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 address global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. The UN Development System, which includes the UN Resident Coordinator Offices (RCO), was reformed in 2019 to enhance its effectiveness in achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The RCO in Bangkok, Thailand, plays a crucial role in supporting countries in their development priorities and ensuring alignment with the SDGs. The UN operates in numerous countries worldwide, employing thousands of staff members dedicated to various missions and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The UN Economist position is integral to the UN Resident Coordination Office in Bangkok, Thailand. The incumbent will provide substantive economic analysis and support evidence-based advice on sustainable development, economic transformation, and SDG financing. This role involves researching and analyzing economic, social, and sustainable development data, identifying challenges and opportunities for policy options, and supporting the implementation of global guidelines related to economic transformation. The economist will work closely with the Resident Coordinator and the UN Country Team to ensure coherence in SDG policy and financing, contributing to the overall mission of the UN in promoting sustainable development. The position requires a strong understanding of economic trends, policy analysis, and the ability to engage with various stakeholders, including government entities, private sector actors, and civil society, to foster partnerships and collaborative efforts towards achieving the SDGs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will perform a variety of duties, including:

• Providing substantive economic analysis and supporting evidence-based advice on sustainable development, economic transformation, and SDG financing. This includes researching and presenting data on economic trends, conducting policy analysis, and preparing briefing materials.
• Supporting partnerships and engagement with national counterparts and stakeholders on economic transformation and SDG financing, facilitating collaboration with government, UN entities, and development partners.
• Contributing economic analysis to the UN sustainable development programming cycle, including the UN Country Analysis and Cooperation Framework.
• Engaging in knowledge management and learning activities related to economic transformation and SDG financing, participating in communities of practice, and documenting lessons learned.
• Conducting data analysis and visualization to support decision-making and reporting.
• Performing other duties as required to support the objectives of the RCO and the UN Country Team.

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 degree and non-degree 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. Familiarity with various research sources and data analysis methods is essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in Economics. Candidates with a first-level university degree may be considered if they have additional qualifying experience. Completion of programs in data analytics or related fields is advantageous, indicating a strong foundation in analytical skills necessary for the role.

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, translating development trends into actionable policy options, and working with various stakeholders in support of sustainable development priorities. Experience in SDG financing and innovative financing approaches is desirable, as is experience in multi-stakeholder coordination mechanisms, particularly within the UN system.

Languages:
English and Thai are required for this position. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in both languages at UN Level II, which includes reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. Knowledge of French is considered an asset but is not mandatory.

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 only to nationals of Thailand, and candidates residing outside Thailand may be considered if no suitable local candidates are identified. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities may be provided upon request.