Principal Economic Affairs Officer

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

• The organization operates with a focus on advancing knowledge, developing macroeconomic policies, innovative financing models, and advocating for Africa's position in global governance. ECA is structured into various divisions, including the Gender, Poverty and Social Policy Division (GPSPD), which aims to achieve inclusive and equitable sustainable development in Africa. ECA employs a diverse workforce and operates in multiple countries across the continent, contributing to various 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, ensuring timely execution of programmed activities, and coordinating work within the Division and with other UN organizations. The incumbent will support Member States in designing and implementing policies related to poverty, gender equality, and social protection, among other areas. The position requires a strong focus on economic and social research, technical assistance, and enhancing 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 wide range of responsibilities, including:

• Formulating and implementing the work programme of the Division, ensuring timely execution of activities.
• Coordinating work across different sections and with other UN agencies.
• Supporting Member States in policy design and implementation related to poverty, gender equality, and social protection.
• Preparing reports for intergovernmental bodies and ensuring compliance with mandates.
• Leading economic and social research to improve policymaking capacities.
• Managing administrative tasks, including budget preparation and staff evaluations.
• Recruiting staff and fostering teamwork within the Division.
• Organizing meetings and seminars on substantive issues.
• Representing the Division at various international and regional meetings.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in economics, development, business or public administration, finance, accounting, law, social sciences combined with economics, or a related area. A first-level university degree with additional qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. A Doctorate in relevant fields is considered an advantage. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of economic and social policy issues, particularly in relation to gender and social policies.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in fields such as economics, development, business or public administration, finance, accounting, law, or social sciences combined with economics. A first-level university degree may be accepted with additional qualifying work experience. A Doctorate in economics or related areas is advantageous, indicating a higher level of expertise in the field.

Experience:
A minimum of fifteen years of progressively responsible experience in economic research and analysis, social policy formulation, international development, human resources management, administration, logistics, financial management, or related fields is required. Candidates should have senior-level experience in programme and project planning and management, particularly in socio-economic areas related to gender and social policies. Extensive international experience, especially in developing countries, is desirable, along with experience in data analytics or related areas.

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, enhancing communication and collaboration in a multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to the authority of the Secretary-General and may require staff to move periodically to different functions or duty stations. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities. The evaluation of candidates will be based on the information submitted in their applications, and candidates under serious consideration will undergo reference checks to verify their qualifications.