate effectively with various stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in French, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of English is considered an asset, as it may facilitate communication with international partners and stakeholders involved in the project.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to last for a duration of 3 months, with specific deliverables tied to the timeline. The consultant will be engaged on a contractual basis, and the role is likely to require full-time commitment during this period. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the selection is based solely on merit and qualifications.