Economic Affairs Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) is dedicated to delivering innovative ideas and actions aimed at empowering and transforming Africa. Established to address the continent's unique challenges, ECA operates under the guiding principles of the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 206

• The organization focuses on five strategic directions: enhancing its role as a premier knowledge institution, developing macroeconomic policies for economic diversification, implementing innovative financing models, addressing regional challenges, and advocating for Africa's position in global governance. ECA's Climate Change, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Food Security and Natural Resources Division (CFND) plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable development through effective management of land and natural resources, with a focus on climate resilience and food security. The division is structured into three main sections: the African Climate Policy Centre, the Natural Resources and Green and Blue Economy Section, and the Land and Agricultural Transformation Section. The ECA is headquartered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and employs a diverse workforce committed to the organization's mission across various countries in Africa.

Job Overview:
The Economic Affairs Officer position is situated within the Land and Agricultural Transformation Section (LATS) of the ECA. The officer will work under the direct supervision of the Chief of LATS and the overall guidance of the Director of CFND. The role involves conducting economic and sector analysis, monitoring developments in Africa's land and agri-food systems, and identifying key issues relevant to the United Nations. The officer will design and conduct research studies on land, agricultural transformation, and food security, drafting reports and policy recommendations based on findings. The position requires participation in international, regional, and national meetings, as well as organizing expert group meetings and seminars on development issues. The officer will also provide substantive support to intergovernmental bodies and represent the organizational unit at various meetings. Additionally, the role includes designing and monitoring technical cooperation projects, conducting training seminars, and supporting junior staff within the division.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Economic Affairs Officer will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Conducting economic or sector analysis by monitoring developments in Africa’s land and agri-food systems and identifying emerging issues.
• Designing and conducting research studies related to land, agricultural transformation, and food security, and drafting reports based on the findings.
• Interpreting research results to analyze policies related to land and agriculture.
• Developing draft policy recommendations for land, agriculture, and food security.
• Formulating proposals for development strategies and measures for presentation to intergovernmental bodies.
• Attending international, regional, and national meetings to engage with representatives of other institutions.
• Organizing expert group meetings and seminars on development issues.
• Preparing speeches and inputs for presentations by senior staff.
• Providing substantive support on economic issues to intergovernmental bodies. 1
• Representing the organizational unit at various meetings. 1
• Designing and monitoring technical cooperation projects in land management, agriculture, and food security. 1
• Undertaking missions to member states as part of technical cooperation activities. 1
• Preparing analyses to advise national governments on land and agricultural transformation issues. 1
• Conducting training seminars and workshops for government officials. 1
• Supporting junior staff by reviewing their work and providing feedback. 1
• Participating in broader intra- and inter-Division initiatives. 1
• Performing various administrative tasks necessary for the delivery of the work unit’s services. 1
• Engaging in on-the-job training activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong foundation in economic theories and concepts related to agricultural and food systems transformation and land management. The ability to conduct independent research, assess the validity and accuracy of data, and identify sources for data collection is essential. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, efficiency, and a commitment to gender perspectives in their work. Teamwork and collaboration with colleagues to achieve organizational goals are crucial, as is the ability to plan and organize effectively, adjusting priorities as necessary and using time efficiently.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in economics, agricultural economics, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in research, policy analysis, advocacy, technical assistance, and capacity development in agricultural development, food systems transformation, and land management is required. Specific experience in developing and leading technical cooperation projects in agro-industrialization, trade, and climate-resilient food systems is desirable. Experience in data analytics or related areas is also desirable, particularly if it encompasses two years or more.

Languages:
Fluency in English or French is required for this position, as these are the working languages of the UN Secretariat. Knowledge of the other language is desirable, and proficiency in an additional language is also considered an asset.

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 geographical diversity in its staff, encouraging female candidates to apply. The organization emphasizes the importance of efficiency, competence, and integrity in its recruitment process, ensuring that all employment decisions are based on qualifications and organizational needs. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process. The UN does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.