Senior Economic Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Investment Policies Branch of the Division on Investment and Enterprise in 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, and operates in over 190 countries, employing thousands of staff members who work collaboratively to address global economic challenges.

Job Overview:
The Senior Economic Officer will play a crucial role in leading economic analysis and formulating strategies related to investment for development and private sector growth. This position requires a deep understanding of economic theories and the ability to apply them in various contexts. The officer will be responsible for identifying emerging development issues, managing a team of economists, and overseeing the production of reports and studies that inform international policy. The role also involves providing substantive support to intergovernmental bodies, representing the organization at various meetings, and developing relationships with senior officials in member governments. The Senior Economic Officer will be expected to contribute to the organization's medium-term planning and budget formulation, ensuring that the unit's work aligns with broader organizational goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Economic Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including leading the formulation and management of economic analysis programs, supervising a team of economists, and commissioning external studies. The officer will also be tasked with organizing expert group meetings and consultations, finalizing reports on investment for development, and preparing speeches for senior staff. Additionally, the officer will provide direct support to intergovernmental bodies, manage contributions to meetings, and negotiate technical assistance programs with governments. The role requires the officer to function as the head of an organizational unit, contributing to the overall program of work and addressing administrative matters as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in economics, demonstrated through an advanced university degree (Master’s or Doctorate) in economics or a related field. A first-level degree with additional relevant work experience may be accepted. The position requires a minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in economic research and analysis, with at least seven years specifically in international investment for development. Experience in policy formulation and application of economic principles in development programs is essential, along with a record of publications in the field.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s or Doctorate) in economics or related fields is required. Alternatively, a first-level degree (Bachelor’s) with two additional years of relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background is critical for understanding complex economic issues and contributing effectively to the organization's objectives.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in economic research and analysis, with a specific focus on international investment for development. Candidates should have a proven track record in policy formulation and the application of economic principles in development programs. Experience dealing with investment policies at the international level is desirable, as is a record of publications on international investment for development.

Languages:
The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French. For this position, proficiency in English and French is required, with Spanish also being beneficial. Candidates must demonstrate a high level of proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in these languages, as per the UN Language Framework.

Additional Notes:
This position is funded through a project, and the appointment is subject to the availability of funds and budgetary approval. The United Nations emphasizes the importance of diversity and encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups. The organization is committed to creating an inclusive environment and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. The recruitment process adheres to strict standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity, and candidates will be evaluated based on their qualifications and organizational needs.