Background Information – Jerusalem

 

Jerusalem Office – UNOPS Project Management and Infrastructure Centre of Excellence

Since the opening of the Jerusalem Office in 2006, UNOPS has significantly strengthened its operations in Palestine. Our expert knowledge, skills and management systems contribute to the sustainable development of public infrastructure in Gaza and the West Bank, including Area C and East Jerusalem.

 

Background Information – Job-specific

The OQ is seeking to recruit an Economist to undertake comprehensive economic analysis across multiple sectors including water, energy, telecommunications, and trade, with the objective to synthesize these analyses into a unified economic model that, amongst other purposes, helps predict future trajectories and supports the development of policy recommendations.

The Economist is expected to work with several key actors (Palestinian, Israeli, and international community members, e.g. World Bank, IMF, Ministries and Statistics offices.

The Economist will report to the Director of Economic Development, with a second reporting line to the DHoM, and work closely with the Head of Mission and across teams at the OQ, to advance the OQ agenda.

Functional Responsibilities

The role represents a senior position within the OQ, requiring exposure to a wide range of stakeholders in the political, technical and diplomatic communities. The role is expected to engage in programs central to the advancement of Palestinian economic and institutional development and empowerment, working within a challenging and rewarding environment.

The Economist will be responsible for,

1. Production of in-depth economic research and analysis in the water, energy, telecommunications, trade and fiscal sectors.
2. Develop an economic model that integrates insights from multiple sectors into a coherent framework.
3. Act as focal point and organize/oversee OQ economic research activities to ensure internal coherence and optimal delivery.

All the deliverables are to be reached in close coordination and cooperation with the wider OQ team. The work is of a highly confidential nature and the Economist must maintain the highest standards of confidentiality.

Working under the supervision of the D-ED/DHoM and in close collaboration with the other directors and teams, the Economist will be responsible for the following deliverables:

• Conduct in-depth economic research and analysis in the sectors of water, energy, telecommunications, trade and the fiscal files.
• Gather and interpret data, focusing on economic indicators and, sectoral performance.
• Develop a Palestinian economic model that integrates insights from multiple sectors into a coherent framework.
• Utilize econometric and statistical techniques to build predictive models across relevant sectors, e.g. trade.
• Prepare reports and presentations that summarize research findings and analysis.
• Assess the economic impact of sectoral policies and identify interlinkages between sectors.
• Support policy advocacy efforts with evidence-based research.
• Liaise with key stakeholders including government agencies, industry experts, and international partners to gather and promote data and analysis sharing, including collaboration around joint products where relevant.
• Enhance the analytical capabilities of the OQ teams through the introduction of new methodologies and tools.
• Prepare bespoke briefings and updates for HoM and D/HoM.
• Contribute to the integrated planning, action and strategy of the OQ.
• Work with and support other teams at the OQ to ensure a comprehensive and coordinated approach to multi-sector issues.

 

Education/Experience/Language requirements

Education:

• Advanced degree (Masters or PhD) is preferable in economics or related field.
• A bachelor’s degree in combination with two additional years of relevant professional experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.

Work Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience in economic analysis and modeling, preferably within the sectors of water, energy, telecommunications, or trade.
• Proven expertise in econometric modeling and data analysis is required.
• A good understanding of economic policy and its impact on different sectors is required.
• Excellent communication skills, including a demonstrated ability to both write and present high-quality written documents/presentations and key concepts in English is required.
• Prior work with international development/policy organization an advantage.
• Knowledge and understanding of the intricacies of international relations and diplomacy is highly desirable.
• Experience in the region and/or regarding the Israeli/Palestinian conflict is an advantage.

 

Competencies

 

Develops and implements sustainable business strategies, thinks long term and externally in order to positively shape the organization. Anticipates and perceives the impact and implications of future decisions and activities on other parts of the organization.(for levels IICA-2, IICA-3, LICA Specialist- 10, LICA Specialist-11, NOC, NOD, P3, P4 and above)

Treats all individuals with respect; responds sensitively to differences and encourages others to do the same. Upholds organizational and ethical norms. Maintains high standards of trustworthiness. Role model for diversity and inclusion.

Acts as a positive role model contributing to the team spirit. Collaborates and supports the development of others. For people managers only: Acts as positive leadership role model, motivates, directs and inspires others to succeed, utilizing appropriate leadership styles.

Demonstrates understanding of the impact of own role on all partners and always puts the end beneficiary first. Builds and maintains strong external relationships and is a competent partner for others (if relevant to the role).

Efficiently establishes an appropriate course of action for self and/or others to accomplish a goal. Actions lead to total task accomplishment through concern for quality in all areas. Sees opportunities and takes the initiative to act on them. Understands that responsible use of resources maximizes our impact on our beneficiaries.

Open to change and flexible in a fast paced environment. Effectively adapts own approach to suit changing circumstances or requirements. Reflects on experiences and modifies own behavior. Performance is consistent, even under pressure. Always pursues continuous improvements.

Evaluates data and courses of action to reach logical, pragmatic decisions. Takes an unbiased, rational approach with calculated risks. Applies innovation and creativity to problem-solving.

Expresses ideas or facts in a clear, concise and open manner. Communication indicates a consideration for the feelings and needs of others. Actively listens and proactively shares knowledge. Handles conflict effectively, by overcoming differences of opinion and finding common ground.

 

Contract type, level and duration

 

Contract type: Full time tendersglobal.net National and International Individual Contractor Agreement.

Contract level: ICS 10 (for Nationals LICA 10 , for international IICA 2)

Contract duration: 12 months with the intention for extension.

This job is open for both nationals and internationals

For more details about the ICA contractual modality, please follow this link:
https://www.unops.org/english/Opportunities/job-opportunities/what-we-offer/Pages/Individual-Contractor-Agreements.aspx

Additional Information

 

• Please note that UNOPS does not accept unsolicited resumes.
• Applications received after the closing date will not be considered.
• Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process, which involves various assessments.
• UNOPS embraces diversity and is committed to equal employment opportunity. Our workforce consists of many diverse nationalities, cultures, languages, races, gender identities, sexual orientations, and abilities. UNOPS seeks to sustain and strengthen this diversity to ensure equal opportunities as well as an inclusive working environment for its entire workforce.
• Qualified women and candidates from groups which are underrepresented in the UNOPS workforce are encouraged to apply. These include in particular candidates from racialized and/or indigenous groups, members of minority gender identities and sexual orientations, and people with disabilities.
• We would like to ensure all candidates perform at their best during the assessment process. If you are shortlisted and require additional assistance to complete any assessment, including reasonable accommodation, please inform our human resources team when you receive an invitation.

Terms and Conditions

• For staff positions only, UNOPS reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a lower level than the advertised level of the post.
• For retainer contracts, you must complete a few Mandatory Courses (they take around 4 hours to complete) in your own time, before providing services to UNOPS. For more information on a retainer contract here.
• All UNOPS personnel are responsible for performing their duties in accordance with the UN Charter and UNOPS Policies and Instructions, as well as other relevant accountability frameworks. In addition, all personnel must demonstrate an understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in a manner consistent with UN core values and the UN Common Agenda.
• It is the policy of UNOPS to conduct background checks on all potential personnel. Recruitment in UNOPS is contingent on the results of such checks.