Development Coordination Officer / Economist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development System was reformed on January 1, 2019, to enhance its effectiveness in achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UN Resident Coordinator Offices (UN RCO) play a crucial role in this reform, led by an independent UN Resident Coordinator who represents the UN Secretary-General and oversees the UN Development System at the country level. The organization aims to support countries in achieving their development priorities and the SDGs, operating in various countries worldwide with a focus on sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The Development Coordination Officer / Economist position is located within the United Nations Resident Coordination Office (RCO) in Niamey, Niger. This role involves providing substantive advice and evidence-based analysis on the status of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and supporting the UN Resident Coordinator (RC) and UN Country Team (UNCT) in their efforts to accelerate SDG achievement. The officer will engage in research, analysis, and policy development related to economic transformation, SDG financing, and sustainable development practices. The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including government counterparts, international financial institutions, and the private sector, to foster partnerships and advocate for effective economic policies that align with the SDGs.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Plan, facilitate, and consolidate evidence-based analysis of the SDGs, providing advice on SDG acceleration and economic transformation.
• Support advocacy efforts for partnerships with national counterparts and relevant partners to reframe economic policies around SDG financing.
• Coordinate the development of an integrated SDG programming cycle, ensuring strong engagement on SDG acceleration and financing.
• Manage knowledge around SDG acceleration and economic transformation, promoting collaboration and sharing best practices.
• Collect and analyze data to identify trends and provide insights for decision-making.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of sustainable development theories and concepts, with the ability to analyze and resolve complex issues. They should demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and leadership skills, with a commitment to gender equality and diversity in the workplace. The role requires excellent planning and organizational abilities, as well as the capacity to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in economics is required. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Completion of programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is advantageous.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in sustainable development policy, economic research, and analysis is required. Experience in coordinating multi-stakeholder processes and participatory assessments is essential. Familiarity with development financing and SDG financing is desirable, as is experience working within the United Nations or similar organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French is required for this position, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another official UN language is considered an advantage. Fluency is defined as a rating of 'fluent' in all four areas (reading, writing, speaking, understanding).

Additional Notes:
The appointment is for an initial period of one year, subject to availability of the post or funds. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Internal applicants must ensure their profiles are complete and up to date. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.