Principal Economic Affairs Officer

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Principal Economic Affairs Officer
Location: Addis Ababa
Country: Ethiopia
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) was established to promote economic and social development in Africa. ECA's mission is to deliver ideas and actions for an empowered and transformed Africa, informed by the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 206

• The organization operates with a focus on advancing its position as a premier knowledge institution, developing macroeconomic and structural policy options, and advocating for Africa's position at the global level. ECA is divided into various divisions, including the Gender, Poverty and Social Policy Division (GPSPD), which is responsible for promoting gender equality and women's empowerment across the continent. ECA employs a diverse workforce and operates in multiple countries across Africa, contributing to regional and transboundary challenges.

Job Overview:
The Principal Economic Affairs Officer will be responsible for formulating and implementing the substantive work programme of the Gender, Poverty and Social Policy Division (GPSPD) at ECA. This role involves overseeing the management of activities undertaken by the Division, ensuring timely execution of programmed activities, and coordinating work across different areas within the Division and with other UN organizations. The incumbent will provide support to Member States and intergovernmental organizations in designing and implementing policies related to poverty, inequality, gender equality, and social protection. The position requires a strong focus on economic development and the ability to lead and supervise economic and social research to enhance policy frameworks for sustainable development. The officer will also prepare reports for intergovernmental bodies and ensure high-quality outputs that meet required standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Principal Economic Affairs Officer will perform a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Formulating and implementing the substantive work programme of the Division.
• Overseeing the management of activities and ensuring timely execution of programmed activities.
• Coordinating work across different sections and agencies within the UN system.
• Supporting Member States in designing and implementing policies related to poverty, gender equality, and social protection.
• Preparing reports for intergovernmental bodies and ensuring high-quality standards in outputs.
• Leading economic and social research to improve capacities of policymakers.
• Preparing the work programme of the Division, determining priorities, and allocating resources.
• Managing administrative tasks necessary for the functioning of the Division, including budget preparation and staff evaluations.
• Recruiting staff and fostering teamwork within the Division. 1
• Organizing meetings and seminars on substantive issues and representing the Division at various meetings.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in economic research and analysis, social policy formulation, and international development. A minimum of fifteen years of progressively responsible experience in these fields is required. Senior-level experience in programme and project planning and management, particularly in socio-economic areas related to gender and social policies, is essential. A strong record of influencing public policy at various levels is desirable, along with extensive international experience, particularly in developing countries. Experience in data analytics or related areas is also advantageous.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in economics, development, business or public administration, finance, accounting, law, social sciences combined with economics, or a related area 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. A Doctorate in economics, social policy, or related areas is considered an advantage.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of fifteen years of progressively responsible experience in relevant fields such as economic research, social policy formulation, and international development. Candidates should have senior-level experience in programme and project planning and management, particularly in socio-economic areas related to gender and social policies. A strong record of influencing public policy at national, regional, or international levels is desirable, along with extensive international experience, especially in developing countries.

Languages:
Fluency in English or French is required for this position, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of the other language is desirable. Additionally, knowledge of another official United Nations language is considered an advantage.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to the authority of the Secretary-General and may require staff to move periodically to new functions in their careers. The United Nations is committed to achieving a 50/50 gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment. Reasonable accommodation may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.