Industrial Policy Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) is a regional arm of the United Nations established in 195

• Its mission is to promote the economic and social development of its member states, foster regional integration, and promote international cooperation for Africa's development. UNECA operates in 54 African countries and has a workforce of over 300 employees. The organization focuses on various sectors including trade, industrialization, and sustainable development, aiming to enhance the capacity of African countries to harness their resources effectively.

Job Overview:
The Industrial Policy Expert will play a crucial role in enhancing the capacity of African countries to leverage their critical mineral resources for value addition, industrialization, and economic diversification. This position is vital in the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which presents unprecedented opportunities for building integrated regional markets and promoting cross-border value chains. The expert will be responsible for producing a comprehensive study that outlines how Africa can utilize its critical green minerals to drive inclusive and sustainable industrial development. The role requires a deep understanding of industrial policies, investment strategies, and regional value chains, as well as the ability to analyze and synthesize complex information into actionable recommendations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Industrial Policy Expert include:

• Developing an inception report that outlines the understanding of the Terms of Reference (ToRS), methodology, analytical framework, and workplan for the assignment.
• Reviewing key continental and global policy frameworks such as the Africa Mining Vision, African Green Minerals Strategy, and AfCFTA.
• Defining priority critical/green mineral value chains for analysis based on their relevance to the AfCFTA agenda.
• Conducting a diagnostic and analytical study that assesses the regional distribution of critical green minerals and identifies complementarities across countries for regional value chain development.
• Analyzing current trade patterns within and outside Africa and examining relevant AfCFTA protocols that can promote regional processing and beneficiation.
• Identifying targeted investment opportunities along selected value chains and assessing how African countries can align incentives with green industrial policy objectives.
• Integrating social inclusion considerations, including gender equality and community development, into the study.
• Presenting preliminary findings to UNECA and selected stakeholders and finalizing the study with clear, actionable recommendations.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires an advanced university degree (Master’s or PhD) in Industrial Policy, Development Economics, International Trade, Public Policy, or a related field. A minimum of 10 years of experience in industrial policy, trade policy, or mineral-based development is essential. The candidate should have a strong understanding of the Africa Mining Vision, Africa’s Green Minerals Strategy, and the African Continental Free Trade Area. Proven experience in conducting high-level policy analysis and drafting analytical reports is desirable, along with demonstrated expertise in regional value chains and economic integration in Africa. Experience working with African governments, regional institutions, or international organizations is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or PhD) in relevant fields such as Industrial Policy, Development Economics, International Trade, or Public Policy. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of industrial policies and their implications for economic development in Africa.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in industrial policy, trade policy, or mineral-based development. Candidates should have a proven track record of conducting high-level policy analysis and drafting analytical reports, as well as experience working with African governments or regional institutions. Familiarity with the African Continental Free Trade Area and its implications for trade and industrialization is highly advantageous.

Languages:
For this position, proficiency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of the United Nations Secretariat. A working knowledge of French is considered an asset, as it enhances communication and collaboration within the diverse linguistic landscape of the United Nations and its member states.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy service is expected to last for a duration of 4 months, and the work will be home-based. The position does not require the candidate to be physically present in a specific location, allowing for flexibility in work arrangements. The United Nations emphasizes that there are no fees associated with the recruitment process, ensuring that candidates are not subjected to any financial burdens during their application.