Economist

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Position Title: Economist
Location: Maldives
Country: Maldives
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN’s global development network, established to advocate for change and connect countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build better lives. UNDP operates in over 170 countries and territories, combining local presence with global expertise. Its mission is to eradicate poverty, accelerate structural transformation, build resilience, and contribute to sustainable development. UNDP has been a long-term development partner of the Maldives for over 45 years, providing technical assistance and policy advisory services to the Government of Maldives in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The Economist position is integral to the UNDP country office in the Maldives, working under the guidance of the Resident Representative and Deputy Resident Representative. The Economist is expected to collaborate closely with program and operations teams, accelerator labs, and the Economist Network in the Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific. This role involves integrating UNDP's activities in the Maldives to maximize development impact, staying attuned to the evolving development landscape, and ensuring that interventions are strategically focused. The Economist will also develop and maintain a professional network across various sectors, including government, academia, and civil society, to facilitate effective collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Economist will lead policy and technical advisory services to strengthen program development and implementation within the UNDP country office. Key responsibilities include advising on the preparation and implementation of country programs, supporting the development of thematic portfolios, conceptualizing and implementing the Development Finance Assessment (DFA), conducting research and analysis in priority thematic areas, and preparing policy briefs and analytical outputs. The Economist will also engage with national government counterparts to provide policy advice, facilitate dialogue on sustainable development issues, and support monitoring and reporting of progress related to SDGs. Representation and advocacy are also crucial, as the Economist will contribute to partnerships with UN agencies and other stakeholders, support resource mobilization, and participate in regional networks to enhance UNDP's impact across the Asia-Pacific region.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in Economics, or a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in Economics with an additional two years of qualifying experience. A Ph.D. in Economics is considered an advantage. Candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of experience (9 years with a bachelor’s degree) in economic research and policy implementation, with extensive experience in policy analysis and advisory roles. Proven experience in preparing high-quality policy briefs and guidance notes for senior policymakers is required, along with strong analytical capabilities and knowledge of the SDGs. Familiarity with data handling and statistical analysis software is desired, and previous work experience in the Maldives or the Asia-Pacific region is an asset.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in Economics is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in Economics combined with two additional years of qualifying experience will be considered. A Ph.D. in Economics is advantageous.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience at the national or international level in economic research and policy implementation, or 9 years with a bachelor’s degree. Extensive experience in research and policy-level analysis is essential, along with proven policy, advisory, and advocacy experience. Experience in preparing high-quality policy briefs for senior policymakers is required, and knowledge of the SDGs and their application at the national level is an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English and Dhivehi is required for this position. Knowledge of additional languages may be beneficial but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The initial appointment is for 12 months, contingent upon successful completion of a probationary period. The position may involve supervising and managing other roles within the office, including a Tax for SDG Coordinator, Project Associate, Public Finance Management Analyst, and Junior Economist/Climate Finance Analyst. UNDP has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and misconduct, and all selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks. UNDP is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from marginalized or excluded populations.