National Economist, Abuja

Closing Date: Friday, 22 July 2011

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Background
Under the overall guidance of RR/RC and direct supervision of Economic Advisor, the National Economist advises Senior Management on macro-economic policies and trends and relevant linkages to UNDP programmes. The National Economist provides analysis for formulation of strategies and briefings to Senior Management. The National Economist works with Government and counterparts to identify alternative macro-economic policy options and to enhance the policy impact of projects and programmes.
The National Economist maintains a network with colleagues from , UN agencies, IFIs, Government officials (state and federal), multilateral and bilateral donors and civil society organizations.
Duties and Responsibilities
Summary of key functions:

• Advise and support to management on economic and development issues
• Advise and facilitate knowledge building on economic and development issues
• Create strategic partnerships and relationship building among 's clients
• Advocate and promote 's mandates and mission

1. Provides advice and strategic support to management, programmes and projects focusing on achievement of the following results:

• Compilation, periodic analysis and interpretation of economic and statistical data, through research of the economic and development issues in the country and production of relevant reports aimed at promoting pro poor economic growth and sustainable human development.
• Provision of analysis and substantive inputs to CCA, UNDAF, CPD, CPAP, AWP and other strategic documents.
• Provision of economic inputs to all relevant programmes and projects for aligning programmes with national policies and priorities.
• Analysis of economic environment and synthesis of proposals on possible areas for support to ensure that programmes are in line with national policies and priorities and are strategically positioned.
• Production and launch of economic reports, analytical and advocacy reports such as National Human Development Reports (NHDRs) and the Millennium Development Goals Reports (MDGRs).

2. Provides advice to and counterparts and facilitation of knowledge building focusing on achievement of the following results:

• Analysis of the country's macro-economic policies and their impact on poverty reduction, growth, equity, etc.
• Sound contributions to knowledge networks and communities of practice through identification of best practices and lessons learned.
• Support to the management of the office in facilitation of policy dialogue on economic issues with the Government, private sector, civil society and donors/development partners
• Provision of capacity building support on economic issues to office staff
• Participation in fiscal policy management capacity building initiative of the CO.

3. Ensures creation of strategic partnerships and relationship building among clients focusing on achievement of the following results:

• Supporting in its aid harmonization and coordination.
• Assist in preparing analytical papers and documentations for donor/development partners and consultative meetings.
• Analyse information and conduct research on donors; preparation of substantive briefs on possible areas of cooperation.
• Assist in creation of strategic partnerships by preparing notes, speeches and statements for officials and consultative meetings.
• Facilitating and coordinating strategic missions within and outside the country.

4. Advocacy and promotion of awareness of 's mandate and mission focusing on achievement of the following results:

• Advocacy for the Millennium Development Goals, Human Development and pro poor economic growth by participating in relevant forums, conferences and trainings.
• Support to monitoring progress and formulation of strategies towards the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals.
• Contribution to national development planning and national strategic documents.
• Management of events and publications on economic issues.

Competencies
Corporate Competencies:

• Demonstrates integrity by modeling the UN's values and ethical standards
• Promotes the vision, mission, and strategic goals of
• Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability
• Treats all people fairly without favoritism

Functional Competencies:
Knowledge Management and Learning

• Shares knowledge and experience and contributes to Practice Areas and actively works towards continuing personal learning and development
• Ability to provide top quality policy advice services on economic issues
• In-depth practical knowledge of inter-disciplinary development issues

Development and Operational Effectiveness

• Good knowledge of economics and current development issues particularly those pertinent to 's Practice Areas.
• Ability to analyze data, apply conceptual models and policy frameworks.
• Ability to lead formulation and evaluation of development programmes and projects
• Ability to apply economic theory to the specific country context, carry out high-quality economic research.

Management and Leadership

• Focuses on impact and result for the client and responds positively to critical feedback
• Encourages risk-taking in the pursuit of creativity and innovation
• Leads teams effectively and shows conflict resolution skills
• Consistently approaches work with energy and a positive, constructive attitude
• Demonstrates strong oral and written communication skills
• Builds strong relationships with clients and external actors

Required Skills and Experience
Education:

• At least a Masters Degree in Economics.

Experience:

• At least 10 years of relevant experience at the national level. Regional and International experience is an added advantage. Cognate experience in economic policy research and analysis.
• Some experience in design, monitoring and evaluation of development projects. Sound macroeconomic and modeling background is also required.
• Experience in the usage of computers and office software packages, experience in handling of web-based management systems and advanced programmes for statistical and data analysis.

Language Requirements:

• Fluency in English (both written and spoken). Ability to communicate at least one national language.

Interested Candidates should apply online through the website by clicking on the Apply now button. The system will prompt you to upload a CV on the next page.
Please note that instead of a CV you're required to download the Personnel History Form (P11) from the following link http://sas.undp.org/Documents/P11_Personal_history_form.doc Complete it and upload when prompted.
Applications without a fully completed P11 form will not be considered. Only applicants that are shortlisted will be contacted.
The system will only allow for one attachement.
is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.
is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.