National Research Consultant for Market Research and Analysis

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) was established in 1973 with the mission to promote economic and social development in the Arab region. ESCWA works to support member states in achieving sustainable development goals through regional cooperation and integration. The organization operates in 17 member countries and employs a diverse workforce of over 200 professionals. ESCWA's activities include policy dialogue, technical assistance, and capacity-building initiatives aimed at enhancing economic governance and development planning across the region.

Job Overview:
The National Research Consultant will play a crucial role in supporting the ESCWA's efforts to enhance competition policy in the Sultanate of Oman, specifically focusing on the building materials sector. The consultant will be responsible for delivering three key outputs over a three-month period, which include organizing evidence and comments, preparing factual research inputs, and conducting editorial reviews of the final report. The consultant will work closely with the Project Manager and the Economic Affairs Officer to ensure that the research is thorough, accurate, and aligned with ESCWA's objectives. This position requires a strong understanding of market dynamics, competition policy, and the ability to synthesize complex information into clear and actionable insights.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties will include reviewing draft sector chapters and organizing comments and supporting evidence, identifying relevant sources, and flagging factual or citation issues. The consultant will also prepare a comments-and-evidence matrix, organize source material relevant to market competition, and develop factual summaries and draft tables. Additionally, the consultant will check citations and figures, maintain a comments-and-response log, and consolidate stakeholder meeting minutes. The consultant will participate in project-related meetings and contribute to other activities under the Economic Governance, Development Planning and Regulatory Modernization workstream as required. The consultant's work will support the overall goal of improving competition and market functioning in the building materials sector.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in economics, public policy, law, business administration, or a related field. A Master's degree in a relevant field is desirable. All applicants are required to submit a copy of their educational degree, as incomplete applications will not be considered. A minimum of one year of professional experience in desk research, evidence organization, reference checking, and meeting documentation is required. Experience in supporting research or analytical work in competition policy or market studies is highly desirable, as it will enhance the consultant's ability to contribute effectively to the project.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as economics, public policy, law, or business administration. A Master's degree is considered an asset and may provide candidates with a competitive advantage. Candidates must provide proof of their educational qualifications as part of the application process, ensuring that they meet the minimum educational requirements set by ESCWA.

Experience:
The position requires at least one year of professional experience in areas related to desk research, evidence organization, and support for analytical reports. Candidates with experience in competition policy, market studies, or related public-policy fields will be preferred, as this experience will be critical in fulfilling the responsibilities of the consultant role effectively. The ability to work collaboratively with project teams and stakeholders is essential, as the consultant will be involved in various aspects of the research process.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Arabic is mandatory for this position, as these are the working languages of ESCWA. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in all four language skills: speaking, reading, writing, and understanding. While French is also a working language of the United Nations Secretariat, it is not a requirement for this position. However, knowledge of French may be considered an asset and could enhance communication within the organization.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment, meaning that candidates must have the legal right to live and work in Lebanon. The contract duration is for three months, and the position is expected to be full-time. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, and applicants should be cautious of any fraudulent activities related to job applications. The consultant will be compensated according to the UN's established rates for consultancy services.