Economic Adviser - Economic Affairs Division

Reference: 130600477
Location: London, UK | Salary: £69,333 per annum
Duration: 6 Months
Closing Date: 28 Jun 2013

Job summary

Reporting to the Head of the International Trade and Regional Co-operation Section, the Economic Adviser will conduct the monitoring and analysis of trade developments and the formulation of advice and recommendations to benefit member governments. 

The post holder will:

• Monitor, analyse and report on those multilateral and regional trade negotiations, decision making processes and other related developments that are particularly relevant to Commonwealth LDCs, small states and other developing country members;
• Undertake technical and analytical policy research on designated trade issues and assist in the production of high quality proposals, briefs, studies etc that enhance the understanding of Commonwealth developing countries’ interests and concerns in the multilateral trading system and contribute to the international consensus-building;
• Work with and provide advice to member governments and regional organisations on strategies, and programmes for the more effective and beneficial participation of LDCs, small economies and other vulnerable Commonwealth States in the global trade and economic system;
• Prepare and/or as required, contribute to the preparation and delivery of written  reports, papers and briefings and make oral presentations; and prepare and contribute to the speeches and briefs for Managers;
• Coordinate and assist in substantive preparations for and servicing of Commonwealth meetings, workshops and seminars organised by the Economic Affairs Division:
• Assist in selection of external experts for providing identified inputs on technical assistance projects, and monitor and evaluate, vet and edit their work;
• Represents the Section and organisation at internal and external meetings, conferences, seminars and workshops as and when required;
• Performs any other duties as may be required from time to time by the Head of Section or the Director. 

Qualifications and Work Experience

• A Post-Graduate degree in Economics or relevant Post-Graduate degree with strong Economic components
• Desirable: PhD in Economics or relevant field
• At least 7 years’ experience in the areas of trade policy formulation and management and experience in managing technical assistance projects or extensive research in those areas using quantitative techniques; familiarity with WTO rules and functioning of the global trading system.

About the Economic Affairs Division

The Economic Affairs Division is responsible for the Secretariat’s programmes on national and international economic issues and, with other divisions, for assisting member countries to improve economic policy-making, management and governance. The Division plays a key role in helping to identify solutions to the economic problems affecting Commonwealth developing countries; in achieving an international consensus on these solutions through analytical/ diagnostic work and advocacy; and in providing policy advice to governments. Practical assistance for economic development is a core Secretariat activity and a high priority for governments.

The International Trade and Regional Co-operation Section undertakes work directed towards: promoting common policy approaches and actions that aim at fostering multilateral trade, taking account of the special requirements of developing member countries;  enhancing member governments’ capacity to adapt and develop trade policies in tune with changes in the international trade system;  helping institutions in member countries to formulate and implement trade and development policies for export of goods and services; helping member countries and stakeholders assess the implications for emerging developments in regional and multilateral trade; prompting effective national and regional strategies and approaches to trade co-operation;  and providing policy advice and other forms of assistance with regards to regional integration involving Commonwealth countries.  The Section’s activities include support to enhance the effectiveness of its developing country members in international and regional trading systems and facilitating dialogue and international consensus-building in support of the adoption of pro-development positions and policies that accommodate national priorities. In addition, it contributes to the Division’s work on general development issues.

Further Information

How to apply

Apply online

Job Description for Economic Adviser - Economic Affairs Division