Consultant for Technical Study on SDR Rechanneling Opportunities

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), which was established to promote economic and social development in African countries. ECA aims to foster regional integration and cooperation among African nations, providing a platform for dialogue and collaboration on economic issues. The organization works with various stakeholders, including governments, regional organizations, and international partners, to address challenges and opportunities in the continent's development. ECA has a significant presence across Africa, with its headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and operates in multiple countries to support sustainable development initiatives.

Job Overview:
The consultant will be responsible for conducting a comprehensive analytical study focused on mapping the opportunities and readiness for rechanneling Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) to support climate action in Africa. This role involves assessing the current landscape of SDRs, identifying countries that are willing and able to rechannel these resources, and evaluating the conditions under which this can occur. The consultant will analyze how rechanneled SDRs can indirectly support climate initiatives through various mechanisms such as liquidity support and concessional financing. The study will cover all 54 African member states, with in-depth case studies of at least eight selected countries, reflecting diverse income groups and climate vulnerabilities. The consultant will also engage with key stakeholders, including international financial institutions and African ministries, to gather insights and validate findings throughout the study process.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake several key responsibilities, including mapping country opportunities and readiness for SDR rechanneling, identifying preferred channels for SDRs, and evaluating how these resources can support climate action. The consultant will produce a clear mapping framework that outlines opportunities, constraints, and strategies for African countries. Structured consultations with relevant institutions will be conducted to gather data and insights. The consultant will present draft findings at validation sessions and respond to feedback from stakeholders. Additionally, the consultant will provide support to the HLWG-GFA secretariat by preparing briefing materials and advocacy tools derived from the study. Monthly progress updates will be submitted to the Deputy Executive Secretary, and the consultant will undertake related tasks as necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Economics, Finance, Environmental Economics, or a related field. A first-level university degree combined with at least two additional years of relevant professional experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. A PhD in a related field is desirable. Furthermore, candidates should have a minimum of fifteen years of progressively responsible experience in macroeconomic policy, development finance, or economic research. A record of published analytical work on international financial architecture, sovereign debt, or climate finance is required, along with relevant work experience in developing countries. Experience in policy advisory roles for inter-governmental organizations or governments is also necessary.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in a relevant field such as Economics, Finance, or Environmental Economics. Candidates with a first-level university degree and additional professional experience may be considered. A PhD in a related field is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and research capability in the subject matter.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of fifteen years of progressively responsible experience in areas such as macroeconomic policy, development finance, or economic research. This experience should include a record of published analytical work that is peer-reviewed or institutional, specifically focusing on the international financial architecture, sovereign debt, or climate finance. Relevant work experience in developing countries is essential, as is experience in policy advisory roles for inter-governmental organizations or governments.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations. A working knowledge of French is desirable, as it may facilitate communication with a broader range of stakeholders and enhance the consultant's effectiveness in the role.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to be remote and has a duration of five months. The consultant will be engaged in a full-time capacity, and the recruitment process does not involve any fees at any stage. The United Nations emphasizes that it does not charge applicants for any part of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent hiring procedure.