Senior Economics Affairs Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Division on International Trade and Commodities at the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). UNCTAD was established in 1964 and aims to promote the integration of developing countries into the world economy. It operates in over 190 countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to fostering sustainable development through trade, investment, and technology.

Job Overview:
The Senior Economics Affairs Officer will play a pivotal role in leading and managing economic analysis programs related to competition and consumer protection policies. This position requires a deep understanding of economic theories and the ability to connect these theories with practical policy applications in areas such as the digital economy and international transport. The officer will be responsible for formulating strategies and policies that can be adopted by the international community, particularly in the context of multilateral trade agendas. The role also involves supervising a team, commissioning economic studies, and preparing reports and presentations for various stakeholders, including intergovernmental bodies and senior officials. The officer will provide substantive support on development issues and manage contributions to intergovernmental meetings, ensuring that the organization's objectives are met effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Economics Affairs Officer will lead the formulation and management of economic analysis programs, focusing on competition and consumer protection policies. Responsibilities include identifying emerging development issues, supervising staff, commissioning external economic studies, and organizing expert meetings. The officer will also provide direct support to intergovernmental bodies, manage the work unit's contributions to meetings, and represent the organization at various international forums. Additionally, the officer will develop relationships with member governments, facilitate negotiations on technical assistance programs, and contribute to the formulation of the Branch's medium-term plan and budget. Administrative duties such as staff recruitment and other related tasks will also be part of the role.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in economic research and analysis, with a minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in policy formulation within development programs. Experience in coordinating policy formulation across various trade and economic areas is desirable. The role requires a comprehensive understanding of competition and consumer protection policies and their implications for sustainable development. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to conduct independent research, supervise teams, and manage complex projects effectively.

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 experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of economic policies and their application in international contexts.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in economic research and analysis, with a focus on policy formulation in development programs. Additionally, candidates should have at least seven years of international experience in designing and leading technical and capacity-building initiatives related to trade and development. Experience in coordinating large intergovernmental deliberation processes is also desirable, highlighting the need for strong leadership and organizational skills.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Additionally, proficiency in either French, Chinese (Mandarin), Russian, Spanish, or Arabic is desirable, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in these languages. This multilingual requirement reflects the diverse nature of the United Nations and its operations.

Additional Notes:
This is a project-funded position with an initial duration until 31 July 2026, contingent upon the availability of funds. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance in its staff, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. Candidates should be aware that this temporary assignment does not guarantee a fixed-term appointment after its conclusion. The position may involve periodic relocation to different duty stations as per the organization's mobility policies. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and is committed to maintaining the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity.