UN Economist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945, currently comprising 193 member states. Its mission is to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations, and to foster social and economic development. The UN Development System has undergone significant reforms to enhance its effectiveness in achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UN Resident Coordinator Offices (RCO) play a crucial role in supporting countries to meet their development priorities, ensuring that the UN's efforts are aligned with national needs and global goals. The UN operates in numerous countries worldwide, with a focus on sustainable development, humanitarian assistance, and peacekeeping.

Job Overview:
The UN Economist position is situated within the United Nations Resident Coordination Office (RCO) in Praia, Cabo Verde. The incumbent will report to the Head of RCO and will work closely with various stakeholders, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Policy and Financing Section. The role involves providing substantive economic analysis and evidence-based advice on sustainable development, economic transformation, and SDG financing. The Economist will be responsible for conducting research, analyzing economic and social data, and supporting the UN Country Team (UNCT) in identifying challenges and opportunities for achieving the SDGs. This position requires a strong understanding of economic policies, data-driven decision-making, and the ability to engage with various partners to promote sustainable economic development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Economist will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Conducting substantive economic analysis and providing evidence-based advice on sustainable development and SDG financing. This includes researching and analyzing economic, social, and sustainable development data, identifying trends, and proposing policy options.
• Supporting partnerships and engagement with national counterparts and stakeholders on economic transformation and SDG financing. This involves collaborating with government entities, UN agencies, and development partners to facilitate information sharing and joint analytical work.
• Contributing to the UN sustainable development programming cycle by providing economic analysis for the United Nations Country Analysis (UNCA) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework.
• Engaging in knowledge management and learning activities related to economic transformation and SDG financing, including participating in communities of practice and sharing best practices.
• Performing other related tasks as assigned by the Head of RCO.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree 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, business analytics, or data science is considered an advantage. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of sustainable development theories and concepts, as well as the ability to conduct independent research and analysis. Professionalism, planning and organizing skills, effective communication, and accountability are essential competencies for this role.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Economics is required for this position. Alternatively, a first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. Candidates with successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science will have an advantage in the selection process.

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

Languages:
For this position, proficiency in English and Portuguese is required, with English at UN Level II and Portuguese at UN Level III. Knowledge of Crioulo is desirable but not mandatory. Candidates must demonstrate effective communication skills in both written and spoken forms in these languages, as they are essential for collaboration and engagement with various stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a Fixed Term position available 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 position is open to nationals of Cabo Verde only, and candidates must be recruited within the country or within commuting distance of the office. If no suitable local candidates are identified, Cabo Verde nationals residing elsewhere may be considered. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.