FIRST ECONOMIC AFFAIRS OFFICER (MDGs) - United Nations, Lebanon, Deadline: February-28-2012

Job Title:  FIRST ECONOMIC AFFAIRS OFFICER (MDGs), P4 
Department/ Office:  Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia 
Duty Station:  BEIRUT 
Posting Period:  30 December 2011-28 February 2012 
Job Opening number:  11-ECO-ESCWA-22350-R-BEIRUT (R) 

This post is located in the Development Policy Section, Economic Development and Globalization Division (EDGD) of the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA). The First Economic Affairs Officer reports directly to the Chief, Development Policy Section and will be under the overall supervision of the Director of EDGD.
		Responsibilities
	The incumbent will be responsible for carrying out the following: 1- Monitor economic developments on issues relating to Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and identify recurrent and emerging issues of concern to the ESCWA Region; 2- Propose, design and carry out substantive, analytical and policy research related to the attainment of the MDGs in the ESCWA member countries in relation to macroeconomic policy challenges, inclusive development for the attainment of MDGs; 3- Prepare the League of Arab States (LAS)- United Nations (UN) joint regional report on the attainment of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in the Arab Region and organize related Experts Group Meetings; 4- Develop MDGs and poverty reduction research agenda to enhance ESCWA's reputation as a think tank; 5- Design and conduct studies of selected issues in economic development addressing constraints that impede the progress toward reducing inequality in the ESCWA region and draft resulting reports; 6- Interpret and apply results of MDG-based econometric modeling to analyze of economic prospects and policies in order to enhance the empirical work that is the core of the division's flagship publications; 7- Develop MDG and poverty reduction based policy recommendations; 8- Formulate proposals for development strategies, policies and measures relating to the MDGs for presentation to intergovernmental bodies; 9- Attend international, regional, and national meetings to hold discussions with representatives of other institutions; 10- Organize expert group meetings, seminars, capacity development opportunities etc. on development issues; 11- Provide substantive and administrative assistance and advice on other matters to the Chief of Development Policy Section; 12- Perform other related duties as required.
		Competencies
	Professionalism - Ability to apply economic theories to conduct independent research, determine suitability, validity and accuracy of data provided by different sources; ability to identify and develop sources for data collection; 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; strong quantitative skills and demonstrated capacity to perform research macro econometric analysis. Planning and 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.  Teamwork - Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others' ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.
		Education
	Advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in economics with specialisation in development economics and applied econometrics or related field. A first-level university degree in addition to 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 on development issues with macroeconomic focus, applied policy analysis and formulation. Application of economic principles in development programmes and for situation of economic problems especially as they relate to the MDGs. Work experience in developing countries is desirable, preferably in Western Asia.
		Languages
	English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Arabic is also a working language of ESCWA. For the post advertised, fluency in written and spoken English is required. Knowledge of Arabic is an advantage.
		Assessment Method
	Candidates will undergo a substantive assessment and a competency-based interview.  Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
		Special Notice
	Staff members are subject to the authority of the Secretary-General and to assignment by him or her. In this context, all staff are expected to move periodically to new functions in their careers In accordance with established rules and procedures.
		United Nations Considerations
	The United Nations shall place no restrictions on the eligibility of men and women to participate in any capacity and under conditions of equality in its principal and subsidiary organs. (Charter of the United Nations - Chapter 3, article 8). The United Nations Secretariat is a non-smoking environment.   See original posting at  Click here