Economist
Organizational Context
The UN Resident Coordinator Offices (UN RCO), part of a global reform launched in 2019, support countries in achieving development priorities and SDGs under empowered UN Resident Coordinators. This role is within the UN RCO in Asuncion, Paraguay, supervised by the Head of RCO, with functional links to the SDG Policy and Financing Section. The position supports the UN 2.0 shift, focusing on data, digital, innovation, and foresight.
Job Purpose
This Economist role supports the UN Resident Coordinator Office (RCO) in Asuncion, Paraguay, by providing substantive economic analysis and evidence-based advice on sustainable development, economic transformation, and SDG financing. The purpose is to assist the UN Country Team (UNCT) in identifying challenges and opportunities for accelerating SDG progress. The role involves interpreting economic and development data, translating it into policy options, and supporting the UN's programming cycle, partnerships, and knowledge management efforts. It contributes to the UN's strategic shift towards data-driven, innovative approaches to development cooperation, ensuring alignment with global and national priorities.
Responsibilities
The Economist provides substantive economic analysis and evidence-based advice on sustainable development, economic transformation, and SDG financing. Key duties include researching and analyzing economic and social data, identifying trends, and developing policy options to support the UN Country Team (UNCT) in achieving SDGs. The role involves supporting the implementation of global guidelines, preparing analytical reports, and monitoring economic developments. Additionally, the Economist fosters partnerships with national counterparts and stakeholders, including government, IFIs, and the private sector, on economic transformation and financing matters. The position also contributes significantly to the UN sustainable development programming cycle, including the UN Country Analysis and Cooperation Framework, and supports knowledge management and learning initiatives related to economic transformation and SDG financing.
Work Experience
A minimum of five years of progressive experience in economic research, macroeconomic/socioeconomic policy, or development economics is required. Experience in economic/policy analysis, translating data into policy recommendations, and supporting sustainable development priorities with diverse stakeholders is essential. Experience in SDG financing, strategic planning, and applying inclusive approaches is desirable.
Skills
Professionalism in applying sustainable development theories, conducting research and analysis, and interpreting data. Accountability for responsibilities and commitments. Client orientation in establishing and maintaining productive partnerships. Strong analytical and evaluative skills. Ability to conduct data collection and analysis. Proficiency in using research sources and databases. Ability to convey information to management. Commitment to professional competence and results. Incorporating gender perspectives.