Economist - Development Strategy [open To Internal And External Applicants]

Organizational Context

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization focused on sustainable development and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Inclusive Growth Team (IGT) at the Bangkok Regional Hub supports countries in Asia and the Pacific by analyzing economic challenges, improving development strategies, and strengthening institutional capacities for inclusive and sustainable growth. This role is part of the Building Opportunities for Leadership in Development (BOLD) initiative.

Job Purpose

This Economist role supports the Inclusive Growth Team at the UNDP Bangkok Regional Hub, contributing to the Building Opportunities for Leadership in Development (BOLD) initiative. The purpose is to provide high-level economic analysis and policy advice to governments and UNDP Country Offices across Asia and the Pacific. The role will focus on areas such as economic growth, structural transformation, labour markets, productivity, and inequality. By conducting in-depth diagnostics and developing evidence-based strategies, the Economist will help strengthen institutional capacities for inclusive and sustainable development, ultimately contributing to the achievement of the SDGs and fostering forward-leaning reform pathways for partner countries.

Responsibilities

Conduct comprehensive analytical assessments on economic growth, structural transformation, jobs and labour market trends, productivity, and inequality using quantitative and qualitative methods. Develop growth and inclusion models, perform microdata analysis, and conduct sectoral assessments to inform government strategies. Prepare technical papers, policy briefs, and background notes for senior economists and government counterparts, and contribute to regional knowledge products. Provide technical inputs for high-level policy dialogues and support Country Offices in delivering BOLD analytical work, including economic diagnostics and capability assessments. Assist in preparing presentations and evidence packs for government engagements and participate in technical missions. Contribute to the planning, monitoring, and delivery of BOLD activities, providing analytical and reporting inputs for donor updates and project documentation. Coordinate with various stakeholders to ensure analytic consistency and quality, and support knowledge management by documenting methodologies and experiences.

Work Experience

A minimum of 7 years of relevant professional experience in applied economic analysis, economic research, or development policy is required with a Master's degree, or 9 years with a Bachelor's degree. Experience in conducting growth diagnostics, labour market analysis, or inclusion/inequality assessments, along with quantitative analysis and working with governments or international organizations, is essential.

Skills

Strong analytical skills in economic growth, structural transformation, labour markets, productivity, and inequality. Proficiency in quantitative and qualitative analysis, microdata analysis, and economic modelling. Experience in policy advice and working with governments and international organizations. Excellent communication and report writing skills. Familiarity with development challenges in Asia and the Pacific is desirable.

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