UN Economist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development System was restructured on January 1, 2019, under the leadership of the UN Secretary-General to enhance its effectiveness in achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This reform led to the establishment of the UN Resident Coordinator Offices (UN RCO), which are tasked with supporting countries in their development priorities. The UN Development Operations Coordination Office (DCO) was transformed into a stand-alone office responsible for overseeing the resident coordinator system. The DCO's functions include managerial oversight and ensuring alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Group's priorities. The organization emphasizes a data-driven, innovative approach to development, focusing on economic transformation and sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The UN Economist position is critical for providing substantive support and evidence-based analysis regarding the progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The role involves economic and policy analysis to assist the Resident Coordinator (RC) and the United Nations Country Team (UNCT) in accelerating SDG progress, promoting economic transformation, and enhancing SDG financing. The Economist will collaborate with various stakeholders, including government entities, International Financial Institutions (IFIs), and the private sector, to foster partnerships that advance sustainable economic development. The position also entails contributing to integrated UN country-level analysis and programming processes, thereby ensuring that economic considerations are effectively integrated into development strategies and initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a range of duties, including:

• Providing substantive support for evidence-based analysis of progress towards the SDGs, focusing on economic transformation and financing.
• Supporting the RC and UNCT in developing partnerships with national and international stakeholders to advance SDG acceleration.
• Conducting economic analysis to inform integrated UN country-level planning and programming processes.
• Contributing to knowledge generation and management regarding sustainable development trends and challenges.
• Engaging with various stakeholders to facilitate collaboration on economic transformation and SDG financing.
• Supporting the development and implementation of the Common Country Analysis (CCA) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF).
• Monitoring economic developments and their implications for sustainable development at the country level.
• Documenting lessons learned and promoting knowledge-sharing within the UNCT.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in Economics. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of programs in data analytics or related fields is advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of sustainable development theories and possess the ability to conduct independent research and analysis. Familiarity with various research sources and analytical methodologies is essential, along with the ability to convey complex information effectively to management.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in Economics is required for this position. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted. Completion of degree or non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is considered an advantage.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in economic research and analysis, macroeconomic or socioeconomic policy, or development economics is required. Candidates should have experience in conducting economic and policy analysis and translating development trends into actionable policy recommendations. Experience in SDG financing and development finance is desirable, as is experience in supporting strategic planning and policy development with government institutions and development partners. Familiarity with inclusive approaches that consider gender equality and other social factors in economic analysis is also preferred.

Languages:
English and Russian are required for this position, with English being mandatory. Proficiency in Belarusian is desirable. Candidates must demonstrate a minimum level of proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking for each language according to the UN Language Framework.

Additional Notes:
This is a Fixed Term position for a duration of one year, with no expectation of renewal. The appointment is subject to budgetary approval and the availability of the post. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. This position is open only to nationals of Belarus, and candidates must possess knowledge of the national context and language. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.