FIRST ECONOMIC AFFAIRS OFFICER (Regional Integration) - United Nations, Lebanon, Deadline: March-03-2012

Job Title:  FIRST ECONOMIC AFFAIRS OFFICER (Regional Integration), P4 
Department/ Office:  Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia 
Duty Station:  BEIRUT 
Posting Period:  3 January 2012-3 March 2012 
Job Opening number:  12-ECO-ESCWA-22387-R-BEIRUT (R) 

This post is located in the Regional Integration 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 of the Regional Integration Section and will be under the general supervision of the Director EDGD.
		Responsibilities
	The incumbent will be responsible for carrying out the following: 1- Monitor and analyse regional and international trends in trade, and their implications on regional integration of ESCWA member countries,  trade facilitation, market access and trade policies; 2- Prepare technical papers/reports on issues pertaining to the negotiations and implementation of the relevant regional trade agreements and their compatibility with the multilateral trading system ; 3- Provide technical assistance to ESCWA member countries on implementation of regional trade agreements and WTO issues; 4- Advise the Chief of Regional Integration Section in programme planning, monitoring and evaluation of substantive activities and contribute to the continuous improvements of programme design in analytical and normative activities concerning trade policies activities within the programme of work; 5- Provide substantive support to meetings and seminars, proposing agenda topics, identifying participants, preparing documents and presentations; 6- Provide substantive and administrative assistance and advice on other matters to the Chief of Regional Integration Section; 7- Develop draft policy recommendations pertaining to area of work; 8- Formulate proposals for development strategies, policies and measures for presentations to intergovernmental bodies and others; 9- Provide substantive support on economic issues to intergovernmental bodies (such as the General Assembly, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the Economic and Social Council, the Trade and Development Board, the regional commissions and the subsidiary bodies of each); 10- Prepare speeches and other inputs for presentations by senior staff; 11- Design and monitor technical cooperation projects; 12- Perform other related duties as required.
		Competencies
	Professionalism - Ability to apply economic theories and concepts in different sectors of economic and sustainable development. Ability to conduct independent research on economic topics, 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. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work; good command of econometric and other quantitative modeling techniques; proven ability to produce and maintain qualitative and quantitative economic databases. Knowledge of computer applications, particularly statistical and data processing tools; and advanced knowledge of statistical and econometric packages for quantitative economic analysis such as E-views, STATA, SAS is desirable. 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, Development Economics, International Trade 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 relevant experience in economic research and analysis, trade policy formulation, application of economic principles in international trade is required. Work experience in WTO negotiations and trade agreements is desirable.
		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