Consultant for National Inclusive Business Landscape Study

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), which was established in 194

• ESCAP's mission is to promote inclusive and sustainable economic and social development in the Asia-Pacific region. The organization operates in 62 member states and territories, focusing on various issues such as trade, investment, innovation, and sustainable development. ESCAP aims to foster regional cooperation and provide a platform for dialogue among member states to address shared challenges and opportunities.

Job Overview:
The consultant will be responsible for conducting a National Landscape Study on Inclusive Business (IB) in Brunei Darussalam. This role involves working closely with the Economic Affairs Officer of the Technology and Innovation Section within the Trade, Investment and Innovation Division (TIID) of ESCAP. The consultant will engage with various stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector representatives, and civil society organizations, to gather data and insights on the current state of inclusive businesses in Brunei. The study aims to assess the enabling environment for inclusive business models, identify opportunities for growth, and provide strategic recommendations to advance the Inclusive Business agenda in the country. The consultant will also supervise a national consultant and ensure the quality and timeliness of the outputs delivered in electronic formats such as Word, Excel, or PowerPoint.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties include agreeing on the study's design and implementation with ESCAP and national counterparts, guiding the national consultant in conducting interviews and assessments, and conducting up to three missions in Brunei Darussalam. The consultant will be responsible for gathering data through interviews with businesses and stakeholders, conducting assessments of inclusive business models, and drafting a comprehensive landscape study report. Specific tasks include identifying potential inclusive business companies, conducting interviews, assessing the enabling environment, and preparing presentations and dissemination materials for the study results. The consultant will also ensure that the study aligns with national development priorities and supports the achievement of Wawasan Brunei 2035.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Economics, International Development, Management, Public Policy, Innovation Policy, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of ten years of progressive experience in promoting social and economic development through research, analysis, and policy formulation is required. Experience in promoting inclusive businesses, social enterprises, or impact investment within the ASEAN region is essential. Familiarity with conducting research and providing policy advice related to ASEAN is desirable, as is experience working in Brunei Darussalam.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in relevant fields such as Economics, International Development, Management, Public Policy, or Innovation Policy. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of inclusive business models and their impact on social and economic development.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of ten years of progressive experience in the field of social and economic development. This experience should encompass research and analysis, policy formulation, and practical application of inclusive business strategies. Candidates with experience in the ASEAN region, particularly in promoting inclusive businesses and social enterprises, will be given preference. Experience working specifically in Brunei Darussalam is also considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as the consultant will be required to communicate effectively with various stakeholders and produce high-quality written reports. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the ASEAN region may be advantageous but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
The consultant will work remotely and from their home base, with expected project duration from May 2026 to January 2027, although the exact dates are subject to confirmation. The position does not involve any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, as the United Nations does not charge applicants for applications, interviews, or training. The consultant will be evaluated based on the quality and timeliness of their work delivery.