Economic Affairs Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) was established to promote economic and social development in African countries. ECA's mission is to deliver ideas and actions for an empowered and transformed Africa, informed by the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 206

• The organization operates with a focus on five strategic directions: advancing its position as a premier knowledge institution, developing macroeconomic and structural policy options, designing innovative financing models, contributing solutions to regional challenges, and advocating Africa's position at the global level. ECA is headquartered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to addressing the continent's challenges and opportunities.

Job Overview:
The Economic Affairs Officer position is located within the Regional Integration and Trade Division (RITD) of ECA. The officer will work under the guidance of the Director of the division and report directly to the Chief of the Regional Integration and Economic Diversification Section. The role involves conducting economic or sector analysis, developing socio-economic databases, and preparing policy papers focused on Africa's economic and trade integration. The officer will also interpret econometric models to analyze trends and policy impacts, draft technical papers, and engage in intergovernmental support by preparing reports and organizing meetings. The position requires participation in missions, organizing training seminars, and providing technical assistance to various stakeholders, including the African Union and regional economic communities. The officer will also be responsible for administrative tasks and training activities, ensuring effective collaboration with colleagues and external partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Economic Affairs Officer will carry out a range of functions, including: developing socio-economic databases and qualitative information for assignments; conducting technical studies and preparing policy papers on economic integration and diversification; interpreting econometric models to analyze economic trends; drafting inputs for technical papers and analytical studies; attending meetings to gather information and engage with other institutions; organizing expert group meetings and seminars; preparing speeches and presentations for senior staff; providing inputs for reports to intergovernmental bodies; assisting in the organization of panels and round tables; participating in missions on development issues; organizing training seminars; preparing documentation for technical cooperation projects; monitoring and assessing the implementation of technical cooperation programs; and providing advisory services to relevant institutions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in economics or related fields. A first-level degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) may be accepted with two additional years of relevant work experience. A PhD is considered an advantage, as is successful completion of programs in data analytics or related fields. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of economic theories and concepts, as well as the ability to conduct independent research and analyze data effectively. Professionalism, communication skills, and teamwork are essential competencies for this role.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in economics or related fields. A first-level degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) may be accepted if accompanied by two additional years of relevant work experience. A PhD is advantageous, and completion of programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is also beneficial.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in economic research and analysis, policy formulation, or related areas is required. Candidates should have exposure to regional integration, industrialization, investment, trade, and value chains. Experience in conducting and publishing interdisciplinary research in these areas is desirable, as is familiarity with regional integration issues in developing countries.

Languages:
Fluency in English or French is required, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of the other language is desirable, and proficiency in another UN official language is considered an advantage. Candidates must meet the minimum required level for reading, writing, listening, and speaking in these languages according to the UN Language Framework.

Additional Notes:
The appointment is for an initial period of one year, subject to availability of the post or funds. Staff members are expected to move periodically to new functions in their careers. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization promotes a diverse and inclusive environment and does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process. Reasonable accommodation may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.