Chief of Section, Economic Affairs

Job Posting Organization:
The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) is a regional arm of the United Nations established to promote economic and social development in African countries. Its mission is to deliver ideas and actions for an empowered and transformed Africa, guided by the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 206

• ECA operates with a focus on five strategic directions: enhancing its role as a knowledge institution, developing macroeconomic policies, designing innovative financing models, addressing regional challenges, and advocating for Africa's position globally. The organization aims to provide solutions to the continent's problems and facilitate economic diversification and job creation. ECA is headquartered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to advancing Africa's development goals.

Job Overview:
The Chief of Section, Economic Affairs, will play a pivotal role in leading the Technology, Innovation, Connectivity and Infrastructure Division at the ECA. This position involves overseeing the formulation and management of infrastructure analysis programs, particularly in transport and energy sectors. The incumbent will be responsible for identifying emerging development issues, supervising a team of experts, and managing expert group meetings and consultations. The role requires a strong focus on economic analysis, policy formulation, and providing substantive support to intergovernmental bodies. The Chief of Section will also be involved in technical cooperation, developing relationships with member governments, and contributing to the organization's overall program of work and budget formulation. This position demands a strategic thinker who can navigate complex economic issues and advocate for Africa's development needs on a global stage.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the formulation, organization, and management of infrastructure analysis programs, focusing on transport and energy.
• Identify new or emerging development issues related to infrastructure and design programs to address them.
• Supervise a team of transport and energy experts.
• Commission studies and analyses on infrastructure development.
• Organize expert group meetings and consultations to finalize work unit outputs.
• Prepare reports and speeches for senior staff and present economic issues to various audiences.
• Provide substantive support to intergovernmental bodies on development issues, offering strategic advice and technical guidance.
• Manage contributions to meetings of intergovernmental bodies.
• Develop and maintain relations with senior officials of member governments. 1
• Negotiate technical assistance programs and projects with donor and recipient governments. 1
• Lead technical cooperation missions and coordinate cooperation among Member States. 1
• Contribute to the formulation of the annual business plan and budget of the unit. 1
• Attend to administrative matters concerning the organizational unit. 1
• Collect and analyze data to identify trends for data-driven planning and decision-making. 1
• Ensure accessibility and integration of data for effective use.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in economic theories and concepts, particularly in the context of sustainable development. The ability to conduct independent research and analyze data from various sources is essential. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to professional excellence, efficiency, and integrity in their work. Strong organizational skills, accountability, and the ability to empower and manage team performance are also critical. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work under pressure while maintaining a focus on achieving results. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively and represent the organization at various levels.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in economics, engineering, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Additionally, 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 infrastructure (transport or energy) or economic research and analysis is required. Candidates should have hands-on experience in regional infrastructure and services development, particularly in transport and/or energy sectors. Experience in data analytics or related areas is desirable, indicating a strong understanding of how data can inform policy and program development.

Languages:
Fluency in one of the working languages of the UN Secretariat, either English or French, is required, with both oral and written proficiency. Knowledge of the other language is desirable, and familiarity with another UN official language is considered an advantage.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to the authority of the Secretary-General, and staff members are expected to move periodically to new functions in accordance with established rules. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process is free of charge, and the organization does not require any fees at any stage. Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities may be provided upon request. The evaluation of candidates will be based on the information submitted in their applications, and reference checks will be conducted for those under serious consideration.