Economic Affairs Officer - P4

UNCTAD
Geneva - Switzerland
S: Competitive

Org. Setting and Reporting

This position is in the Trade Analysis Branch, Division on International Trade in Goods and
Services, and Commodities of United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

Responsibilities

Under the general guidance of the Chief of Trade Analysis Branch and a direct supervision of the Chief of Trade Policy Research Section, the incumbent will:

ECONOMIC OR SECTOR ANALYSIS:
• Monitors international trade developments and analyzes the impact of multilateral, regional and inter-regional trade on production, employment, prices and trade flows, using econometric models and other modern analytical tools;
• Under the overall research programme of the Branch/Division designs and conducts studies on impacts of non-tariff measures, particularly those facing exports of developing countries;
• Interprets and applies results of econometric modelling and other quantitative analysis to formulating recommendations on trade and development policies of developing countries, particularly of least-developed countries;
• Develops draft policy recommendations pertaining to area of work;
• Formulates proposals for development strategies, policies and measures for presentation to intergovernmental bodies and others;
• Attends international, regional, and national meetings to hold discussions with representatives of other institutions;
• Organizes expert group meetings, seminars, etc. on development issues;
• Prepares speeches and other inputs for presentations by senior staff.

INTERGOVERNMENTAL SUPPORT:
• Provides substantive support on economic issues to intergovernmental bodies (such as the General Assembly, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and its Trade and Development Board, the regional commissions and the subsidiary bodies of each);
• Represents organizational unit at international, regional and national meetings.

TECHNICAL COOPERATION:
• Designs and monitors technical cooperation projects;
• Undertakes missions to member states, either alone or as a participant in a diverse team, as part of the Organization's technical cooperation activities;
• Prepares global, regional, national or sector analyses that provide a basis for advising national governments on economic development issues;
• Conducts training seminars and workshops for government officials and others;
• Formulates technical modalities for the evaluation of individual technical cooperation projects.

GENERAL:
• Supports junior staff, reviewing their work and providing feedback;
• Participates in intra- and inter-Departmental undertakings of broader concern to represent the views or interests of the organizational unit;
• Performs other related duties as required, including a variety of administrative tasks necessary for the final delivery of the work unit's service.;
• Undertakes on-the-job and other training activities, both internally and externally.

Competencies

PROFESSIONALISM: Ability to apply economic theories and concepts in different sectors of economic and trade. Ability to conduct independent research on economic and trade policy topics, particularly on non-tariff measures in trade, and determine suitability, validity and accuracy of data provided by different sources. Ability to identify and develop sources for data collection. Capacity to conduct economic assessments and impact analysis using econometric modelling, other modern analytical tools, software and databases. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.

COMMUNICATION: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.

PLANNING& ORGANIZING: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently.

TECHNOLOGICAL AWARENESS: Keeps abreast of available technology; understands applicability and limitation of technology to the work of the office; actively seeks to apply technology to appropriate tasks; shows willingness to learn new technology.

Education

Advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in economics or related field. A first-level university degree in combination with at least two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Work Experience

A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in economic research and analysis, policy formulation, application of economic principles in international trade policy.

Languages

Fluency in English (both oral and written) and knowledge of French are required. Knowledge of another UN official language is an advantage.

Job summary