Regional Adviser on Poverty Reduction Strategies, L-5
ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL POLICY DIVISION
DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS: 20 June 2003
DATE OF ISSUANCE: 20 May 2003
ORGANIZATIONAL UNIT: Economic Commission for Africa
DUTY STATION: Addis Ababa
VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT NUMBER: ECA/ESPD/PRS/2003

REMUNERATION:

Depending on professional background, experience, and family situation, a competitive compensation and benefits package is offered.

Under the supervision of the Director, Economic and Social Policy Division, the Regional Adviser on Poverty Reduction Strategies will focus on country-wide and cross-sectoral issues in the area of poverty reduction. The Regional Advisor will provide cutting-edge, evidence-based, policy advice that is relevant to the practical needs of member states. Poverty reduction is understood broadly, in terms of providing the wherewithal to fully participate in societies in which we live: it encompasses increasing consumption, providing employment opportunities, reducing food insecurity, improving economic management, improving health outcomes and enhancing education achievement.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Respond to demand for advice from member states on Poverty Reduction Strategies or other national development strategies.

2. Help governments develop poverty assessments and profiles, particularly in the context of child poverty as well as ways to monitor and evaluate poverty reduction programs such as the Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility (PRGF).

3. Help governments conduct poverty and social impact analysis of economic policies with particular emphasis on job creation and labor markets.

4. Provide strategic direction within the division by leading efforts to identify and fill knowledge gaps---at both the regional and country level---required for effective poverty reduction.

5. Build capacity for poverty reduction in member states and regional organizations and disseminate best practices by conducting workshops.

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION:

Advanced degree, preferably a PhD, in economics or related field.

WORK EXPERIENCE:

Extensive relevant professional experience required in the application of principles and concepts of economics in a wide variety of areas related to poverty reduction and economic development. Facility with modern techniques of analyzing economic phenomena required. This background may have been gained in activities such as national policy planning, research, academic teaching or related work. Experience in the context of Africa highly desirable. Record of publications required.

TECHNICAL SKILLS:

Understanding of economic theories and experience in applying economic principles to poverty reduction and economic development. Ability to: use quantitative methods of economic research and analysis; draw policy implications, propose options and make recommendations; and advocate for policy and programme initiatives to governments and other bodies. Proficiency in computer systems, including word processing, data base management and Internet required; knowledge of spreadsheet and statistical packages required. Proven abilities to: prepare written materials in a clear, concise and compelling manner; and communicate orally in an effective manner.

ESSENTIAL MANAGERIAL COMPETENCIES:

Leadership, supervision, programme and performance management, and judgement/decision making.

Instructions for Sending Applications

1. Applications must be sent, preferably by email, but alternatively by fax. If sending electronically, include the cover letter and CV/resume as attached documents in Microsoft Word to ecarecruitment@uneca.org. If sending by fax, ensure that the cover letter and CV/resume are typed and submitted on white, standard size paper (A4 or 8 1/2 x 11) with clear contrasting text to (251-1) 52-1634.

2. Send one complete application, including cover letter and CV/resume. Ensure that the Vacancy Announcement number and the title of the position are stated in the cover letter. Applications received elsewhere or by third parties will not be accepted.

3. Acknowledgement of receipt of application will be transmitted either by return e-mail or by fax, depending on how the application was sent to ECA. Further communication will be sent only to those external candidates under serious consideration.

PLEASE NOTE THAT APPLICATIONS RECEIVED AFTER THE DEADLINE WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.