UNDP Vacancies for NATIONAL ECONOMIST

Location  : Abuja, NIGERIA Application Deadline  : 02-Aug-09 Type of Contract  : FTA Local Post Level : NO-C (National Officer) Languages Required  : English   Starting Date  : (date when the selected canditate is expected to start) 31-Aug-2009 Duration of Initial Contract  : One year (renewable) Expected Duration of Assignment  : Renewable   Background Under the overall guidance of RR/RC and direct supervision of EA, 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 UNDP projects and programmes.  The National Economist maintains a network with colleagues from UNDP, 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 UNDP management on economic and development issues Advise and facilitate knowledge building on economic and development issues Create strategic partnerships and relationship building among UNDP's clients Advocate and  promote UNDP's mandates and mission Provides advice and strategic support to UNDP management, programmes and projects focusing on achievement of the following results: Compilation, periodic analysis and interpretation of economic and statistical data, thorough 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 UNDP programmes and projects for aligning UNDP programmes with national policies and priorities. Analysis of economic environment and synthesis of proposals on possible areas for UNDP support to ensure that UNDP programmes are in line with national policies and priorities and are strategically positioned. Production and launch of economic reports, UNDP analytical and advocacy reports such as National Human Development Reports (NHDRs) and the Millennium Development Goals Reports (MDGRs). Provides advice to UNDP 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. Ensures creation of strategic partnerships and relationship building among UNDP clients focusing on achievement of the following results: Supporting UNDP in its aid harmonization and coordination. Assist UNDP 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 UNDP officials and consultative meetings. Facilitating and coordinating strategic missions within and outside the country. Advocacy and promotion of awareness of UNDP'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. Impact of Results The key results of the post are to strengthen UNDP's contributions to the national policy dialogue and enhance the policy impact of UNDP programmes and projects. In particular, the key results have an impact on the design of programmes and increases visibility of UNDP in the discussion about economic policies and analysis. Competencies Competencies and Critical Success Factors Corporate Competencies: Demonstrates integrity by modeling the UN's values and ethical standards Promotes the vision, mission, and strategic goals of UNDP Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability Treats all people fairly without favoritism Functional Competencies: Kowledge Management and Learning Shares knowledge and experience and contributes to UNDP 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 UNDP'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:  A Masters Degree in Economics or a related discpline. Experience:  At least 5 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. Click here to apply online