National Consultant for Public Financial Management Reform

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 enhance the quality of life of African people. UNECA operates in multiple countries across Africa, focusing on various sectors including economic policy, trade, and sustainable development. The organization employs a diverse workforce of professionals dedicated to addressing the continent's challenges and opportunities.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant for Public Financial Management (PFM) Reform will play a crucial role in supporting the Government of Botswana in its efforts to enhance its PFM system. This position involves collaborating with the lead consultant to develop a comprehensive Prioritization and Sequencing Plan for PFM reform actions. The consultant will engage with various stakeholders, including Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), to ensure alignment and effective communication throughout the reform process. The consultant's work will contribute to the successful implementation of Botswana's four-year PFM transformation programme, which aims to address structural weaknesses identified by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and improve fiscal discipline and macroeconomic stability. The consultant will be responsible for facilitating stakeholder consultations, collecting data, and providing technical inputs to ensure the timely delivery of outputs, including reports and workshop materials.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Consultant will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: supporting the lead consultant in conducting a desk review to inform the drafting of the PFM reform report; collecting data and providing technical inputs for various outputs; facilitating stakeholder engagement through the organization of meetings and workshops; contributing to the drafting of the final report and ensuring its endorsement by the government; providing operational support during consultations to foster effective participation and consensus-building; monitoring progress against assignment timelines; integrating stakeholder feedback into revised documents; and documenting lessons learned throughout the consultation process. The consultant will also assist in identifying quick wins and practical implementation considerations relevant to Botswana's institutional context, ensuring that the reform actions are sustainable and aligned with national priorities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in economics or a related field. A PhD in economics or a related field is desirable. Additionally, a minimum of five years of progressive experience in economic analysis, fiscal policy, or Public Financial Management is required. The ability to work effectively with senior government officials, development partners, and technical experts is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of Botswana's government institutional arrangements and public administration systems, as well as experience in supporting PFM reforms or fiscal policy initiatives in Botswana or the Southern African region. Strong organizational, facilitation, stakeholder engagement, and communication skills are essential, along with excellent report writing and documentation abilities.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in economics or a related field is required for this position. A PhD degree in economics or a related field is considered an asset, providing candidates with a deeper understanding of economic theories and practices that can be applied to the PFM reform process.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of progressive experience in economic analysis, fiscal policy, or Public Financial Management. Candidates should have a proven track record of working on PFM reforms, governance reforms, or fiscal policy initiatives, particularly within Botswana or the Southern African region. Experience in engaging with government officials and stakeholders is crucial for the successful execution of the role.

Languages:
Fluency in written and oral English is mandatory for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is also beneficial, as it is another working language of the UN, and may enhance communication with a broader range of stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to last for a duration of six months. The consultant will work under the supervision of UNECA and will be required to maintain regular communication with the International Consultant, Ministry of Finance, Office of the Accountant General, and designated Government focal points. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent hiring process.