Economic Affairs Officer
Organizational Context
The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) aims to deliver transformative ideas and actions for Africa, guided by the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 2063. The Macroeconomic and Governance Division (MGD) supports African member states in accelerating economic transformation and inclusive growth through effective planning and improved macroeconomic management. This role is within the Finance and Domestic Resource Mobilization Section (FDRMS) of MGD, reporting to the Chief of FDRMS.
Job Purpose
The Economic Affairs Officer will contribute to ECA's mission by supporting African member states in their economic transformation and inclusive growth efforts. This involves developing socio-economic databases, interpreting economic and financial data, and analyzing policy options. The role includes drafting technical papers, attending international meetings, and preparing inputs for intergovernmental bodies. Additionally, the officer will assist in mobilizing resources for development activities, participate in technical cooperation missions, organize training seminars, and monitor project implementation. A key aspect is utilizing data visualization methods to enable data-driven planning, decision-making, and reporting, aligning with ECA's strategic directions for a transformed Africa.
Responsibilities
The Economic Affairs Officer will conduct economic and sector analysis by developing socio-economic databases and qualitative information, interpreting economic and financial intelligence tools to identify trends, and analyzing policy effects. Responsibilities include drafting technical papers and analytical studies on economic development and financial deepening, and analyzing relevant policy proposals. The role involves attending international meetings to gather information and engage with colleagues. Support for intergovernmental processes includes preparing inputs for reports and statements, and summarizing meeting outcomes. In technical cooperation, the officer will assist in resource mobilization, participate in development missions, organize training for national experts, prepare project documentation, and monitor project implementation. General duties include administrative tasks and undertaking training to enhance skills.
Work Experience
A minimum of five years of progressive experience in economic and financial research, analysis, policy formulation, or development program application is required. Experience in data analytics (2+ years), structuring debt/equity investments, understanding socio-economic development in capital markets (preferably in developing countries), and using financial market software (e.g., Bloomberg, S&P, Reuters) are desirable.
Skills
Professionalism, ability to apply economic theories, conduct independent research, develop data sources, analyze and interpret data, planning and organizing, and creativity are essential. Proficiency in data visualization for reporting and decision-making is also key.