Chief of Section, Statistics

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) was established to promote the economic and social development of its member states, and to foster regional integration. ECA's mission is to deliver ideas and actions for an empowered and transformed Africa, informed by the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Agenda 206

• The organization operates in multiple countries across Africa, focusing on various strategic directions including advancing knowledge, developing macroeconomic policies, and advocating for Africa's position in global governance. The African Centre for Statistics (ACS) is a key component of ECA, responsible for improving the production and dissemination of quality data and statistics to support evidence-based policymaking across the continent. The ACS is divided into four main sections, each focusing on different statistical domains, and is led by a Director who reports to the Deputy Executive Secretary (Programme).

Job Overview:
The Chief of Section, Statistics, is a senior position within the African Centre for Statistics at UNECA, responsible for overseeing the Economic, Infrastructure, and Agriculture Statistics section. The incumbent will lead the section's work program, ensuring the quality and accuracy of statistical data collected and disseminated. This role involves providing both technical and managerial supervision, supporting national statistical offices, and designing innovative statistical methodologies. The Chief will also be responsible for developing predictive economic models and data science products, guiding team members in data analysis, and conducting methodological research to modernize statistical systems in member countries. The position requires a proactive approach to capacity building, technical advisory activities, and the preparation of publications and reports. The Chief will represent UNECA at international meetings and advise senior management on relevant trends and developments in the field of statistics.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Statistician will be responsible for a wide range of duties including: planning and directing the section's work program on economic, infrastructure, environment, and agriculture statistical analysis; ensuring data quality for accuracy and consistency; supporting national statistical offices with innovative tools; designing predictive models and data science products; guiding team members in data analysis; conducting methodological research; preparing publications and technical documentation; planning technical advisory activities for capacity building; supervising the development of new statistical methods; preparing progress reports; maintaining cooperation with national and international institutions; representing the organization at meetings; advising senior management; managing staff performance; and ensuring accessibility and integration of data for decision-making.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in statistics, mathematics, econometrics, economics, sociology, or a related field. The position requires advanced technical skills in statistical analysis and methodologies, as well as experience in managing statistical projects and teams. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to improving statistical capabilities and standards, with a focus on gender perspectives and inclusivity in their work. Strong communication and leadership skills are essential, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in statistics, mathematics, econometrics, economics, sociology, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with two years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable. A university degree in Data Science or a related area will be considered an added advantage.

Experience:
A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in the collection, compilation, analysis, and dissemination of statistical data or related areas is required. Candidates should have experience in national accounts compilation, using survey data and administrative sources, and applying modern methodologies including artificial intelligence. Experience in providing technical assistance and delivering capacity-building activities is also desired, along with a background in data analytics or related fields.

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 another UN official language is considered an advantage.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until the regular filling of the post. If the selected candidate is a staff member from the United Nations Secretariat, the selection will be administered as a temporary assignment. The position may be limited to candidates based at the duty station and may prioritize internal candidates. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process and is dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive environment.