Country Economist [Open to internal and external applicants]
Organizational Context
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has been active in India since 1951, working across human development sectors. The UNDP India Country Programme (2023-2027) focuses on strong institutions, enhanced economic opportunities, and climate-smart solutions. The Policy Unit leads research and advocacy on global goals and the national agenda, with a focus on environment, climate change, skills, and inclusive growth. This role is part of the Economist Network within the Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific (RBAP).
Job Purpose
The Country Economist plays a crucial role in enhancing policy support and capacity within UNDP India and the broader Asia-Pacific region. Reporting to the Resident Representative, the role involves integrating UNDP's activities to maximize development impact. This requires a keen awareness of the evolving development landscape, a strategic focus on impactful interventions, and the ability to connect diagnostics and solutions to practical implementation. The Economist will work collaboratively across teams and maintain a professional network with government, development partners, the private sector, and civil society to advance UNDP's mandate and contribute to renewed development momentum in a dynamic global environment. The position supports the country office's strategic goals through a portfolio approach, fostering horizontal collaboration and ensuring development interventions achieve the greatest possible impact.
Responsibilities
The Country Economist will advise UNDP Country Office management and programme teams on foresight analytics, systems thinking, and portfolio design, supporting the preparation and implementation of country programmes and strategies. This includes leading efforts on Development Finance Assessments and conceptualizing large-scale development solutions. The role involves providing technical expertise and global best practices to national and sub-national government counterparts and partners on sustainable and inclusive economic policies, aligning with the 2030 Agenda. Responsibilities also include advocating for UNDP's mandate, engaging with diverse partners, and contributing to resource mobilization strategies. Furthermore, the Economist will collaborate with the RBAP Economist Network and other country offices on regional analytical work, knowledge products, and programming offers, potentially acting as a regional thematic lead.
Work Experience
A minimum of 7 years of experience (with a Master's degree) or 9 years (with a Bachelor's degree) in economic research, policy, and implementation support at the national or international level is required. Extensive experience in research, policy-level analysis, advisory, and advocacy is essential. Experience in preparing high-quality policy briefs for senior policymakers is also required. Experience with SDGs, stakeholder engagement, statistical analysis software, and resource mobilization is desirable.
Skills
Core Competencies: Achieve Results, Think Innovatively, Learn Continuously, Adapt with Agility, Act with Determination, Engage and Partner, Enable Diversity and Inclusion. Cross-Functional & Technical Competencies: Inclusive Growth, Economic Diversification, Multidimensional poverty and human development, SDGs/National Development Strategy Planning and Budgeting, System Thinking, Partnerships Management, Portfolio Management.