National Economist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global development network established in 1965, with a mission to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and people to address development challenges. The organization focuses on various areas, including democratic governance, peacebuilding, climate change, and sustainable economic growth. UNDP is committed to supporting countries in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and fostering inclusive development that leaves no one behind. The organization employs thousands of staff worldwide, including experts in various fields, to implement its programs and initiatives effectively.

Job Overview:
The National Economist position is crucial for advising UNDP's Senior Management on macroeconomic policies and trends, linking them to UNDP programs. The role involves providing high-quality policy advice, analytical support, and thought leadership to enhance UNDP's capacity in Somalia's economic, development, and social sectors. The National Economist will play a pivotal role in ensuring that UNDP is well-positioned to support national priorities and drive impactful, evidence-based programming. This position is particularly important as Somalia transitions from a complex conflict environment towards sustainable development, requiring strategic economic insights to inform policy and programmatic decisions. The Economist will work closely with government counterparts and other stakeholders to identify alternative economic and development policy options that enhance the impact of UNDP's projects and programs. The role also involves maintaining a network with various partners, including UN agencies, government officials, and civil society, to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide policy advice and support to UNDP and Country Office management on economic and development issues, including compiling and analyzing economic data, conducting research, and preparing reports to promote equitable economic growth and human development.
• Advise government counterparts on economic policies, providing policy options from pro-poor and sustainability perspectives, and contribute to knowledge networks and communities of practice.
• Participate in building strategic partnerships and implementing the Country Office resource mobilization strategy by developing partnerships with UN agencies, government institutions, and civil society, and preparing analytical papers for donor meetings.
• Promote awareness of UNDP's mandate and mission by contributing to policy advocacy for human development and sustainable economic growth, producing high-quality research papers, and managing events and publications on economic issues.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams within UNDP and engage with colleagues from the Regional Bureau and Global Policy Network to ensure alignment with strategic goals and maximize development impact.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in Economics. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree) combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience will be considered. The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience with a Master's degree or 7 years with a Bachelor's degree, including extensive experience in research and policy-level analysis, as well as some experience in the design, monitoring, and evaluation of development projects. Proficiency in using office software and advanced knowledge of web-based management systems and statistical analysis programs are essential. Experience in providing economic advice and research papers is desirable, along with knowledge of macroeconomic policies and their impact on poverty reduction and growth.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in Economics is required. A first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree) may be accepted in combination with additional qualifying experience, specifically two years of relevant work experience for candidates without a Master's degree.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience at the national or international level, which includes extensive experience in research and policy-level analysis. Candidates with a Bachelor's degree must have at least 7 years of relevant experience. Experience in the design, monitoring, and evaluation of development projects is also necessary, along with proficiency in using computers and office software packages. Experience in providing economic advice and analyzing macroeconomic policies will be advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required, along with fluency in the Somali language for local staff. Knowledge of another UN language is desirable, which can enhance communication and collaboration within the UN system and with international partners.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and may involve working in a complex and evolving environment. UNDP is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply. The organization does not tolerate harassment or discrimination and has a strict policy against misconduct. UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions in the future. The recruitment process is free of charge, and candidates are advised to be cautious of scams.