Chief of Service, Economic Affairs

Job Posting Organization:
The position is within the Economic Analysis and Policy Division (EAPD) of the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) of the United Nations. DESA was established to provide analysis and policy advice on global economic trends and macroeconomic policies. The division plays a crucial role in supporting long-term development strategies and serves as the Secretariat for the Committee for Development Policy. The organization is committed to fostering sustainable development and addressing global economic challenges through comprehensive analysis and policy formulation. It operates in multiple countries and engages with various stakeholders to promote economic and social development.

Job Overview:
The Chief of the Global Economic Monitoring Branch is responsible for formulating and implementing the substantive work programme of the Branch. This role involves overseeing the management of activities, ensuring timely execution of programmed activities, and coordinating work across different areas within the Branch, Division, and Department, as well as with other UN organizations. The Chief leads the publication of key reports such as the World Economic Situation and Prospects and provides thought leadership on economic and analytical activities. The position requires preparing responses to requests from senior management and ensuring high-quality outputs that meet the required standards. The Chief also assists in preparing the work programme, determining priorities, and managing resources effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Chief of Branch has a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Formulating and implementing the work programme of the Branch.
• Overseeing management activities and ensuring timely execution of programmed activities.
• Leading the publication of the DESA flagship reports and coordinating related activities with other UN bodies.
• Providing programmatic and substantive reviews of drafts prepared by others.
• Preparing responses to requests for input on economic issues from senior management and other stakeholders.
• Ensuring high-quality standards for all outputs produced by the Branch.
• Assisting the Director in preparing the work programme and managing resources.
• Undertaking administrative tasks necessary for the functioning of the Branch, including budget preparation and staff performance evaluation.
• Recruiting and training staff, fostering teamwork, and managing expert group meetings and seminars. 1
• Representing the Branch in internal and external meetings and providing substantive expertise as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a deep understanding of global macroeconomic issues, including trends in output, employment, inflation, trade, and international finance. They should demonstrate the ability to produce high-quality reports and policy briefs, as well as review and edit the work of others. Competence in quantitative research and analysis is essential, along with the ability to apply UN rules and regulations effectively. Candidates should exhibit professionalism, teamwork, planning and organizing skills, leadership qualities, and performance management capabilities.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in macroeconomics, quantitative economics, econometrics, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of fifteen years of progressively responsible experience in global economic analyses is required, preferably in a policy-oriented environment. Candidates should have extensive knowledge of macroeconomics and international economics, along with experience in providing leadership to a team of economists. Experience in international or regional intergovernmental organizations is desirable, as is experience in leading the preparation of publications and analytical products.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations, and proficiency in French is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until 31 March 2027, with the possibility of extension. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance in its staff and encourages female candidates to apply. The position may be limited to internal candidates and requires staff members to submit a financial disclosure statement. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment.