Systems Design & Development Economics Analyst

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Sri Lanka was established to support the country in achieving sustainable development goals through innovative solutions and partnerships. The organization has been operational since 1966 and has a significant presence in over 170 countries worldwide. UNDP focuses on various areas including poverty reduction, democratic governance, crisis prevention and recovery, and environmental sustainability. In Sri Lanka, UNDP has been instrumental in establishing the Citra Lab, which serves as a social innovation lab aimed at transforming public sector operations and enhancing governance through innovative practices. The organization employs a diverse workforce and collaborates with multiple stakeholders including government entities, civil society, and the private sector to drive systemic change and development.

Job Overview:
The Systems Design & Development Economics Analyst will play a crucial role in the Citra Lab, which is focused on public sector transformation and sustainable development in Sri Lanka. This position involves conducting thorough systems analysis to identify inefficiencies and propose innovative solutions that can drive systemic change. The analyst will apply systems thinking methodologies to design integrated solutions that address the root causes of systemic issues. Additionally, the role includes conducting research on development economics to inform Citra's interventions and collaborating with government partners to ensure that policies are practical and aligned with national priorities. The analyst will also be responsible for monitoring and evaluating the implementation of these policies to ensure they achieve desired outcomes. This position requires a proactive approach to partnership development, knowledge management, and dissemination of best practices within the public sector.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct thorough systems analysis to understand the current state of public sector operations, identify inefficiencies, and propose innovative solutions.
• Apply systems thinking methodologies to design integrated and holistic solutions that address root causes of systemic issues.
• Mainstream systems thinking and portfolio logic across various teams within UNDP Sri Lanka.
• Conduct research on development economics, focusing on the economic and social challenges facing Sri Lanka.
• Analyze economic data and trends to inform the design and implementation of policies and programs.
• Collaborate with government partners and stakeholders to ensure policies are practical, feasible, and aligned with national priorities.
• Monitor and evaluate the implementation of policies to ensure they achieve desired outcomes and make necessary adjustments.
• Prepare and submit regular reports on the progress and impact of systems design and development economics initiatives to stakeholders.
• Identify and secure funding opportunities to support systems design and development economics initiatives. 1
• Develop partnerships with local and international organizations to expand the reach and impact of Citra Lab's work. 1
• Establish a knowledge management system to capture and share best practices, lessons learned, and success stories. 1
• Create platforms for knowledge exchange among public sector employees, fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation. 1
• Engage in joint resource mobilization and writing/coordinating proposals to enhance Citra's resource pipeline for public sector innovation and digital projects. 1
• Perform other duties within their functional profile as deemed necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organization.

Required Qualifications:

• Advanced University degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in development studies, development economics, international relations, public policy, governance, or a related area.
• Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in combination with an additional two years of qualifying experience will be considered in lieu of the advanced university degree.
• Applicants with a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field of study are not required to have professional work experience.
• Applicants with a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) are required to have a minimum of two (2) years of relevant professional experience in innovation, management, project coordination, or a related area.
• Experience in innovation and project management is preferred.
• Experience with multi-stakeholder coordination and working with multiple stakeholders in the context of socioeconomics, development economics, and innovation or related area is preferred.
• Experience in digital transformation, economics and development research, and systems design initiatives will be an asset.
• Prior experience working in an innovation lab, economic research, design thinking, and systemic design will be an asset.
• Prior work experience with UN entity or development organization will be an added advantage.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in fields such as development studies, development economics, international relations, public policy, governance, or a related area. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) combined with two additional years of qualifying experience will be considered in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate possesses the necessary theoretical knowledge and analytical skills to effectively contribute to the objectives of the Citra Lab and the broader goals of UNDP.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience if holding a Bachelor’s degree. Those with a Master’s degree are not required to have prior work experience. Relevant experience includes roles in innovation, management, project coordination, or related areas. Experience in multi-stakeholder coordination, digital transformation, and systems design initiatives is preferred. Candidates with prior experience in an innovation lab or with UN entities will have an advantage, as this background will provide valuable insights into the operational dynamics and challenges faced in public sector transformation.

Languages:
Fluency in Sinhala and/or Tamil is mandatory, along with excellent English communication skills. This linguistic proficiency is essential for effective collaboration with local stakeholders and for the dissemination of knowledge and best practices within the public sector. The ability to communicate in multiple languages will enhance the candidate's effectiveness in engaging with diverse partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is part of a transformative initiative under the UNDP and the Prime Minister’s Office in Sri Lanka. The role is expected to contribute significantly to the operationalization of Citra 3.0, which focuses on public sector innovation and systems transformation. The position may involve collaboration with various ministries and stakeholders, requiring a flexible and adaptive approach to work. The UNDP is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and encourages applications from diverse backgrounds. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and adheres to strict standards against harassment and discrimination.