Economic Affairs Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Strategic Engagement and Policy Integration Branch of the Financing for sustainable-development-office" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Sustainable Development Office (FSDO), which is part of the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) of the United Nations. The FSDO is dedicated to providing coherent and integrated support to Member States in addressing financing for development issues and the means of implementation for achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The office plays a crucial role in facilitating discussions and negotiations among member states regarding financing strategies and policies. More information about the office can be found on the United Nations website dedicated to financing for sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The Economic Affairs Officer will be responsible for conducting economic or sector analysis related to financing for sustainable development. This includes monitoring economic developments, identifying emerging issues, and drafting reports on key action areas such as the Sevilla Commitment and the Addis Ababa Action Agenda. The officer will also develop policy recommendations, formulate proposals for development strategies, and organize expert group meetings and seminars on relevant issues. The role requires active participation in intergovernmental processes, providing substantive support to bodies like the General Assembly and the Economic and Social Council, and preparing inputs for meetings and presentations. The officer will also support junior staff and participate in broader departmental initiatives, ensuring effective collaboration and communication within the team.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Economic Affairs Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Monitoring economic developments related to financing for sustainable development and identifying recurrent and emerging issues of concern to the United Nations.
• Designing and conducting studies on selected economic development issues and drafting reports.
• Developing draft policy recommendations and formulating proposals for development strategies.
• Attending international, regional, and national meetings to engage with representatives of other institutions.
• Organizing expert group meetings and seminars on financing for sustainable development.
• Conducting research and policy analysis, drafting reports, and preparing inputs for senior officials.
• Providing substantive support to intergovernmental bodies and preparing summary reports of intergovernmental meetings.
• Supporting the organization of panels and round tables on development issues.
• Representing the organizational unit at various meetings and events. 1
• Supporting junior staff and participating in training activities. 1
• Performing other related duties as required, including administrative tasks necessary for the work unit's service delivery.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of international policy-making processes, particularly those related to financing for sustainable development. They should demonstrate analytical skills and the ability to apply economic theories and concepts in various sectors. The role requires independent research capabilities, the ability to assess data validity, and a commitment to gender perspectives in all areas of work. Candidates should also exhibit professionalism, effective communication skills, and a collaborative approach to teamwork, valuing the input of colleagues and supporting group decisions.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in economics or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in economic research and analysis, policy formulation, and the application of economic principles in development programs is required. Candidates must have experience in financing for development issues and supporting intergovernmental processes related to these topics. Additionally, experience in organizing and coordinating high-level intergovernmental meetings and events on financing for development at the international level is essential, along with experience working at the country or regional level.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, proficiency in English is required, with a minimum level of proficiency as per the UN Language Framework. Candidates should demonstrate strong reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills in English, with French being a desirable additional language.

Additional Notes:
This position is funded through extrabudgetary resources and is initially for a period of one year, subject to availability of funds and budgetary approval. External candidates will undergo a probationary period of one year under a fixed-term appointment. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Staff members are expected to adhere to the authority of the Secretary-General and may be assigned to various functions in accordance with established rules. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and the United Nations does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts.