Chief of Section, Economic Affairs

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Position Title: Chief of Section, Economic Affairs
Location: Niamey
Country: Niger
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) was established to deliver ideas and actions for an empowered and transformed Africa, guided by the 2030 Agenda and 206

• The ECA operates with a mission to advance its position as a premier knowledge institution, develop macroeconomic and structural policy options, design innovative financing models, contribute solutions to regional challenges, and advocate Africa's position at the global level. The Sub-regional Office for West Africa (SRO-WA) is located in Niamey, Niger, and is focused on achieving structural transformation for inclusive and sustainable development in West Africa, particularly concerning demographic dynamics.

Job Overview:
The Chief of Section, Economic Affairs position is located within the Sub-Regional Initiatives Section of the ECA's Sub-regional Office for West Africa. The role involves leading and managing economic analysis programs, formulating economic strategies and policies for West African Member States, and addressing emerging development issues. The Chief will supervise a team of economists, oversee economic studies, and manage expert group meetings and consultations. The position also entails providing substantive support to intergovernmental bodies, developing relationships with senior officials, and contributing to the organization's overall program of work. The Chief of Section is expected to demonstrate professionalism, accountability, leadership, and effective performance management.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Chief of Section, Economic Affairs will be responsible for leading the formulation and management of economic analysis programs, identifying new development issues, supervising staff economists, commissioning economic studies, and managing expert consultations. The role includes providing support to intergovernmental bodies, managing meetings, and representing the organization at various levels. Additionally, the Chief will develop relationships with government officials, negotiate technical assistance programs, and coordinate cooperation among Member States. The position also requires contributing to the unit's medium-term plan and budget, attending to administrative matters, and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong ability to apply economic theories and concepts across various sectors, conduct independent research, and develop economic policies. The role requires a high level of professionalism, planning and organizing skills, accountability, leadership capabilities, and performance management skills. The Chief should be able to analyze and interpret data effectively, develop clear goals, and take ownership of responsibilities while ensuring compliance with organizational regulations.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in economics or a related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying work 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.

Experience:
A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in economic research and analysis, policy formulation, and the application of economic principles in development programs is required. Experience in data analytics or related areas is desirable, as is experience in promoting collaborative approaches among diverse partners.

Languages:
Fluency in English or French is required, with knowledge of the other language being desirable. Knowledge of another UN official language is an advantage, reflecting the multilingual environment of the United Nations.

Additional Notes:
The United Nations Secretariat is committed to achieving gender balance and geographical diversity in its staff. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. Staff members are subject to the authority of the Secretary-General and may be assigned to various functions in accordance with established rules. The recruitment process emphasizes the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity, with due regard to geographic diversity. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities. The position may involve periodic moves to different duty stations, and applicants are urged to follow all instructions in the online recruitment platform.