Statistician

United Nations
Geneva - Switzerland
S: Competitive

Org. Setting and Reporting
This position is located in the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, Division on Globalization and Development Strategies, Development Statistics and Information Branch. The Statistician will report to the Head of the Branch.

Responsibilities
Within delegated authority, the incumbent will be responsible for the following duties:

• Coordinates and supervises the development of a macro-modellers database, ensures appropriate methods and systems are developed to obtain relevant data, corrects errors and imputes/estimates missing data.
•Coordinates the development and publication of new UNCTAD statistical indicators. Ensures the quality of collected/derived data for accuracy, consistency and comparability.
•Plans and conducts analytical programmes of work in relevant areas of statistics. This may include: identifying projects, conducting analysis and participating in technical advisory activities for national capacity building.
•Supervises and contributes to the development of relevant databases, web publishing tools (e.g. web portal to support Sustainable Development Goal and Financing for Development initiatives) and other software for collection, storage and distribution of statistical data.
•Undertakes methodological research with regard to standards on concepts, definitions and classifications to assist countries and other constituents in strengthening their statistical development.
•Develops new or improved statistical methods, quantitative models for analyses and projections and conceptual statistical frameworks.
•Provides guidance and advice to other departments, field experts, etc., in the planning, operation and evaluation of statistical programmes and projects.
•Plans and coordinates seminars, workshops, expert meetings and other activities.
•Plans, organizes, manages and supervises the work of the section assigned.
•Performs other duties as assigned.

Competencies
•PROFESSIONALISM: Ability to demonstrate sound knowledge of statistics, economics, modelling and statistical programming (e.g. SAS, R) and ability to analyse and evaluate complex data. Ability to write complex reports and papers to publication standard. Understanding of technical complexities of SDG/FFD indicators. Ability to formulate new strategies and technical approaches with respect to statistical development (e.g. trade related issues including Global Value Chains). 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.

Education
Advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in statistics, mathematics, economics, sociology or related field. A first-level university degree in combination with 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 the collection, compilation, analysis and dissemination of statistical data or related area.

Languages
Fluency in one of the working languages of the UN Secretariat, English or French is required; knowledge of the other is desirable. Knowledge of another UN official language is also desirable.

Job summary